Eastern Shore Times

As summer concludes and the school year begins, preparations are underway for the 2025 General Assembly Session. Despite being labeled as “part-time,” legislative work continues throughout the year. Many legislators, including myself, have attended policy conferences in Virginia and neighboring states to address various issues affecting our state.

In this update, several key actions within state government are highlighted, along with a preview of upcoming elections.

**Executive Order 35**

Governor Youngkin issued Executive Order 35 this August to bolster election security ahead of the November general election. The order emphasizes stringent ballot security, thorough counting machine testing, and comprehensive voter list maintenance. "I have heard from many individuals across our district concerning election security in advance of this year’s election," stated Governor Youngkin. He added that these measures ensure confidence in Virginia's election results.

**Upcoming Elections**

This November's elections will include significant federal races and a proposed amendment to the Virginia Constitution alongside local elections across the state.

*Constitutional Amendment*

Virginia voters will decide on an amendment that expands tax exemptions for surviving spouses of service members killed in action or in the line of duty. "I encourage you to vote yes on this constitutional amendment," said Governor Youngkin, emphasizing its importance in recognizing military sacrifices.

*Local Elections (Colonial Heights only)*

Colonial Heights voters will elect four City Council members and three School Board members. Local elections often impact daily life more than federal ones, making informed voting crucial. The Colonial Heights Republican Committee has conducted a candidate survey available for public viewing.

Chesterfield County does not have local elections scheduled for 2024.

**Record Lottery Profits Benefit K-12 Schools**

The Virginia Lottery reported record profits of $934 million in August 2024, announced by Governor Youngkin. These funds are earmarked for public K-12 education as mandated by amendments to the Virginia Constitution adopted in 1987 and 2000. "This is good news for public schools in Chesterfield and Colonial Heights," noted Governor Youngkin while cautioning that increased funding should directly benefit classrooms to improve student outcomes.

**In the News**

Recent news articles include:

- Supreme Court strikes down Biden-Harris Title IX change

- Governor announces plan to prevent Virginians from returning to prison

- Trump praises Youngkin’s election security measures

- Remembering former Virginia First Lady Roxane Gilmore

- Rising Virginia revenues prompt calls for tax reductions

Governor Youngkin concluded by expressing his commitment to representing the community and assisting with state-related issues.

Sincerely,

Mike Cherry