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Jan. 17, 2023
First, thank you so much for all your efforts and support in me. Being sworn-in, this past Wednesday, as your representative in Richmond was Ronnie's greatest honor, and I am beyond blessed for the opportunity to represent our community in Richmond and share this greatest honor with Ronnie.
Second, Jan. 11 marked the first day of the legislative session here in Richmond, and a lot has happened since then. The following message will be distributed every Tuesday morning in hopes to keep our community up to date with everything that is happening in Richmond.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns - please do not hesitate to contact us using the following information:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 540-280-0778
Mail: PO Box 366, Fairfield, VA 23350
Top line items for this legislative session:
This year – there are tough challenges to overcome as the House and Senate leadership are divided. However, we, Republicans, are hopeful we can get a number of key priorities passed. These priorities are listed below along with house bills I have introduced:
Supporting Safe Communities
I am supporting the governor's budget amendment to strengthen law enforcement by investing $30 million to recruit 2,000 new law enforcement officers and more prosecutors to enforce our laws.
HB 2320 will allow one to carry his or her firearm in a place of worship. We saw in Texas how an armed man worshipping was able to save lives by protecting his church against a gunman with bad intentions.
HB 2321 requires the parole board to notify prosecuting commonwealth's attorneys when criminals are being released from prison. This will increase awareness and transparency from the parole board and puts victims ahead of violent criminals.
Lowering the Cost of Living
I fully support Gov. Youngkin's proposal of more than $1 billion in tax cuts. Our cost of living continues to rise, and our residents deserve relief. Lowering our state income tax is step 1.
HB 2332 reduces the number of acreage required to qualify for state development grants. We have so many farmers and residents in our rural areas who should be eligible for these state benefits. Lowering this threshold will help our residents in the 24th!
Bettering our Education System
I will support the governor's budget amendment to further invest in reading and math and other resources in education, including $17 million for literacy and $50 million for teacher performance bonus.
I will be supporting efforts to consolidate workforce development programs, which are currently spread across 12 different agencies, and will ask this new agency to focus on Career and Technical Education to build a diverse and thriving labor force.
Visit us in Richmond!
We have had such a blast seeing friendly faces! If you are in the area, please make sure to drop by and say hello. The session ends Feb. 25, and we would be delighted to set you and your family with a tour of our historic Capital!
Again, thank you for the honor to serve our community. This has been a tremendous journey, and I am beyond blessed.
Please do not hesitate to contact us!
