Happy April! As we enter a new month, I hope everyone can take some time to enjoy the warmth of springtime outside with friends and family. These past months in Richmond have been eventful, as we have worked on issues of importance to the people of Virginia and Prince William County. It’s good to be home so that I am available to respond directly to your questions and address any concerns that you may have.
General Assembly ’23
Reconvene
Monday (03/27), Governor Youngkin communicated to the House of Delegates and Senate of Virginia his actions on the 819 bills we passed during the 2023 regular session. He signed over 738 bills into law, including my House Bill 1829. The Governor offered amendments to 78 bills and vetoed three bills that were initially passed with bipartisan support. On April 12th, the House and Senate will return to Richmond for ‘reconvene session.’ This allows us the opportunity to review and vote upon the Governor’s amendments.
You can view all the Governor’s amendments and vetoes here.
Post-Session Town Hall
The Prince William General Assembly delegation will hold a post-session town hall on April 15th from 10:00 – 11:30 am at the James J. McCoart Building. We will discuss how recently passed legislation may impact you and give an update on the Commonwealth’s budget. If you would like to attend, please sign up here.
2023 Endorsements
As we begin the 2023 election cycle here in Virginia. I am happy to announce that LiUNA! (the Laborers’ International Union of North America) has endorsed my reelection to continue representing Prince William County as the Delegate for residents in the new 24th District.
LiUNA! members are skilled and experienced union workforce trained to work safely in the construction and energy industries. They are united through collective bargaining agreements that help earn family-supporting pay, good benefits, and opportunities for advancement and better lives.
Who’s My Legislator
If you are unsure who your legislator is under the 2021 redistricting maps for the General Assembly. You can visit whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov to find out. Simply type in your address, and it will provide you with information about your current and new district come November 2023.
Medicaid Unwinding
In April, Virginia’s Medicaid program will return to normal operations and begin to re-determine eligibility for all 2.2 million members for the first time in three years. The Biden Administration has stated that they will end the COVID-19 national emergency declaration on May 11th. Then states will have a year to ensure Medicaid members are still eligible for coverage. The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) sent all Medicaid members a letter requesting updated contact information. It is essential to update your information to avoid a lapse in coverage if you are still eligible. Lastly, DMAS and the Department of Social Services have been speaking with stakeholders about the transition, steps that need to be taken to determine continued coverage, and resources available for individuals who may no longer be eligible for the Medicaid program.
Below is information on Frequently Asked Questions, and more information can be found at https://coverva.dmas.virginia.gov/covid-19.
Eli Lilly Insulin Prices
Last month we heard the great news that Eli Lilly, the largest insulin manufacturer in the United States, will lower their prices, capping what patients pay out of pocket for the drug maker’s insulin products at $35. This means an automatic $35 max out-of-pocket monthly cost for people with commercial insurance. For those who may be uninsured or need to use a non-participating retail pharmacy, Eli Lilly has created an easy-to-download savings card that provides a $35 max out-of-pocket monthly cost. To learn more and apply for a savings card, visit www.insulinaffordability.com.
2023 Summer Camps
Registration for the 2023 Summer Camps offered by the Prince William County – Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department is now open. Programming includes specialty camps from arts and sports to full-day traditional-style summer camps with popular weekly themes for ages 3-17 at 14 locations throughout Prince William County. If you and your kids are interested in participating, please click the link to learn more about the fantastic summer opportunities, https://www.pwcva.gov/department/childrens-programs/summer-camps.
How to Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to contact our office if you have questions or concerns. Feel free to contact us directly at the district office; our email is info@delegatetorian.com, and our telephone number is 703-785-2224.