I am pleased to say that we had a busy, successful, first full week of Virginia's 2021 legislative session, with six of the ten measures I've proposed this year moving forward. (Why only ten? Because we were limited to seven bills this year. I also included a constitutional amendment, a study, and a budget amendment, which were not included in the bill limit.
The Virginia General Assembly's 2021 legislative session gaveled in on Wednesday, January 13. Usually, my staff and I would be down in Richmond, working for you. This year, the House of Delegates will be holding its session virtually, to protect Delegates, Commonwealth employees, and the public from the spread of COVID-19. Now that session has begun, you can expect my newsletters every Sunday morning until we adjourn sine die. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email our office or attend Mark's Monthly Meetup which will happen virtually Sunday afternoon, January 31
The 2021 legislative session has begun. As I focus on passing my progressive legislative agenda (detailed newsletter coming on Sunday!), I know most of you are focused on getting vaccinated.
With that in mind, I wanted to invite you to a Town Hall this Saturday at 1pm with two leading experts on Virginia's vaccination distribution plan:
- Dr. Danny Avula, Vaccine Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Health, and
-
Dr. Stephen Haering, Director of the Alexandria City Health Department.
If you're like me, you're still a little stunned by what happened a couple of days ago when domestic terrorists, instigated by the President of the United States, invaded the United States Capitol, running rampant through it causing violence, mayhem, and death...and leaving vandalism and live bombs in their wake. Members of Congress and the Vice President (and the electoral vote certifications they were there to count on January 6) were whisked off to secure locations barely in time, as our nation's citadel of democracy was invaded and defiled for the first time since the British invaded Washington in 1814.
I have been in frequent communication with the Governor's team and the Virginia Department of Health to get answers to these and other important questions and to share my concerns about the execution of Virginia's vaccination plans. Proper execution is critical, and I've been skeptical thus far of the response. Obviously this is a life and death situation for thousands of Virginians.
Happy New Year! As we welcome 2021, I wanted to make sure you knew about five new laws that take effect in Virginia today.
Click on read more to learn more about the new laws.
Whatever you're celebrating as 2021 approaches --
a Merry Christmas, a Happy Kwanzaa, or the coming of the New Year --
I want to send you my best wishes for a joyous and peaceful season.
I know how hard it is to socially distance over the holidays,
But I hope you are able to safely spend some time this week with those you love.