Lawmakers Approve Measures To Strengthen Traffic Enforcement, Domestic Violence

The Senate Committee on Homeland Security, Justice, and Public Safety, chaired by Sen. Clifford A. Joseph, convened Thursday and advanced several public safety bills, including measures to increase penalties for traffic violations and establish mandatory minimum bail for domestic violence cases.

While lawmakers approved multiple initiatives, a proposal redefining consent laws for individuals in police custody was held for further review. All approved legislation will now move to the Rules and Judiciary Committee for continued consideration, according to the press release.

Bill No. 36-0036, sponsored by Sen. Kenneth L. Gittens, seeks to amend Title 20 of the Virgin Islands Code to raise penalties for traffic offenses, create a Virgin Islands Police Department impound lot, and bolster enforcement mechanisms. Gittens stressed that successful implementation will require coordination across law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance, the press release stated.

“Penalties have not kept pace with inflation nor the seriousness of the offenses,” Gittens said. “It has been more than 13 years since any adjustments were made to traffic penalties. Adjusting the fines will help serve as a deterrent for dangerous driving behavior, encourage drivers to follow the law, and to drive more safely on our roads. It is also important to note the necessity of impound lots to better secure vehicles.”

Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea, representing the Justice Department, voiced support for the bill’s provisions to modernize traffic fines and establish a structured impound system, the release stated.