The 2022 Virginia General Assembly session has been moving at lightning speed. We have increased our investments and staffing in government affairs this year to help manage our 61 priority bills and 90 defensive priority bills. It was a good decision because we have experienced one of the most successful years in a decade with issues ranging from reforming DEQ Citizen Boards to increasing the manufacturing talent pipeline.

At cross-over, 79% of the VMA’s priority bills had passed and 91% of the VMA’s defensive priority bills had failed. This was a significant improvement over the last year. Our overall review is in the "Crossover Report" below. We will issue the final "Wrap-up Report" by March 31, 2022.

Meanwhile, we have much to do this final week of session. If the Budget Conferees reach an agreement, session will end on March 12. There is a significant impasse over what to do with the surplus revenue. So, the budget negotiations are going to take most of our remaining time and we will be communicating our "Call to Action" around budget priorities and a few remaining bills in the next 72 hours.

It is time for a final push to make it across the finish line. Please help us engage your leaders, employees, retirees, and suppliers to ensure that our General Assembly knows that Manufacturing Makes Virginia!

Industry's Advocate™ Since 1922: Seeking Historical Documents and Pictures

The VMA celebrates its centennial anniversary in 2022. Our Centennial Planning Committee is hard at work preparing a year-long calendar of events aimed at celebrating the growth and sustainability of the manufacturing industry in the Commonwealth. Here's how you can help:

The committee is seeking historical documents and pictures from the past hundred years to help us create a digital history of the VMA and its relationship with Virginia manufacturing. If you or your company has any materials to share, please send them to Kimberly Noonan at [email protected].

The VMA is considering hosting monthly "lunch & learn" legislative and regulatory updates throughout 2022.

“Crossover” marks the halfway point of the legislative session; this deadline dictates that each chamber must complete work on its own bills, except for the budget, and begin to consider only those bills “crossing over” from the other chamber. That milestone was reached on Tuesday, February 15th. Use the link below to view the 2022 VMA Legislative Crossover Report.

In a letter dated March 4, 2022, Governor Youngkin urges Del. Barry Knight, Chair, Appropriations Committee and Sen. Janet Howell, Chair, Finance & Appropriations Committee to include a return of surplus revenues to the taxpayer in the House budget.

The Virginia Safety & Health Codes Board Voted to repeal §16 VAC 25-220 - Upcoming Meeting Dates

The VA Safety & Health Codes Board voted 7-3 to repeal 16VAC25-220 Final Permanent Standard (COVID-19) on 2/16. 

Brett Vassey, VMA President & CEO, testified on behalf of the VMA and the Coalition for a Strong Virginia Economy in support of repealing the Final Permanent Standard and adopting a dynamic “Guidance” document to assist employers. After 2 years of advocacy, an Emergency Temporary Standard, a Final Permanent Standard, changes to the Final Permanent Standard, a court challenge, an appeals court challenge, and an election, Virginia’s manufacturers, united with our business community colleagues, have accomplished our original goal – clear and simple VOSH COVID-19 guidance to help all employers protect their workers, suppliers, and customers. 

Thank you to our Safety Subcommittee leaders that helped us mitigate the final permanent standard that was developed by organized labor and imposed upon all employers. Thank you to our Board of Directors that supported us utilizing every advocacy tool, including the courts, to challenge government overreach and seek a solution that is reasonable, enforceable, and protective. This is one of the best examples of why the VMA was founded 100 years ago and how the manufacturing sector has remained strong and vibrant – your commitment to excellence. Finally, we should especially thank Governor Glenn Youngkin, Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater, Deputy Secretary of Labor Nicole Riley, and the VA Safety & Health Codes Board for their leadership.

The Public Hearing date is March 14th. The meeting will be offered virtual and in-person. The location is the Patrick Henry Building. LINK TO MEETING NOTICE FOR PUBLIC HEARING

The Board Meeting is on March 21st. This meeting will also be offered virtual and in-person to the public. The location will be the Patrick Henry Building. LINK TO MEETING NOTICE FOR BOARD MEETING

VEDP's International Trade team will be hosting a two-part webinar series designed to help you think through various aspects of supply chain risks.

As global supply chain disruptions continue, it is more important now than ever to understand the fundamentals of supply chain management. Banking, compliance, incoterms, and tariff classifications are as vital elements as transportation management when it comes to the integrity of your supply chain. Join VEDP for these free webinars ​​​as they discuss best practices with the experts on how to position your company for supply chain success.

Part 1 - March 17, 2022 | 10am – 11am

Part 2 - March 24, 2022 | 10am – 11am

The Manufacturing Skill Institute (MSI), the workforce division of the Virginia Manufacturers Association (VMA), has received a contract with the Office of Apprenticeship (OA) within the Department of Labors’ (DOL) Employment and Training Administration (ETA) to function as an Industry Intermediary responsible for promoting and expanding multi-employer Registered Apprenticeship models in non-traditional industries and occupations across the U.S. MSI has also announced the formation of its Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) and intent to become an official Registered Apprenticeship sponsor.

The goal is to enroll at least 750 new Registered Apprentices annually over four years through the MSI Academic and Workforce national partner network of 155 organizations, including connecting job seekers with employers within targeted industries. The MSI Academic and Workforce Partner network will have a special focus on industries in the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, New York, Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, Michigan, Nevada, and California. There will be a particular focus on growing Registered Apprenticeships in new industries and occupations.

This is a great way for manufacturers to create another pipeline of skilled, qualified workers. If you are interested in starting or enhancing an apprenticeship, please contact:

Applications are being accepting for mentors and mentees. Applications are due by March 31st and there is no cost to participate.

The Manufacturers Premier program offers comprehensive coverage and flexible options tailored to meet the specific needs of the manufacturing industry.