“No Weapons Allowed” on St. John; Department Officials Give 2024 Celebration Updates

On Tuesday, representatives from the Division of Festivals, V.I. Police Department, Health Department, Waste Management Authority, Licensing and Consumer Affairs Department, and the Public Works Department appeared before the Committee on Homeland Security, Justice, and Public Safety to provide safety and permitting updates for the upcoming celebration on St. John.

While testifiers appeared confident that this year’s celebration on St. John will operate well, senators inquired about security and health measures taking place. One main safety concern on the Senate floor surrounded the carrying of firearms.

Sen. Dwayne DeGraff asked testifiers about the requirements the public should be aware of when traveling to St. John. Leaona Smith said a regular ID is required. Steven Phillips, chief of police, said security personnel and the TSA will conduct searches.