Good day. 
I am here today to testify on Bill 36-0250, which seeks to amend Title 3 Virgin Islands 
Code, Chapter 27, Section 717, Subsection (c).  This amendment would insert language 
to ensure that the Government Employees’ Retirement System “shall not reduce, revoke, 
or otherwise alter a member’s service resulting from a default or delinquency on any loan 
or financial obligation made through or administered by the System.  Nothing in this 
subsection shall prohibit the System from collection of outstanding debts through lawful 
means, provided such actions shall not alter the member’s service.  Service shall reflect 
the actual duration of government employment.” 
This legislation arose out of a situation brought to the attention of Senator Marise James 
by a constituent that she, in turn, brought to my attention.  Subsequently, I discontinued 
an existing practice within the GERS that prevented members who are no longer 
employed by the government (or its agencies) from restoring contributions that were 
previously deducted to payoff delinquent loan obligations to the GERS.  This 
discontinued past practice could have, effectively, resulted in a permanent loss of 
credited service. 
Although I discontinued this standing practice administratively, the bill sponsor, 
understandably, desired to statutorily foreclose the possibility of its recurrence.  I 
understand this instinct and it was a pleasure to work with Senator Marise James and her 
staff in reviewing and revising Bill 36-0250, which I fully support. 
Mr. Chairman, that concludes my statement on Bill 36-0250.  I am prepared to answer 
any questions on this matter.  Thank you.