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The panel discussion, moderated by Julie Carey of NBC 4, began with brief remarks from each member of the General Assembly delegation: Senators Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and Barbara Favola, and Delegates Patrick Hope, Alfonso Lopez and Adele McClure. The legislators summarized their priorities and experiences during this past session.
A key topic of the budget conversation centered around the appropriations in the budget for WMATA. “Metro is an important economic driver for the region and for the state,” said Senator Barbara Favola. Favola added that the Commonwealth brings in considerable revenue "because of the metro traffic to these job centers, to retail centers, and to other kinds of economic hubs," concluding by emphasizing that "there will be a commitment on the part of the General Assembly" to WMATA.
Panelists also addressed the future fiscal state of the Commonwealth. When questioned on the potential for future tax increases, Delegate Patrick Hope emphasized that there is not currently a need for new income taxes. “I think that we've identified some revenue streams," said Hope, noting cannabis and tobacco taxes in particular as means to alleviate fiscal gaps caused by federal policy changes and social service cuts. He expressed optimism about Virginia's future, adding "I think we've got all the right elements in place."
The discussion shifted to housing policy, a key topic this session. Delegate Adele McClure said that some of the housing bills on the Governor's desk currently “would make housing more affordable, would increase supply and therefore make affordable housing for many folks who are renting.” Delegate McClure continued by noting the importance of increasing housing supply, adding that “we are feeling the pressures of not having enough supply, and feeling the increasing cost in rent.”
Delegate Alfonso Lopez built on Delegate McClure's comments to offer his own thoughts on housing. Specifically he elaborated on his vocal support for increasing the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, which was a topic in this year's budget discussion. "For every project we fund in northern Virginia, there are seven that we don't," said Lopez, adding that "considering the population, our density, our size," the Commonwealth should invest far more in the Trust fund than it currently allocates.
On the subject of bills that did not ultimately pass, Senator Bennett-Parker elaborated on legislation, patroned by her and by Senator Roem of Prince William County, for free school breakfasts. “It’s incredibly important to make sure that our students are set up for academic success and that they have full meals, with which they can learn and start their day,” said Bennett-Parker.
Following the moderated discussion, the legislators also took questions from members of the business community and leaders of local nonprofit organizations during the audience Q&A.
The Arlington Chamber of Commerce is grateful for the continued partnership of Arlington’s General Assembly delegation and their dedication to the issues that impact Arlington’s businesses and broader community. The Chamber remains committed to advocating on behalf of its members at the local, state, and federal levels. To learn more about the Chamber's advocacy efforts, please review our Policy Positions at www.arlingtonchamber.org.
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