House Democrats Comment on Budget Ahead of Legislators Gathering in Richmond for Special Session on Budget Amendment
RICHMOND, VA – Legislators will gather in Richmond this week for a special session to vote on the budget agreement offered by the conferees. The agreement represents a victory for the people of Virginia created because Democratic negotiators refused to leave the table until a deal was reached that put hardworking Virginians before profitable corporations. While House Republicans and Governor Youngkin fought for corporate giveaways, the final agreement ensured that there were no tax cuts for big corporations, guaranteed that Virginia families will receive one-time tax rebates, and delivered for our Commonwealth’s veterans.
“This agreement is a victory for Virginians, especially our veterans,” said House Democratic Leader Don Scott. “The House Republicans wanted a budget that prioritized tax cuts for big corporations over every day Virginians, but Democrats refused to let the GOP off the hook until an agreement could be made that invested in the people and the future of the Commonwealth. Democrats will take Virginia forward, and ensure that our government is working for the people – not corporations.”
“The negotiators did the right thing last week by choosing to invest in our children’s futures. The result of these negotiations will mean relief for hardworking Virginians across the Commonwealth. It’s what Democrats have stood for and will continue to fight for in the coming months,” said House Democratic Caucus Chair Charniele Herring.
Budget conferee Delegate Mark Sickles said, “This budget agreement is a big win for Virginians who work hard and expect their government to work hard for them in return. In addition to immediate middle class tax relief, millions of dollars will be invested in K-12 education, teacher pay, secondary education, mental health and workforce training, and health care premiums will continue to be affordable for Virginians. While any budget is a result of give and take between the House and Senate, and between Democrats and Republicans, Delegate Torian and I did our best to ensure that Virginians, and especially our military retirees, received the tax relief they need and deserve without jeopardizing future generations.”
Last session, every House Republican voted in favor of a budget bill that would have provided tax cuts for big corporations, rather than prioritizing our public schools and putting money back into the pockets of hardworking everyday Virginians. House Democrats are committed to ensuring Virginia families get relief, so that they do not have to choose between paying rent and paying for life-saving medications or energy bills.
House Democratic Leader Don Scott is available for interview. Members of the press interested in speaking with him should reach out to Morgan Hopkins at morgan@vahousedems.org.
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