Winter weather, likely severe, is on its way to Virginia. I encourage you to stay tuned to local news media for the latest information and to check on your neighbors.
In this week’s newsletter, I am providing you with my thoughts on the Governor’s Address to the Joint Assembly and four proposed constitutional amendments. I hope you continue to find this information useful. If you have any questions, please let me know.
Address to the Joint Assembly
On Monday, Governor Spanberger delivered what is known as the Address to the Joint Assembly. This is different from the State of the Commonwealth, which is delivered by the outgoing governor. In her address, she highlighted the priorities of her administration for this present legislative session.
During the recent campaign, Governor Spanberger often highlighted the issue of affordability. So it was no surprise that she discussed that issue at length during her speech to the House and Senate. Unfortunately, her plan seems to be at odds with the number of tax increases being proposed by Democrats in the legislature. This includes a new sales tax on deliveries such as UberEats and Amazon (HB900), a new sales tax on admission to events like concerts (HB550), and a new personal property tax on landscaping equipment (HB557). I have heard consistently from constituents in Colonial Heights and Chesterfield that we should not be increasing taxes, but should instead be focusing on cutting wasteful spending to ensure that the tax rate is as low as possible.
There was genuine surprise in the chamber when the Governor noted that she would oppose legislation to repeal existing right-to-work laws. Virginia’s right-to-work laws make it illegal for an employer to require union membership as a condition of employment. By having these laws in place, Virginia is more attractive to businesses looking to relocate, thus providing more jobs for our citizens. This position is contrary to many in her political party, so I commend her for being willing to take this stance.
You can watch the Governor’s address in its entirety, along with the GOP response offered by Senator Glen Sturtevant and Delegate Hilary Pugh Kent, by clicking here.
2026 Legislative Survey
This is the last call to complete my 2026 legislative survey! If you have not had a chance to complete the survey, please consider doing so today. I will close the survey early next week to calculate the results. I’ll be sure to include them in next week’s email update.
This survey does not include the potentially hundreds of policy questions that the General Assembly will consider this year. If there is an issue important to you and your family that is not included in the survey, please email me directly at DelMCherry@house.virginia.gov. I look forward to hearing from you.
Constitutional Amendments
Last week I discussed the timing of four constitutional amendments adopted by the General Assembly. As promised, I would like to provide you with an additional explanation of the specific policy changes these proposed amendments will–if approved by the voters–make.
HJ1 concerns abortion, and is one of the most hotly contested proposals this legislative session. As you will recall, the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Since that time, many states have made changes to their existing abortion laws. Virginia has made no significant changes to state abortion law despite claims that Governor Youngkin and Republicans would do so.
HJ2 will remove Jim Crow-era language from the state’s constitution that prohibited felons from voting after their period of incarceration was complete. Currently, only a governor can restore the right to vote for felons on a case-by-case basis.
HJ3 will remove the ban on same-sex marriage from the Virginia Constitution and replace it with an affirmative right to marry regardless of gender or sex. Concerns have been raised about unintended consequences regarding the use of the word gender in the state constitution.
HJ4 changes the process by which Virginia undertakes redistricting. The proposed amendment would permit the General Assembly to redraw congressional maps if other states undertake similar actions. Essentially, it permits the legislature a one-time free pass to return to gerrymander Virginia.
I will close this portion of the newsletter with a quick note about referendums. HJ1, 2, and 3 all–at this time–are expected to be on the regular November ballot. HJ4 is expected to be on a special April 21 ballot. I will keep you informed on additional details as soon as they are confirmed.
My Legislation
This year I am once again sponsoring legislation to support our state and local 911 dispatchers. HB 204 and HB 205 will offer enhanced retirement benefits that are already enjoyed by other first responders. These dispatchers are the very first of our first responders, offering a calm voice during what is often the worst moment of someone’s life.
These bills will also help tackle the shortage of dispatchers that many localities are experiencing. With better benefits, cities and counties–particularly those in rural areas–will be able to attract and retain top talent. In turn, this improves the entire first responder network in a community.
During my first campaign for the House of Delegates, I promised our local dispatchers that I would champion this issue. I am proud to continue working on their behalf.
Visitors to the Capitol
What a busy week at the Capitol! MLK Day (Monday) is traditionally one of the busiest days for visitors. Because so many members of the public are off work, they use that time to speak to their elected officials about issues they find important. I always enjoy the chance to sit down and discuss the many issues facing our state.
I hope you found this week’s update informative. As always, it remains an honor to represent Colonial Heights and Chesterfield in the House of Delegates.
