More really bad vetoes by Gov. MAGA Glenn Youngkin…for absolutely no good reasons, although he lists arbitrary/nonsensical “reasons” for his decision. Bottom line: Youngkin’s a right winger who’s endorsed the guy who tried – and is still trying – to overthrow our democracy, who campaigned in 2022 for far-right extremists like Kari Lake, etc. Anyone who ever claimed he was a “moderate” should never be taken seriously again.
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From the VA Senate Democratic Caucus:
A Missed Step Forward: Governor Youngkin’s Vetoes Undermine Economic Progress and Justice in Virginia
RICHMOND, VA– This evening, Governor Youngkin announced his latest action on 107 bills, vetoing seven bills. Governor Youngkin’s latest, once again, sheds a spotlight that he is out of touch with Virginians. The forward-thinking measures on the chopping block include SB 1, introduced by Senate President pro Tempore L. Louise Lucas(D-Portsmouth), which would have increased the minimum wage to $13.50 effective January 1, 2025. SB 448, introduced by Senator Aaron Rouse(D-Virginia Beach), would have established a framework for the creation of a retail cannabis market, after years of the status of cannabis legalization lying in a state of limbo. SB 696, introduced by Senator Angelia Williams Graves (D-Norfolk), would have delivered justice by creating a process for those convicted of certain marijuana offenses before July 1, 2021. Members of the Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus released the following statements:
“I am profoundly disappointed by Governor Youngkin’s decision to veto legislation that represented a crucial step toward ensuring financial security for all Virginians. At a time when our Commonwealth faces the challenges of high costs, inflation, and widespread financial hardship, this veto is not just a missed opportunity—it’s a direct affront to the hard-working individuals who keep Virginia moving forward. Raising the minimum wage to $13.50 was a measured, reasonable step towards our ultimate goal of achieving a $15.00 minimum wage, a standard that would affirm our commitment to the dignity of labor and the belief that everyone deserves a fair shot at economic stability. The Governor’s action undermines our efforts to build a more equitable and prosperous Virginia for all,” said Senator L. Louise Lucas.
“It is nothing short of irresponsible for Governor Youngkin to veto legislation that lays the groundwork for a regulated retail marijuana market in Virginia. Over the last three years, the General Assembly has meticulously crafted this legislation to not only establish a safe and regulated market but also to address and combat the proliferation of the illicit market. This veto blocks a pivotal opportunity to advance public health, safety, and justice in our Commonwealth. By dismissing this legislation, the Governor is ignoring the will of the people and the extensive efforts of lawmakers to bring about a responsible and regulated approach to cannabis. His decision is a setback for Virginia, delaying progress and perpetuating the issues we’ve worked so diligently to solve,” said Senator Aaron Rouse.
“It is deeply disheartening to witness Governor Youngkin block the path to justice for countless Virginians with his veto of SB 696. This bill was our opportunity to correct the course for those unduly burdened by convictions for marijuana offenses—offenses that are no longer considered felonies in our Commonwealth. By denying this legislation, the Governor not only overlooks the clear shift in our society’s perspective on cannabis but also refuses a hand of reconciliation and repair to those affected. His decision to veto SB 696 represents a significant missed opportunity to advance justice and equity in Virginia. It’s a decision that leaves a stain on our collective conscience, as we strive to build a more inclusive and fair Commonwealth,” said Senator Angelia Williams Graves.
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