AARP Virgin Islands Stands with the 50+ Community, Calls on Local Leaders to Act on 2026 Legislative Priorities

AARP Virgin Islands (AARP VI) is reaffirming its commitment to standing with the Territory’s 50‑plus community by advancing a bold and people‑centered 2026 legislative agenda focused on dignity, safety, and economic security for older Virgin Islanders. As the 2026 election approaches, AARP VI is urging residents to remind local leaders that these priorities matter—and that voters will be supporting candidates who understand and champion the needs of older adults and their families.

Adults age 50 and older make up a growing and influential segment of the U.S. Virgin Islands population. They are caregivers, workers, business owners, veterans, volunteers, and community anchors. AARP VI’s 2026 Legislative Priorities reflect the real challenges they face and outline practical solutions that will strengthen families, protect vulnerable residents, and build age‑friendly communities across the Territory.

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Elder Justice: A Territorial Priority

At the top of AARP VI’s agenda is Elder Justice. Fraud, scams, financial exploitation, neglect, and abuse targeting older adults continue to rise in the U.S. Virgin Islands, threatening the safety and financial stability of thousands of residents. AARP VI is calling on policymakers to strengthen penalties for fraud and exploitation, improve coordination among enforcement agencies, fund prevention and education efforts, create a public domestic violence registry inclusive of older adult protections, and support participation in the Territory’s 2026 Elder Justice Summit.

“Protecting older adults from abuse and exploitation is not optional—it is a moral responsibility,” said Troy De Chabert-Schuster, AARP VI State Director. “Our local leaders have the power to close gaps in enforcement and prevention, and AARP VI stands ready to work alongside them to ensure older Virgin Islanders are safe and supported.”

Caregiving Reform with a Focus on Financial Caregiving

Caregivers across the Territory—many of whom are balancing jobs, families, and limited resources—face significant financial, legal, and emotional strain. Outdated probate and guardianship systems, combined with workforce shortages, leave families vulnerable during some of life’s most difficult moments.

AARP VI is urging lawmakers to establish a dedicated Probate Court, adopt a Uniform Power of Attorney, align guardianship laws with national standards, pass caregiver leave protections, expand social worker capacity, and invest in nursing home reform and caregiving workforce development. These reforms would provide clarity, protection, and relief for caregivers and the loved ones who depend on them.

Economic Security Through Retirement Savings

Too many Virgin Islands private sector employees lack access to employer-sponsored retirement plans, putting their long-term financial security at risk. To address this growing concern, AARP VI supports the creation of a task force to design a Territory‑wide retirement savings program, often referred to as “Work & Save.” This initiative would help non-government employees build financial stability and reduce future reliance on public assistance programs.