TORTOLA, BVI – The Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024 has been assented to by His Excellency the Governor, Daniel Pruce, modernizing the 2013 legislation to provide more inclusive and effective support.
“This landmark update redefines eligibility, expands available programs, and enhances transparency, reflecting a strong commitment to the well-being of the Territory’s most vulnerable,” said the government of the BVI. “The 2024 Amendment introduces the concept of the benefit unit to recognize diverse household arrangements, including single individuals, couples, and families with dependent children. This inclusive approach ensures public assistance caters to the unique needs of modern households.”
Key definitions, such as child, dependent, and disability, have been updated to align with societal norms, enhancing clarity and ensuring that the legislation remains relevant to current realities.
“To improve eligibility assessments, the Act introduces clear income thresholds based on a “minimum expenditure model,” which calculates the cost of essential goods and services needed for basic survival. This ensures that assistance is effectively targeted to individuals and families whose incomes fall short of meeting their basic needs.”
The Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024 broadens the range of support available by introducing both financial and non-financial forms of assistance.
Minister for health and social development, Vincent O. Wheatley noted that these additions aim to empower beneficiaries with skills and resources to improve their self-sufficiency and overall well-being.
“We have introduced several non-financial assistance options, such as counselling support, vocational training, job placement services, child protection, temporary housing or shelter assistance, and a host of others. These additions provide beneficiaries with the tools they need to improve their quality of life and become more self-reliant,” Wheatley said.
In addition to non-financial support, the 2024 Amendment establishes shock response grants for disaster recovery and hardship allowances to address unexpected crises, such as urgent medical care, temporary housing, and support for individuals fleeing domestic abuse. The amendment also introduces basic income grants, which include both long-term and short-term grants for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers, ensuring a consistent safety net for those unable to sustain themselves due to age, health conditions, or caregiving responsibilities.
For residents in government-operated facilities, such as hospitals or nursing homes, financial assistance will be adjusted to account for reduced living expenses. This provision ensures fair allocation of resources while meeting the essential needs of all beneficiaries.
Permanent secretary in the ministry of health and social development, Tasha Bertie, said:
“Current beneficiaries should be aware of the new re-assessment process introduced by the Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024. This re-assessment will ensure that all individuals receiving assistance meet the updated eligibility criteria and receive the most suitable support for their circumstances.”
The permanent secretary added: “A clear appeals process has also been established, allowing applicants and current beneficiaries to challenge decisions regarding assistance. Formal hearings will be conducted to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in decision-making. Beneficiaries are encouraged to participate actively in this process to ensure their needs are fully met.”
To enhance the delivery of public assistance, the public assistance committee has been granted new powers, including overseeing program implementation, monitoring performance, and forming subcommittees to address challenges. This ensures efficient operations and adaptability in addressing community needs.
The Act also introduces a Social Protection Management Information System, a centralized database that streamlines application management, improves record-keeping, and enhances transparency. Additionally, new regulations align with modern data protection standards, safeguarding the sensitive information of applicants and beneficiaries.
“These amendments underscore the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Virgin Islands residents. By broadening eligibility criteria, introducing innovative assistance programs, and strengthening administrative oversight, the Public Assistance (Amendment) Act 2024, sets a robust foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable social protection system.”
The government of the Virgin Islands said: “The ministry of health and social development remains committed to improving the health and social well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands, and encourages residents to learn more about these changes and engage with the Public Assistance Program to ensure they receive the support they need.”
Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024
