During the first full week of Session 2022 we recognized Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and began to vote on legislation. Bills are now being referred to the committees and subcommittees where they will receive their first votes. Members of the House have submitted all their budget amendments which will be considered by the Appropriations Committee for incorporation into former Governor Northam’s proposed budget. The General Assembly is also considering Governor Youngkin’s Cabinet nominees.
Constituent Survey
Thank you to all who completed my constituent survey! I appreciate you sharing how the COVID pandemic has impacted you over the past two years, as well as your thoughts on this legislative session.
Almost half of you feel that Virginia’s economy is improving.
The primary concerns that you identified were climate change and the environment, criminal justice reform, and voting rights. These were followed up by healthcare access and affordability, protecting reproductive freedom, and public transportation/traffic congestion.
The top issue that you indicated wanting to see the General Assembly act upon was voting rights. Virginia has made incredible strides on expanding access to the ballot over the past two years. House and Senate Democrats are committed to fighting any attempts to roll back this progress.
Free COVID Tests
Every household in the U.S. is eligible to order four at-home rapid antigen COVID tests at no cost. These tests provide results within 30 minutes and work whether or not you are symptomatic or up-to-date on your vaccinations. Order your tests here. They will ship in 7-12 days. You should take a COVID test if you are feeling sick, have been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of COVID, or before attending a gathering of people, especially if you know others will be there who are at-risk or unvaccinated.
Every locality in America is currently at a high rate of community transmission, according to the CDC. Testing is just one step we can all take to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities. I encourage you to also stay up-to-date on your vaccinations, as well as wearing a well-fitting mask and maintaining a safe distance from others when gathering indoors.
If you have any questions or comments about the General Assembly Session, please reach out to my office at info@delegatetorian.com or 703-785-2224.