January 24, 2020
Week two of the 2020 general Assembly session began unusually (to say the least). During the legislative session, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is typically marked by large crowds of Virginians lobbying their legislators on a wide variety of issues. This year, however, the 2nd Amendment advocacy issue dominated all else. Despite dire predictions to the contrary, the large crowds were polite, well-behaved, and incredibly tidy . The turnout was astonishing, and it was remarkable to see such a large number of Virginians exercising their right to peacefully assemble.

Meanwhile, the work of the legislature continued. Committee meetings and session were held as scheduled throughout the week, and we are making progress (albeit extraordinarily slowly) on legislation. Credible rumors indicate that we will soon being working late into the nights and through the weekends in an effort to complete our work before midnight on February 11. At least we have comfortable chairs on the House floor!
Hot-button issues
During the 2019 campaigns, Democrats vowed to pursue an aggressive liberal agenda, noting that " the work of a lifetime is the work of two afternoons. " True to their word the Senate has passed a raft of restrictions on law abiding gun owners (with the House soon to follow), and the House is busily removing healthcare protections from women seeking an abortion.

I'm often asked, "what can we do now?" The reality is unlikely to offer solace: elections have consequences, and we are seeing the effects of a Democrat takeover of the legislature. Rolling back the imminent progressive "reforms" will require a Republican majority of the General Assembly as well as the election of a Republican Governor. All of this will be on the line in 2021, so if you have any like-minded conservative friends in Virginia, make sure they are registered to vote!
2020 General Assembly Survey
The General Assembly continues working on legislation, and there is still ample time to complete this year's survey. Please take a moment to offer your perspective by completing my legislative survey . As always, if you have questions about a bill, please do not hesitate to contact my office by phone at 804-698-1096 or email at DelABatten@house.virginia.gov . Click HERE to take my 2020 Session Survey.
Visitors in Richmond
As the legislative pace escalates, the number of visitors continues to hold steady. Following are some constituents and groups who stopped by our office during the past week:

  • Communications Workers of America--Local 2201
  • George Clark (Colonial Soil & Water Conservation District, York County Representative)
  • League of Women Voters - Williamsburg Area
  • Tom Phillips
  • Jamie Van Cleave (Seizure Safe Schools, York County Advocate)
  • U.S. Congressman Rob Wittman
  • Virginia Citizens Defense League
  • Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy
  • Williamsburg Hotel & Motel Association

Please be sure to stop by Room W432 in the Pocahontas Building if you are in Richmond during the next several weeks! Visitors are always welcome.

Enjoy your weekend,
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Contact Delegate Batten
Legislative Aide: Dayle Brittain
Mail: P.O. Box 194, Norge, VA 23127
Phone: 804-698-1096
Paid for and Authorized by Friends of Amanda Batten