One week left in the 2024 session of The General Assembly.

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** Richmond Roundup: Week 8
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One week left in the 2024 session of The General Assembly.

Most of the action this week took place in committee, where I am pleased to say we made significant progress in fighting Virginia’s deadly fentanyl epidemic. Although the House version of the bill was killed, a Senate bill made its way through committee that would make the use of pill presses to manufacture fake pills laced with fentanyl its own crime. I am optimistic that we can move this bill forward.

I commend the work of my Republican colleagues who worked hard to get this bill a hearing, and I’m pleased to say that it was reported to the floor on a unanimous vote from the Appropriations Committee. It will likely be up for final passage on Monday.

The action wasn’t all reserved to the House floor though. Several of my colleagues took to the court to raise $100,000 for the Massey Cancer Center. The House reigned victorious over the Senate, and our Governor showed that he’s got some serious game! It was a great event for an even better cause.
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Republicans in the House and Senate both introduced bills this year to hold the people who kill with fentanyl accountable for the lives they take. Virginia Democrats refuse to take action. Five more people died from overdose on Friday.


** Budget Highlights
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Meanwhile, the House and Senate budget remain in conference. Negotiators for both chambers began work on Sunday, meeting to work out the differences between the two spending plans. Some of the key differences between the two are:
* The Senate version contains a business-to-business “tech tax” that will further drive up costs, in addition to the “digital tax” included in the House version.
* The Senate version contains significant funding for toll relief for those who live in Hampton Roads.
* The House version contains the Governor’s proposal to create an arena and entertainment authority in Northern Virginia, while the Senate does not.
* The House version contains significant funding for Metro in Northern Virginia, while the Senate does not.

Regardless of its contents, negotiators are obligated to finish their work this week, so that both chambers can review the budget and then vote on or before March 9th. Governor Youngkin will also get a chance to review the budget and send down amendments and line-item vetoes, which we will then consider at our one-day Reconvene Session in April.


** Cast Your Vote
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On Saturday, I voted early in the Presidential Primary. So far, the turnout is looking good. I was the 200th voter yesterday. If you haven’t voted yet, you will have one more shot this coming Tuesday, March 5th. Please get out and exercise your constitutional right to vote!

Outside the Voter Registrar’s office in Frederick County

If our office can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to reach out.

[email protected]

Legislative Aid: Glen Leonard

General Assembly Building 1006

Richmond Phone: 804-698-1032
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