Bill Recognizing U.S. Republican Senator for Critical Role in Permanent Rum Cover-Over For USVI Clears First Hurdle

A resolution recognizing Republican U.S. Senator Mike Crapo for his role in securing a permanent increase to the rum cover-over tax reimbursements has advanced out of committee, clearing its first legislative step in the Virgin Islands Senate. Bill 36-0208, introduced on Tuesday by Senator Avery Lewis, seeks to formally acknowledge what lawmakers described as the Idaho senator’s support in ensuring the rate remained at $13.25. Senator Lewis, who chairs the Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs and Consumer Protection, told colleagues that Senator Crapo played an “instrumental role leading the bipartisan effort to secure the permanent extension of the rum cover over at the $13.25 rate of taxation.” He said the increase “will not only secure the retirement for thousands of government employees, but will strengthen our economic stability and territorial security.” Lewis added that the measure signed by President Donald Trump in July would “provide breathing room for our go...