FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RICHMOND, VA – House Bill 7001, Virginia’s COVID-19 stimulus package, passed the House of Delegates (78-20) and the Virginia Senate (23-16) Monday afternoon. The standalone budget bill allocates one-time federal stimulus funds made available to Virginia through the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
House Appropriations Chair Luke Torian issued the following statement upon both chambers’ adoption of the conference report: “We are sending relief to every family, community, worker, and business that has been impacted by the pandemic. This budget is structurally sound, fiscally responsible, and makes transformative investments in every region of Virginia.
Despite Virginia’s rebounding economy, we know families are still hurting: Our budget includes utility assistance, rent relief, and funding for food access programs. It replenishes the Unemployment Trust Fund – ensuring no employer sees higher taxes in 2022 – and sends $73.6 million to modernize and improve the Virginia Employment Commission. It provides premium pay and expedites rate increases for personal care and community-based services providers.
This budget invests in Virginia communities through $411 million for clean drinking water, CSOs, and wastewater treatment. It sets Virginia on track to be the first state in the nation to achieve universal broadband service. It directs $250 million to Virginia’s public schools for HVAC upgrades so our sons and daughters are breathing clean air in the classroom.
Virginia is the best state in the nation for business because we have grown our economy while supporting our workers. This stimulus package maintains those priorities, sending $250 million to small businesses and investing in Virginia’s Main Streets.
Importantly, our budget exceeds my stated goal of $1 billion set aside to address any future needs brought about by a COVID-19 resurgence.
I’m grateful the conference committee members could come together to get this aid where it’s needed.”
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Delegate Luke Torian represents House District 52 in the Virginia House of Delegates, serving Dale City, Woodbridge, and the towns of Dumfries and Occoquan. He has held office since 2009 and serves as Chair of the House Appropriations Committee. He is also a member of the House Rules and General Laws committees.