Governor Bryan signs Act No. 9047 to protect November SNAP Benefits for Virgin Islanders amid Federal shutdown

– $2.77 million from the Budget Stabilization Fund approved; Finance and Human Services begin mailing payments covering half of November benefits

ST THOMAS, USVI – Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has signed Bill No. 36-0202 into law as Act No. 9047, authorising $2.77 million from the Budget Stabilisation Fund so Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients receive 50 percent of their November benefits despite the federal shutdown.

“Washington may be stalled, but our responsibility to Virgin Islanders is not,” Governor Bryan said. “This action makes sure families can put food on the table while Congress sorts itself out. We prepared the logistics in advance so help would move the moment the law allowed it.”

The 36th Legislature passed Bill No. 36-0202 at its October 30, 2025, session. Anticipating approval, the Department of Finance and the Department of Human Services coordinated to finalise operations before the bill reached the Governor’s desk. As a result, checks began going out by mail as the Governor signed the measure.

Governor Bryan noted the role of prudent fiscal planning. “Since taking office in 2019, we have budgeted deposits to the Budget Stabilisation Fund, which for years was not prioritised or funded,” he said. “Responsible budgeting, and responsible use of those reserves are for moments like this. The point is the capacity to act when Virgin Islanders need us.”

What SNAP households should know:

• Amount: Each SNAP household will receive a check equal to 50 percent of its normal November allotment.
• Delivery: Payments are being mailed to the address on file for each household on Saturday, November 1.
• Timing: Standard mail delivery times apply.
• Address changes: Households should verify their mailing address with Human Services if it has changed.