Dear Jack,

As we turn the calendar to October, the air is a little crisper, the days a little shorter, and the season of change is fully upon us. Whether you are savoring fall traditions, setting new goals, or simply enjoying the beauty of the season, we are glad to have you with us this week.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. As always, my office stands ready to assist with any questions or concerns you may have.

 

Federal Government Shutdown and Its Impact on Virginia

 

On Wednesday, October 1st, the government shut down as Democrats put forth multiple attempts to pass a bipartisan budget deal that would have kept the government open and protected lifesaving healthcare for Americans, but a consensus was not reached. As a result, health care premium increases for 350,000 Virginians are at risk of impacting small business owners, farmers, seniors, and many others across the state. It is important to note that under federal law, anyone who is not present legally in the United States does not get health care through federal services.

Regardless of these ongoing challenges, Virginia House Democrats remain committed to keeping costs down and protecting federal workers through recent legislation, such as SB1430, which provides individuals impacted by a government shutdown with a 30-day delay in eviction, foreclosure, and related proceedings, and HB1766, which increases weekly unemployment benefits by $100. Due to the Governor’s amendment, HB1766 has a delayed enactment of January 1, 2026.

If you are facing difficulty due to the government shutdown and require assistance from the state government, contact my office at [email protected], and a member of my staff will be in touch.

 

Digital ID App

 

Virginia is introducing a new Mobile ID (“mID”) system that enables residents to securely store their driver’s license or state identification on a smartphone, allowing individuals to supplement their physical card. Additionally, the mID application employs advanced security measures to safeguard personal data and privacy, offering users a digital credential that is both easily accessible and convenient. Some key points to know:

Optional & Secure: Mobile ID is not required, but it is available for people who want greater convenience or an extra level of portability. Security and privacy are top priorities, ensuring that your personal data is protected.

How it Works: The Mobile ID app generates a unique, scannable QR code that contains your identification information. When you need to show ID (like during a traffic stop), law enforcement or other authorized personnel can scan this QR code with a special “Virginia mID Verifier” app to verify your credentials instantly and securely.

Real-Time Accuracy: Since it is digital and connected, the information in the app is always up to date, reducing the chance of someone using an expired or revoked license.

Pilot Phase: Right now, this Mobile ID is being tested in a “Test Drive” pilot phase. The plan is for a full statewide launch in late September.

Guidance for Law Enforcement: The FAQ link below offers law enforcement officers instructions on verifying Mobile IDs, outlines the benefits (like quicker, contactless interactions and increased fraud protection), and covers any operational questions.

Overall, Virginia’s Mobile ID is designed to make identification easier, safer, and more reliable for everyone, while also allowing law enforcement to check credentials quickly and accurately. Click the button below to learn more.

DMV MOBILE ID
 

Elevating Proficiency Benchmarks Without Investment In Capacity

 

On September 25, 2025, the Virginia Board of Education unanimously voted to raise K-12 academic standards to align with national benchmarks, using cut scores similar to those of the National Assessment for Educational Progress (“NAEP”). The Virginia Department of Education will provide tools, training, and resources to support students, educators, and families in meeting these higher expectations. The decision followed substantial input and strong support from educators, families, and the community, with stakeholders noting the benefits of more accurate student progress data and a stronger future-ready workforce. As these new standards near implementation, the following steps will occur:

Roadshow for Input: Statewide input sessions will be held with stakeholders in October to finalize implementation plans. The Virginia Department of Education will then present a final, multi-year phase-in implementation plan at the Board's business meeting on October 23, 2025.

Division Impact Reviews: Division-level impact data will be shared with local leaders for planning and support.

Professional Development & Supports: Expanded professional development and coaching for educators using 2024-25 student data will be launched.

Parent & Community Engagement: A communications toolkit will be provided to families that explains how the new expectations support student growth.

Monitoring & Adjustment: The Board of Education will continue to monitor, share the best practices, and adjust supports as new data emerges.

In 2023 and 2024, the Virginia Department of Education adopted more rigorous academic standards for math and reading, emphasizing deeper understanding, critical thinking, and real-world application. To align with these elevated standards, assessments and test questions were revised to emphasize thinking beyond just memorization and advanced skills. However, proficiency cut scores were not updated to reflect these changes, prompting many stakeholders to advocate for benchmarks that match the new expectations. As more information becomes available, we will keep you updated. In the meantime, click below to learn more or share your thoughts on this change with the Virginia Department of Education.

LEARN MORE
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
 

Virginia Bankers Association (“VBA”) Meeting

 

At the Virginia Bankers Association (“VBA”) Regional Meeting, community stakeholders played a pivotal role in legislative discussions on a range of topics, including banking. The VBA convened regional banking leaders and state elected officials to examine broader trends within the banking industry. As a Delegate representing Loudoun County—one of the fastest-growing economies in the nation—it is essential that we consider community feedback when evaluating how the banking industry impacts our local economies.

 

Wolf Trap Ball

 

Celebrating the arts at The Wolf Trap Bollywood Ball with fellow Virginia Legislators.

The Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts hosted the Wolf Trap Ball, marking the end of its 2025 concert season and celebrating the impact of its arts and education programs. This year's theme highlighted the spirited music, cuisine, and cultures of India.

As a major nonprofit and prominent cultural institution in Northern Virginia, Wolf Trap was recognized during the 2021 General Assembly session for its five decades of contributions to the Commonwealth’s cultural landscape and its dedication to preserving and expanding early childhood education in the arts. Central to this mission is the Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts, which partners with public schools statewide to integrate arts into education. I am proud to continue supporting the fine arts—a commitment that began during my service on the school board, where we made a multimillion-dollar investment in Loudoun County Public Schools’ fine arts programs.

 

ENDORSEMENT ALERT!

 

I’m honored to have the endorsement of the Mid Atlantic Pipe Trades! Together, we will keep fighting for good jobs, fair wages, and strong communities.

 

How My Office Can Help

Navigating state agencies can be confusing and difficult at times. As the delegate for House District 27, I can help you communicate with state agencies such as the Virginia Employment Commission, Departments of Taxation, Social Services, Transportation, and more! I can also submit inquiries with those agencies on your behalf. There are limits to what I can do, however. For example, I am unable to expedite cases or force state agencies to favor your inquiry, provide legal advice or recommend a specific attorney, intervene with judicial issues, overturn decisions, or be involved with matters between private businesses. 

Whether you require my office’s assistance, want to bring an issue to my attention or invite me to a community event, please reach out here: https://atoosareaser.com/help/.

Alongside constituent services, I can submit drafts for commending and memorial resolutions. If you know of a person or organization in the district that deserves special recognition, please submit a request here: resolution request form.

 

If you are happy with the work I am doing, please consider donating to my campaign for re-election using the button below.

CONTRIBUTE
 

Yours in Service,

Delegate Atoosa Reaser (she/her)
Virginia House of Delegates 
District 27 (Eastern Loudoun)
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