Caucus aims to fulfill promises made in historic 2017 pick-ups
(Richmond) – In a press conference on Tuesday, the Virginia House Democratic Caucus announced their legislative priorities for 2019. Covering voting rights, education funding, labor protections, and renewable energy, Democratic Leader Eileen Filler-Corn and other members of the Caucus highlighted key bills that they will aim to pass in the short 45-day legislative session.
Today, House Democrats released a longer-term outline of their vision for the Commonwealth, covering an expansive set of priorities in a policy roadmap for Virginia. With a fortified Caucus after picking up 15 seats in 2017, House Democrats convened policy committees over the past year to review and propose priorities for 2019 and future legislative sessions.
“The core of our policy vision is human dignity,” said House Democratic Leader Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn. “Our economy grows when we help our workers thrive, our students succeed when we devote resources to education, and Virginians’ health improves when we clean up our environment.”
“This policy vision is the culmination of studies by experts and advocates, public polling, cumulative years of legislative experience, and conversations with constituents across the Commonwealth,” said House Democratic Caucus Policy Chair Delegate Vivian Watts. “It’s clear that when Virginians elect Democrats, they are choosing inclusive, responsive government, and this document is our promise to Virginia.”
After Democrats flipped 15 previously Republican seats, the House successfully passed Medicaid expansion.
“After our historic victories in 2017, we are focused and ready to fulfill the promises we have made to Virginians for years,” said Caucus Chair Delegate Charniele Herring. “We have made great strides as a Caucus, but our policy vision lets Virginians know our Day One priorities should we win the majority later this year.”