Bryan presses for energy, healthcare, and economic growth at federal IGIA session

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. (D) of the United States Virgin Islands joined federal officials and territorial leaders in Washington for the United States Department of the Interior’s Interagency Group on Insular Areas (IGIA) Mid-Year Plenary Session, where he urged stronger partnerships on energy, economic growth, and healthcare equity.

Bryan emphasized that the Virgin Islands plays a critical role in national defense. “President Trump has a willing partner in the United States Virgin Islands,” Bryan said. “Our economic and energy stability go hand in hand with America’s national security.”

Central to his message was the future of the Port Hamilton refinery on St. Croix. Idle for years, the refinery could generate more than $400 million annually, $45 million in government revenue, and create more than 400 jobs. “With the right federal partnership, Port Hamilton can be more than a refinery,” Bryan said. “It can become a model for clean and innovative energy development that powers growth here at home and strengthens America’s energy supply.”

He also pointed to renewable energy as a priority, highlighting the Solar for All program, which will bring panels and battery storage to 4,300 households. “One thing we have in abundance in the Virgin Islands is sunshine,” Bryan said. “This resource can lower costs for families and make our energy system more reliable. We must make sure these funds are put to work where they are needed most.”

Healthcare equity was another focus. Bryan called for an end to Medicaid caps and outdated Medicare reimbursement schedules that have disadvantaged US Virgin Islanders for decades. He also urged greater territorial collaboration on electronic health records and technology investments. “Together, the territories can affordably and sustainably implement best-in-class technologies to improve healthcare delivery and align with federal mandates,” he said.

Bryan closed by thanking the Trump administration and the 119th Congress for permanently extending the rum cover-over, calling it a “major victory for the Virgin Islands economy,” and urging similar commitments for energy, infrastructure, and healthcare. “When America invests in its territories, it invests in its own security and prosperity,” he said.