Eastern Shore Times

The General Assembly in Richmond is approaching the conclusion of its 46-day legislative session, set to adjourn on February 22. The House plans to work continuously, despite any potential winter weather, to meet this deadline.

Currently, the House and Senate are resolving differences between their respective versions of bills. For a bill to be sent to the Governor for approval or veto, it must pass both chambers in identical form. If there are discrepancies, a conference committee is tasked with reconciling them into a single version, which is then voted on by both chambers.

One significant piece of legislation under discussion involves efforts to address fentanyl distribution. Senate Bill 746 proposes that drug dealers could be charged with felony homicide if they distribute drugs laced with fentanyl resulting in death. An amendment supported by Democrats changed the charge from felony homicide to manslaughter, a move opposed by Republicans but passed along party lines. Despite the amendment weakening the bill, some members hope the conference committee will restore its original form.

In addition to legislative matters, local artist Henry Kidd's work is being displayed outside Delegate Mike Cherry's office. Kidd has painted scenes from Iraq and Afghanistan onto military stretchers. His "stretcher art" will also be exhibited at the Virginia War Memorial later this year.

Recent news articles of interest include discussions on a proposed sales tax surcharge for schools heading to the governor, a ban on DeepSeek AI from government devices following New York's lead, an appointment by Trump of Terry Cole as head of DEA, and scrutiny over a license plate reader bill in the Virginia Senate.

Delegate Mike Cherry expressed his continued commitment to representing his community and offered assistance where needed.