2021 Session Update - Week 5
ADVOCACY 101 - How to be an Effective Advocate this Session
ICYMI - Click here for a brief overview on how you can make a difference in the 2021 Legislative Session.
Week in Review
The Virginia General Assembly is now up and running again after a brief break on Monday and Tuesday. Committees met early in the week to carry over bills from the regular session to the recently convened special session, which is set to adjourn on February 27th.

While there wasn't as much movement on legislation this week (next week will be much busier), there are some important items of note that you should be aware of.

Tax Conformity
If you have not seen the Roanoke Regional Chamber's action alert on tax conformity, please give it a read. The General Assembly is debating legislation that could have a direct effect on our businesses' bottom line and tax burden this year if they have taken and spent funds through the Paycheck Protection Program. Click on the action alert link above to learn how you can advocate for tax relief for your members. 

Economic Education 
This legislation seeks to further inform middle and high school students about career options and employment arrangements, including full time employment, independent contract work, gig work, and others. It's important for students to be exposed to these options as they start to develop interests in career paths, and we're happy to report that this bill is sailing through the legislative process with no opposition so far.

New River Valley Passenger Rail
Legislation seeking to establish a passenger rail authority in the New River Valley continues to see success. Expansion of passenger rail in our region is vital to mitigate traffic congestion—especially on I-81—as well as necessary to provide a new link to Amazon HQ2 and Virginia Tech’s Innovation Campus in northern Virginia.
In the News
Statewide
 
Legislature transitions to special session Wednesday in Richmond with a full plate [Full Story]
 
Virginia is creating a statewide coronavirus vaccine waiting list, but it’s weeks away [Full Story]
 
Virginia launches ‘COVIDWISE Express’ for ‘app-less’ exposure notifications[Full Story]
 
Bill requiring public reporting of major outbreaks still alive, but Senate nixes emergency enactment[Full Story]
 
 
Regional
 
Va. politicians urge state to address how rural health districts with high COVID rates received least amount of vaccines[Full Story]

Governor Northam Announces Personal Protective Equipment Manufacturer to Locate in Harrisonburg[Full Story]
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.

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
VA WEST Represents the Following Chambers:

Greater Augusta Regional, Bedford Area, Danville/Pittsylvania County, Harrisonburg-Rockingham, Lexington, Buena Vista, & Rockbridge County, Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, Martinsville & Henry County, Montgomery County, Roanoke Regional, Shenandoah County, Smith Mountain Lake Regional, Two Virginias, and Wytheville, Wythe, and Bland.


STAY CONNECTED:

Terry Durkin
Legislative Liaison
 VA West
TDurkin@RoanokeChamber.org
540.682.2111