Senator Kurt Vialet is appealing to gas station owners across the Virgin Islands to temporarily lower fuel prices to help residents struggling under the weight of the high cost of living, the ongoing federal government shutdown, and the suspension of SNAP benefits.
According to the V.I. Department of Human Services, approximately 10,603 households in the territory depend on SNAP benefits to maintain food security. With those benefits now paused, many families are struggling to manage everyday expenses, including paying for fuel needed for transportation.
“During this challenging time, every act of compassion matters,” Vialet said. “We must each look for ways to lighten the load on our people. Lowering gas prices even temporarily would provide meaningful relief to families already facing uncertainty about how to put food on the table.”
According to Vialet, recent rack data shows that base fuel prices from October 28 through November 3, 2025, stand at $2.52 per gallon for Unleaded 87, $2.70 for Unleaded 91, and $2.86 for Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel. Vialet said these costs leave some flexibility for station operators to adjust their retail prices in a way that benefits residents without significantly affecting their business operations.
The senator acknowledged that while the Government of the Virgin Islands has indicated it could use local reserves to sustain SNAP payments into early 2026, that measure should not be seen as a long-term solution. “We can’t wait on federal decisions to act locally,” Vialet said. “Now is the time for businesses to show leadership and solidarity with the people they serve.”
The Majority leader also encouraged residents to continue supporting local supermarkets, restaurants, and small businesses that are assisting their communities through food drives and partnerships aimed at helping those most affected by the federal shutdown. “When the people come first, everyone wins,” he said.
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