General Assembly back in session after Youngkin amendments

ALEXANDRIA, Va.(DC News Now) — The Virginia General Assembly heads back into session to consider dozens of bills amended by Gov. Glenn Youngkin after lawmakers were on a legislative break.

With the biggest battle expected to be passing the state budget, many people anticipate a heated debate.

Lawmakers are expected to consider the governor’s proposed amendments and a record number of vetoes.

So far, Democratic leaders have signaled they plan to reject the governor’s proposed changes to the two-year budget bill.

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At this time, Democrats do not have enough numbers to override the governor’s vetoes – they will need GOP support.

The General Assembly is expected to consider a host of issues including gambling regulations, minimum wage, recreational marijuana, right to contraception, school construction, and the state budget.

The governor said he will not sign a budget that increases taxes or adds them. That includes a new digital sales tax.

Democrats argue the budget plan would increase revenue for K through 12 education spending and teacher and public worker pay.

“The thing I would put my money on is a lot of noise this week,” said Randolph-Macon College political science professor Rich Meagher.

Lawmakers must reach a budget deal before June 30 to avoid a potential state government shutdown.

“Some action on some bills and then punting on the budget to see what we are going to do over the next few months to try and get something in place by June 30,” said Randolph-Macon.

Virginia’s reconvened session is expected to take one day but can last up to 10 days.

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