On May 2, Governor Glenn Youngkin signed HB 1600, which represents Virginia’s budget. In total, the budget represents a thoughtful spending plan that cuts taxes and funds the core responsibilities of our state government, all while ensuring that Virginia can meet future challenges as they arise. Broad highlights include $1 billion in tax relief in the form of $200 rebates for single filers and $400 for joint filers, $900 million as a safety net for potential future economic downturns, and full funding for Virginia’s portion of Medicaid. All are important priorities for House Republicans, and I would like to go over some additional features in more detail.
Investment in public education is substantial in the Commonwealth’s 2025 budget. Nearly $223 million has been allocated to fully fund the increased support cap, and $134.4 million will be made available for $1,000 bonuses in June 2025 for funded instructional support personnel with no local match required. There will be increased backing for early childhood programs as well, with such programs receiving an additional $7.5 million in funding in addition to policy changes that ensure high-quality early childhood learning to over 52,000 children across Virginia. Taken together, these are major investments in our K-12 educational system that will strengthen schools and support our educators.
As it relates to compensation for state employees, the budget provides $83.1 million for a 1.5 percent bonus for state and state-supported local employees. State employees will receive their bonuses in June, while state-supported local employees will receive their bonuses in July. This is all in addition to the already approved three percent raise for these employees included in the budget.
The budget incorporates important funding for our region as it continues to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the February ice/flooding event. Included is an additional $50 million for Disaster Response and Relief, which expands eligible funds to citizens and governments affected by the February storm in addition to Hurricane Helene. As it relates to public safety, the Commonwealth’s budget includes $2.5 million for step-increases at Virginia State Police, as well as $900,000 for a six percent salary adjustment for Sheriff’s E-911 dispatchers.
Also of note, $7.5 million has been earmarked for natural gas and utilities expansion in Pulaski County, and $20 million has been set aside for one-time Business Ready Sites funding.
In sum, this budget delivers strong fiscal management which will support Virginia’s continued AAA bond ratings, while other neighboring governments – such as Maryland and Washington, D.C. – are seeing pressuring on their bond ratings. The Commonwealth takes pride in putting forth responsible budgets that spend wisely while also saving for the future. I’m proud to support continued investment in education, our first responders, the business community, and recovery funding so that your tax dollars go toward fostering a higher standard of living for everyone.
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.
Delegate Jason Ballard
Virginia General Assembly
