At the call of Governor Tim Kaine, today a special session of the General Assembly convened to address the Commonwealth’s biennial budget, which the General Assembly failed to pass during the regular 60-day session. This year marks the third time in five years that Virginia’s Republican-controlled General Assembly has failed to fulfill its constitutional duty to deliver a budget on time.
“Senate Republicans, Senate Democrats, the Governor, and we House Democrats all agree that Virginia needs about $1 billion a year in sustained, dedicated, long-term transportation funding to get people out of gridlock, keep our economy strong, and improve quality of life,” said David. “The House Republican Caucus continues to obstruct the process by pushing a plan that fails to meet our transportation needs and cuts funding for core services.”
After several procedural votes, House Democrats offered a series of budget amendments to reinstate funding for core services like veterans care, fire departments, gang prevention, and education.
“House Republicans again blocked our efforts to protect the core services that keep our communities strong, but we will keep working in good faith to find a solution,” said David. “Virginians want their government to work for them and to deliver results.”
The House of Delegates adjourned in the early evening, with no clear indication when it will again convene.
“As a freshman legislator, you learn very quickly that it’s a numbers game, and what the majority wants, the majority gets,” said David. “Since Republicans control both the House and the Senate, it’s time for them to get their act together and work this thing out. Much more of this, and people might start to think that the current majority party doesn’t know how to govern.”
As soon as the House adjourned, David drove back up to Alexandria for the Women’s Commission’s annual Salute to Women Awards Banquet.
“Congratulations to all of the the amazing women who were honored this year for their contributions to our community,” said David. “Each in her own way has enriched and strengthened Alexandria, making it a wonderful city we are proud to call home.”
