Elton Gallegly: “the Omnibus Insular Areas Act of 1996, H.R. 1332, includes a number of measures largely technical in nature affecting…”

“the Omnibus Insular Areas Act of 1996, H.R. 1332, includes a number of measures largely technical in nature affecting some of our U.S. territories as well as the native Hawaiians. These provisions have been developed based on hearings and consultations with leaders from the islands during the first and second sessions of the 104th Congress. All are noncontroversial, and enjoy bipartisan support. The administration has testified in support of a majority of the provisions and have now indicated no opposition to certain measures which have been modified to address any major concerns. Let me briefly explain the individual sections of the bill, which are listed in section 1. Sections 2, 3, and 4 affect the U.S. Virgin Islands. Section 2 would clarify that the physical absence of the Governor or Lieutenant Governor would not constitute a temporary absence which triggers a transfer of authority to the next administration official in the chain of command. Modern telecommunications enable the Governor and Lieutenant Governor to retain communication with the Virgin Islands from virtually anywhere in the United States or the world. Section 3 will enable the Virgin Islands to issue parity bonds rather than priority bonds. This is consistent with the current practice with most State and local governments and will potentially save money for the Virgin Islands.”