General Assembly Update (Feb 27, 2012) The eyes of the nation have been focused on Virginia. And it is not for any special recognition for job creation or economic activity as it was under the Warner and Kaine Administrations. Instead, the country has been riveted on the debate … [Read more...]
General Assembly 2012
On Becoming Minority Leader
Delegate David Toscano was unanimously elected as the new House Democratic Caucus Minority Leader. With him are Caucus members (left to right) Del. Jeion Ward-Treasurer, Del. Mark Sickles-Caucus Chair, Del. Delores McQuinn-Sergeant at Arms, Del. Betsy Carr-Secretary, Toscano, and Del. Rosalyn Dance-Vice Chair of Operations. Not pictured, Del. Jennifer McClellan-Vice Chair of Outreach.
On November 19, 2011, I was selected to serve as the House Democratic Leader by my colleagues at our retreat in Richmond. This is a great honor for me personally, a wonderful opportunity for our region, and a tremendous challenge. In the aftermath of redistricting and the fall elections, Democrats hold fewer seats in the House of Delegates than any time in recent memory. It will take a concerted and sustained effort to retake the majority in the House. Read more...
The Avalanche Called “Crossover”
General Assembly Update (Feb 16, 2012) We have now hit the mid-point of the General Assembly session. Known as "crossover," this is a date by which each body needs to pass its legislation over to the other body for consideration. What that means is long sessions in which … [Read more...]
Cost Shifts in the Budget for Transportation and Education
General Assembly Update (Jan 23, 2012) Our state budget reflects the priorities of the Commonwealth, and the Governor’s proposed budget raises several concerns. The Governor’s budget proposes transferring a portion of the sales tax revenue that would otherwise go to fund … [Read more...]
2012 General Assembly Has Begun
Start of a New Year and 2012 General Assembly As the new Democratic Leader in the House of Delegates, my responsibilities have increased dramatically. When the session convened on January 11, 2012, I began to focus on a number of critical themes for the session. You can view the … [Read more...]
On Becoming Minority Leader
On November 19, 2011, I was selected to serve as the House Democratic Leader by my colleagues at our retreat in Richmond. This is a great honor for me personally, a wonderful opportunity for our region, and a tremendous challenge. In the aftermath of redistricting and the fall … [Read more...]