On June 18, I will return to Richmond to consider what is expected to be a budget document produced by House Democrats. At the time of this writing, no budget has been yielded for review, and it is still unknown whether or not Democrats controlling the Senate of Virginia or Governor Spanberger will agree to whatever arrangement that House Democrats put forward. As of last week, budget talks had broken down to the point that the first government shutdown in Virginia history seemed more likely than not – and it still remains to be seen whether or not that outcome will be avoided. Developments a week ago cast doubt on whether General Assembly Democrats will be able to set aside personal squabbles and deliver for Virginia families.
While no official reports of the recent meeting between top General Assembly Democrats and Governor Spanberger have been issued, Senate Majority Leader Louise Lucas immediately began name-calling House Speaker Don Scott and Governor Spanberger after the meeting concluded. It is relatively unheard of for members of the same political party to engage in this type of behavior against each other in Richmond, and it shows that there is a massive rift between Senator Lucas and Speaker Scott. Senator Lucas and Speaker Scott have to this point been staunch allies – and even represent some of the same localities in Hampton Roads.
Of note, Governor Spanberger recently announced a re-forecast of state revenues, which identified nearly $1 billion in new anticipated state revenue. Under the leadership of former Governor Glenn Youngkin, it could typically be expected that this type of windfall would result in tax rebates or relief for Virginians. Under Governor Spanberger, that outcome is highly unlikely.
Different ideas have been tossed into the ring by General Assembly Democrats, to include a so-called “skinny budget” which would essentially be the same as a continuing resolution in Washington, DC. This would be a budget that funds some essential functions of government, but not others. An extension of the frustrating budget process of our federal government into our state government is not something that Virginia residents should want. All of this leads to one question: with a Democrat-led trifecta in state government in which they can pass whatever they want, why can’t they do they most important job in the General Assembly?
I am hopeful that I will soon be able to report that a responsible budget agreement has been reached between General Assembly Democrats and Governor Spanberger. Unfortunately, public actions and statements by leaders in the Democratic party have cast that into question. Teachers, first responders, state employees, law enforcement and improved transportation infrastructure all depend on the Commonwealth enacting a budget on time. Virginians sent Democrats to Richmond to fight for affordability and to govern. So far, they have done neither.
As the Delegate representing the 42nd House District in the Virginia General Assembly, your concerns are my greatest priority. If ever I may be of assistance to you and your family, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at DelJBallard@House.Virginia.Gov. You can also follow me on Twitter @JasonBallardVA or like my Facebook page, Jason Ballard for Delegate, to keep up to date with what I am doing in Richmond and in our community on your behalf.
