Virginia State Delegate Mike Cherry announced on May 1 that the General Assembly met twice in April to conduct business, with ongoing work on the state budget. The update covers recent legislative sessions, the status of the state budget, lawsuits related to a redistricting referendum, and new laws signed by the Governor.
The update is important as it addresses key issues affecting residents across Virginia, including potential impacts on local taxation and school safety measures. Cherry said he hopes these monthly updates are helpful and informative.
During the Reconvene Session held on April 22, no new legislation was considered. Instead, legislators reviewed amendments proposed by Governor Spanberger and had opportunities to override her vetoes. “The Governor vetoed eight bills, including one that would create a new tax on mattresses in order to fund a statewide mattress recycling program. She also vetoed a bill that would permit Fairfax County to construct a casino. None of her vetoes were overridden,” Cherry said. He added that amendments regarding recreational marijuana markets and collective bargaining for public employees were not debated but passed over by Democratic majorities in both chambers: “Both bills now sit on the Governor’s desk in their original form.” According to Cherry, if signed into law, collective bargaining could cost Colonial Heights $12.5 million and Chesterfield $200 million.
Budget negotiations remain unresolved after special sessions ended without agreement since March 14. Cherry reported little progress among budget conferees due to disagreements over revenue sources such as data center taxation: “There is not yet a timeline for that, but it is worth noting that the new fiscal year begins July 1.” A budget must be approved before then to prevent a government shutdown.
Last week’s redistricting referendum authorized the General Assembly to redraw Congressional districts after passing with a narrow margin; current maps more closely reflect voter distribution than alternatives proposed earlier. Lawsuits challenging how this amendment reached ballots are being heard by the Virginia Supreme Court; decisions may arrive by mid-May or slightly later if additional arguments are consolidated into one ruling.
Cherry also highlighted two recently enacted laws: House Bill 1140 directs guidelines for law enforcement use of confidential informants following past incidents resulting in loss of life; House Bill 1387 allows automatic revocation of teaching licenses for individuals convicted under sex offender statutes—measures intended to improve community safety.
Cherry was elected as Republican representative for Virginia’s 74th House district in 2024 according to available records.
