MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD
Effectively Advocating During Legislative Session
ICYMI - Click here for a brief overview on how you can make a difference in the 2021 Legislative Session.
A LOOK BACK
The Week in Review
The pace of session began to pick up steam this week, with more bills starting to receive committee assignments and preliminary hearings.

We are pleased to report that SB 1330, which would have mandated that many employers provide 12 weeks of paid medical leave to employees per year, failed in the Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor on a 12-3 vote. This costly legislation would have forced businesses who already have a sick leave policy that works for them to participate, and we do not believe that a one-size fits all approach--especially for such a lengthy duration--is what's best for businesses and their employees.

We are hopeful for continued positive momentum of HB 2204, which would establish the "G3" program. G3, or "Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back" would provide an avenue for eligible low and middle income Virginians to receive financial support to attend a 2-year educational institution if the student is pursuing a career in an in-demand field. This is an innovative solution to help solve job shortages in the selected industries with Virginia citizens filling those jobs, and we are proud to support this initiative.

Important for Virginia's Blue Ridge Region is the recent success of HB 1923, which expands a pilot program that allows our electric utilities to offer broadband capacity. Decreasing the number of households and businesses currently unserved by broadband is critical to our efforts to attract and retain talent in the region.
A LOOK AHEAD
What's on Tap for Next Week?
Next week we expect to see more committee movement on bills relating to expansion of broadband, in addition to the possibility for some bills of concern to crop up. Additional paid family leave bills will likely receive hearings as well as a bill to repeal Virginia’s Right to Work status. 
BILL TRACKING
By clicking on a bill number contained within our bill tracker, you will be taken directly to the web page where you will find all information on the legislation, including where it resides in the legislative process. Chamber action--where applicable--is indicated in italics under the bill title in the tracker.

We continue to keep an eye on legislation that works its way through the process, even for bills that may not be on this list. Please contact Terry if you wish to advocate for bills listed in our tracker or if you have any questions. 
SESSION QUICK LINKS
THE LATEST
In the News
Statewide

  • BREAKING: State opens COVID-19 vaccinations for Virginians 65 and older [Full Story]
 
  • Virginia set to implement permanent standards for COVID-19 workplace safety [Full Story]

  • As Virginia struggles to boost vaccination rates, state officials face calls for more coordination[Full Story]

  • Senate marijuana panel proposes changes to Northam legalization bill, would delay sales until 2024[Full Story]

 
Regional
 
  • Six Republicans vie Thursday for nomination to try to succeed late Sen. Chafin; Democrat enters race[Full Story]

  • Roanoke County wrapping up latest effort to expand broadband in rural areas, with more to come[Full Story]

  • Roanoke vaccination clinics fill up within hours, as demand far outpaces supply[Full Story]
STAY CONNECTED:
 
Terry Durkin
Vice President of Public Policy
 Roanoke Regional Chamber 
540.682.2111