Let me begin by thanking you for the privilege of representing you and our area in the Virginia House of Delegates. Your trust in me has always been most humbling.

The budget that was passed increased funding to the highest level ever for public education, provided pay raises for our state employees, funded a tax rebate for all taxpayers and imposed no new taxes.

The key take away of this years’ session was the Democrats refusal to let citizens voice their concerns on legislative matters by not allowing certain bills to be heard. While this has always happened to a small degree, this year over 100 Republican sponsored bills were never docketed, thereby preventing any discussion or action. Given that almost all proposed legislation is a result of a citizen concern, this barred those citizens from exercising their democratic right to be heard.

Further actions of specific note were to change the language in our code regarding a “mother” giving birth to “birthing person” and “pregnant woman” to “pregnant person”. Given the reality of biology, I found this change to be absurd. Also, there was the highest percentage of bills passed on a strictly partisan basis due to the unwillingness of the majority party to allow any type of moderating language to even be considered.

I have always, and will always, recognize that I have a responsibility to represent all of the citizens of my district, regardless of party preference, whether a voter or not, race, gender or, any other distinction. Therefore, I must always consider their input and, as much as possible, incorporate their concerns into the policy actions before us.

As always, I welcome your questions on any specific matter that came before us this session or any matter related to our state government. I will be having my spring advisory committee meeting Saturday, May 31 at 10:00 am at my legislative office and encourage you to attend. Further, my local office hours are M/W/F 9-12 and T/Th 9-5 at 120 Falcon Dr. My office phone is (540)891-1322.