The 2023 session of the General Assembly was difficult and different from past years. Many of our bills were not even assigned to a committee for a hearing. During this legislative session, only three of my eleven bills passed out of committee and came to the floor for a vote. Thankfully they passed.
- HB2080 creates a special license plate to honor women veterans.
- HB2077 requires all attorneys who assist veterans with VA-related claims and appeals processes to provide a written disclosure informing all clients of the free services provided by the Department of Veterans Services.
- HB2224 creates a work group to evaluate the current funding model for the Commonwealth's newborn screening program and provide recommendations for reducing the cost.
All three bills have already been signed into law by the Governor! I am grateful to all of my constituents and the many others who reached out to support my efforts during this legislative session.
In less than two weeks, we will head back to Richmond for the reconvene of the General Assembly. We will deal with budget issues and consider any bills that the Governor has returned with amendments. This is usually a one day session.
We will have to be vigilant when it comes to protecting our voting rights, women’s rights, health care, education, and gun safety measures. These issues are on the firing line.
Thank you for your support and for putting your trust in me.
Sincerely,
Delegate Kathleen Murphy
VA-34
NOVA Housing Expo
The Northern Virginia Housing Expo is a free, public showcase of information, resources, education and individual financial guidance for first-time buyers and renters throughout Northern Virginia. Following 10 years of in-person events, the expo went virtual in June of 2020 and currently features an exhibit hall, regular webinars, and the opportunity to sign up for free one-on-one financial coaching sessions with certified volunteer trainers from local nonprofits.
When: Saturday, April 1, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Where: Dominion High School (21326 Augusta Drive, Sterling)
For information on the Northern Virginia Housing Expo, including the workshops and exhibit hall, visit novahousingexpo.org.
Virtual Learning Series: Youth Homelessness in Fairfax County
Join via Zoom on Thursday, April 13th from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. for a virtual discussion with two local leaders on the subject of youth homelessness. We’ll hear from FCPS Homeless & Foster Care Liaison Kathi Sheffel and Second Story CEO Judith Dittman. Together, Kathi and Judith bring a combined 50 years of experience helping youth in crisis.
The discussion will explore:
- What does youth homelessness look like in wealthy Fairfax County’s public schools?
- Why is it so hard to identify students experiencing homelessness?
- What services are available for students who lack housing?
- How can community members help?
VDOT Lifts Lane Closures to Ease Easter Holiday Travel
To help motorists get to their Easter weekend destinations, VDOT will suspend most highway work zones and lift most lane closures on interstates and other major roads in Virginia for the holiday from noon Friday, April 7th until noon Tuesday, April 11th.
While lane closures will be lifted in most locations, motorists may encounter semi-permanent work zones that remain in place during this time. Check VDOT’s Weekly Lane Closures and Travel Advisories for the latest travel alerts in your area and around the state.