The work done by the Virgin Islands (VI) House of Assembly (HoA) during the Second Session of the Fifth HoA in 2025 has been complemented in the Speech from the Throne. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

During the Second Session of this Fifth House of Assembly, January 7 to December 31, 2025, the House deliberated on some 25 Bills. Photo: YouTube/HoA

Governor Daniel Pruce presented the Speech from the Throne, which marked the official opening of the First Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly (HoA), on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

The Second Session of the Fifth House of Assembly commenced on January 7, 2025 and continued until December 31, 2025.”

21 bills passed & 18 assented to in 2025

“By all indications, it was a very productive session as the House deliberated on some 25 Bills, 21 of which were passed and 18 of which have been assented to.”

Governor Pruce noted that among legislations debated and passed last session were the Asset Seizure and Forfeiture (Amendment) Act, the BVI Health Services Authority (Amendment) Act, 2024,  amendments to the Customs Management and Duties Ordinance, 2010, the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing Act and refinements to the Cruising and Home Port Permit Act, 2021, the Tobacco Products Control (Amendment) Act, 2025 and Regulations, the BVI Business Companies and Limited Partnerships (Beneficial Ownership) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, the Anti-Money Laundering (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, and the Immigration and Passport Act and Regulations.

Members also debated 14 motions, and business they attended to included deliberations on the report of the Constitutional Review Commission and presentation of the Government of the Virgin Islands Self-Assessment Report on the Implementation of the Recommendations of the British Virgin Islands 2022 Commission of Inquiry Report.  

“Such a considerable volume of work reflects the commitment of the Legislature to its constitutional responsibilities and to the development and advancement of these Virgin Islands and its people.”

The government prepares the Speech from the Throne that gives a preview of the legislative agenda and major policies of the elected Government, as it seeks to achieve its objectives and responsibilities to the people during the upcoming Session of the House of Assembly.  

The Governor highlighted the government’s plans in the legislature for the economy, infrastructure, health and wellness, education and learning, the environment, and good governance and leadership.