By: Maria- Paula
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin recently issued sweeping vetoes to 157 bipartisan bills, 205 amendments, and 8 line-item vetoes to the bipartisan budget a move seen as moving Virginia backwards.
The critical vetoed legislation was seen as a saving grace that would have delivered meaningful relief and helped working families get ahead and improved public safety. Among the bills Youngkin rejected were those that would have raised the minimum wage, increased workers’ rights, provided paid family and medical leave, and enacted critical measures to enhance gun safety and reduce violence across our Commonwealth.
“ We need a governor that will put Virginians first, not cave to Trump and Musk but once again, Republicans refuse to stand for Virginians, blocking critical legislation that lowers prescription drug costs, raises wages, makes neighbourhoods safer and increases access to healthcare,” said Speaker Don Scott.
Leader Charniele Herring also voiced disappointment by saying such vetoes don’t just block legislation but also block progress.
“ Virginians need leadership that meets the moment and not partisan posturing that leaves families behind,” added Herring.
DPVA Chairman Lamont Bagby in a shared statement also said that Governor Youngkin’s reckless decision to veto the critical pieces of legislation is a clear and brazen act of ignoring the needs and the very real demands of Virginians across the Commonwealth.
Bagby said that instead of standing up for the hardworking families who need help the most, the governor is choosing to advance his extreme, out-of-touch agenda by putting politics before the safety and well-being of Virginian communities.
Chairperson Cathy Tran also shared her opinion by saying:
“ These vetoes are an insult to working people throughout VA who are feeling immense economic stress. Virginians deserve leaders who will stand up for them by uplifting working families, investing in our public education system, and building strong and safe communities.”
Virginians hope now, as they face so many threats, is on the General Assembly which has a duty to review each of the Governors actions ahead of the reconvene when they will vote for each amendment today, the second day of April.
