For 50 years, women in Virginia and throughout the United States have known that their ability to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions was guarded by the Supreme Court. Last week, a highly politicized Supreme Court seemed poised to overturn the protections contained in Roe.
The Virginia House and Senate are currently in a Special Session, and all that is required to return into Special Session and codify access to abortion is action by the Speaker of the House and the Chair of Rules in the Senate. I am encouraging them to return us to Richmond to ensure Virginia joins the 15 other states that guarantee access to safe and legal abortion. The time for bold action is now, before it is too late.
Updates from the District
I recently had the opportunity to speak with the Cub Scouts of Pack 873. They lobbied hard for a longer recess period and have a bright future ahead in civic engagement!
I enjoyed having the opportunity to meet with advocates from Moms Demand Action to discuss our path forward to preserve the progress we’ve made on commonsense gun violence prevention measures.
Over the past few days, I’ve appreciated meeting with Prince William County and Fairfax County Public Schools Boards to discuss their legislative priorities for our upcoming regular session in 2022.
And my family and I enjoyed celebrating Hanukkah.
COVID-19 Vaccine Updates
Booster Shots
The CDC has determined that booster shots increase immunity for adults who received their second shot over 6 months ago. The CDC has expanded booster eligibility to all adults, 18 and over. Booster shots are free and vaccines can safely be mixed and matched. Click on the links below to read more about booster shots and learn how to schedule your appointment. My wife, Karen, and I recently got our booster shots, and I encourage you to do the same if you have not already.
With the new Omicron variant emerging, a booster shot will help keep you and our community safe. For Fairfax County residents, learn more here, and for Prince William County residents, learn more here.
Vaccines for Children Aged 5 and Older
The CDC also has determined that children aged 5 and older are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines. Click the links below to read more about COVID-19 vaccines for children and to learn how to schedule an appointment for your child.
For information on vaccines in Fairfax County, learn more here, and for Prince William County, learn more here.
Free Home COVID-19 Test Kits
On December 3rd, Fairfax County Public Libraries announced the distribution of free COVID-19 rapid antigen at-home test kits.
BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Card Home Test kits will be available at each of Fairfax County Public Library’s 13 open community branches and 8 regional branches. These test kits are free of charge, and neither proof of residency nor a library card is required.
This new program is very popular with all test kits distributed on December 3rd. More kits will be available for distribution this week and in coming weeks.
In Prince William County, please click here to access COVID-19 testing information.
Favorites of the 40th
This week’s Favorite of the 40th is Battlefield High School. I had the chance to present several commending resolutions to honor members of the swim & dive and track & field teams on strong seasons this past year. I was glad to be joined by Ms. Wall from the School Board and Principal Ferrera to tour the school, learn about their innovative technology education programs, catch a sneak peek of the choir’s winter set, and chat with current students.
Congratulations are also in order for the Battlefield High School football team for their regional championship win and the Bobcats’ outstanding season!