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“An Act amending title 27 of the Virgin Islands Code adding chapter 4A establishing the Board of Licensed Counselors, and Examiners, providing for the licensure of persons to practice counseling for other purposes related matters” is a result of years of advocacy by members of the 91�ε� of the Virgin Islands (91�ε�VI) and assistance from the 91�ε� (91�ε�).

Discussions regarding provisions of the bill started in spring of 2015. In early December, two members of the 91�ε� Government Affairs team met with the bill sponsor, Sen. Sammuel Sanes, as well as Edward Browne, the 91�ε�VI member who led the charge. The bill passed on December 17, 2015 and had been awaiting the Governor’s signature.

The USVI will now work to implement the bill and make adjustments as needed. While the creation of a licensing board can be a lengthy process, regulation is critical to securing a solid path for the counseling profession and the many important services counselors provide.

To view the full bill and learn more about how the board will operate in the USVI, click .

To view the Governor's letter authenticating approval of the bill, click .