Government said it has officially brought the Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024 into force, which it says strengthen the legal framework for delivering social support to the most vulnerable.
The release said the Notice, made by the Minister for Health and Social Development and published in the Virgin Islands Gazette on 31 August 2025, appointed 1 September 2025 as the commencement date.
It says the Act introduces important reforms designed to improve the efficiency, fairness, and accessibility of the Public Assistance Programme.
Minister for Health and Social Development Vincent Wheatley, said the amendments reflect the Government’s commitment to modernising social protection.
According to Minister Wheatley said, “This Act represents a significant step toward ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most in a timely and transparent manner.
He said it modernises their approach to social protection, making sure the system is more responsive to today’s realities and more accountable to the people they serve.”
And Permanent Secretary Tasha Bertie, added that the reforms are also about improving the client experience.
Bertie noted that with these amendments, they are moving toward a more streamlined, people-centred system, adding, “Applicants will benefit from clearer processes, stronger safeguards, and greater support as they navigate the programme.
Their aim is to build a safety net that is both compassionate and effective.”
Bertie said the ministry will continue to update the public on the implementation of the new measures and provide guidance on how to access assistance under the revised framework, including guidance on eligibility thresholds, categories of support and the appeals process.