Latest update from Richmond from Delegate Chris Collins

The 2018 General Assembly session is officially underway. This year will be a long session (60 days) where we will tackle important issues such as healthcare, the opioid crisis, and the teacher shortage across Virginia.

On Saturday, January 13 Governor-Elect Ralph Northam was sworn into office. He is a product of the Senate and someone who has worked well with governors and members of both parties. House Republicans are eager to work with Governor Northam on areas where there is bipartisan support.

House Speaker Kirk Cox
The 2018 House session was gaveled in on Wednesday, January 10th at 12 noon. It started with Republican Delegate Kirk Cox being unanimously elected to be the 55th Speaker of the House. Speaker Cox set a clear tone for the 2018 Session, pledging to focus on governing, work across the aisle, and lead with character and integrity.

Committee Assignments
Committee assignments were announced last week. I am honored to serve on the House Courts of Justice, Transportation and Education committees. I have served on Courts of Justice since the start of my first term in 2016 and was assigned to the Transportation committee during the 2017 session. I am a new member on the House Education committee and look forward to finding solutions to our public school teacher shortage.

2018 Legislation
During the 2018 legislative session, I will be carrying over 20 bills on topics ranging from distracted and improper driving to legislation related to the storage and preservation of adoption records. I am also carrying several bills for local municipalities and constituents in Virginia’s 29th District. I encourage you to view the full list of legislation by clicking on the link below.

Track Legislation

In summary, I encourage you to keep in touch with me and my office over the coming months. I value the feedback you provide on a continual basis as it helps me do a better job of representing you. You can email me at delccollins@house.virginia.gov or call my office in Richmond at (804) 698-1029.
Delegate Chris Collins
117 West Boscawen Street  Suite 1
Winchester, VA 22601