Starting yesterday, we returned to Virginia’s House of Delegates Chamber in Richmond for the first time since the declaration of a National Emergency due to COVID-19. I am proud of all we accomplished in two virtual sessions but also so glad to be back with colleagues doing the people’s business.
This week we are working on building Virginia back stronger by allocating funding from the American Rescue Plan. Our key priorities include supporting healthcare, public education, workers, families, public safety, and small businesses. The budget we are voting on marks a $3 Billion investment in Virginia’s future, and I’m proud to have an opportunity to shape and support it.
I’ve included additional details in our legislative section, but having come to this office vowing to fight for solutions that materially impact people’s lives, I’m proud of the work we’re doing this week to realize that promise.
Events and Meetings
Just over a week ago, I joined colleagues for a briefing at the Virginia State Police Training Academy. I was glad to have the day to talk about today’s policing, discuss recruitment strategies, and meet some of the folks helping keep our Commonwealth safe.
Last Tuesday, I was thrilled to be joined on the campaign trail by the Fairfax Firefighters Local 2068. I had a great time talking with members of the community about what issues they care most about. I was also honored to have received the support and endorsement from the Fairfax Firefighters, as our campaign continues to build momentum for November with less than 50 days until early voting begins.
Last Thursday, Del. Mark Keam, Del. Kathy Tran, future Del. Irene Shin, and I joined the Democratic Asian Americans of Virginia at their first in-person event since the beginning of the pandemic.
Last Thursday, Del. Mark Keam, Del. Kathy Tran, future Del. Irene Shin, and I joined the Democratic Asian Americans of Virginia at their first in-person event since the beginning of the pandemiOur campaign is excited to announce that this past weekend, we had canvass launches on Saturday and Sunday! We knocked hundreds of doors and shared our message with countless voters in the community. With less than 13 weeks left until the election, we will need all the help we can get. Moving forward, we are having canvass launches every Saturday at 10:00 AM and Sunday at 1:00 PM. Sign up using this link.
Legislative Updates
On July 13, CNBC declared that Virginia is the best state for business, proving that we can invest in our workers and our education system, prioritize diversity and equity, and help families while still being the best state for business.
Earlier this year, we dedicated $524 million to the Virginia Rental Relief program and will continue to fight so that folks can keep a roof over their heads. More information can be found here.
Earlier this year, we dedicated $524 million to the Virginia Rental Relief program and will continue to fight so that folks can keep a roof over their heads. More information can be found hereThe General Assembly also is prioritizing a $250 million plan through the Rebuild Virginia program, which advocates for small businesses and non-profit organizations that were impacted by COVID-19.
In addition to discussing how funds for the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) will be allocated, the General Assembly will also be reviewing judicial appointments.
And, as so many day-to-day activities have been moved online due to the pandemic, I understand how important it is to have access to stable internet connection, which is why advocating for universal broadband access is one of my top priorities. I am happy to say that Virginia is on track to be one of the first states in the country to achieve universal broadband service.
We have the work cut out for us, but I am more than ready to continue building a stronger, more diverse Virginia.
Please do not hesitate to share your thoughts with me regarding legislation coming before the General Assembly.
Covid-19 Updates
Last week, the CDC added a recommendation that fully vaccinated people wear a mask in public indoor settings or in areas of substantial or high transmission. Regardless of vaccination status, the CDC also recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to schools. As Coronavirus cases have begun to rise due to the Delta variant, Governor Ralph Northam has indicated that wearing masks in public indoor settings is a recommendation, not a requirement. It is on all of us to keep our community safe. Further guidance can be found here.
In addition, the Fairfax County Health Department will hold COVID-19 vaccination clinics for children 12 years of age and older at the schools listed below. To make an appointment for your child, visit the Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS). You can also come to any of these locations between 2 to 7 p.m. without an appointment:
Wednesday, August 4, 2 PM to 7 PM, Herndon Elementary School, 630 Dranesville Rd., Herndon, VA 20170.
Thursday, August 5, 2 PM to 7 PM, Justice High School, 3301 Peace Valley Ln., Falls Church, VA 22044
Friday, August 6, 2 PM to 7 PM, Liberty Middle School, 6801 Union Mill Rd., Clifton, VA 20124.