Delegate Chris Collins: General Assembly session update – February 4

This past week I had the pleasure of meeting with several constituent groups and hearing their thoughts on a variety of pieces of legislation.

I also had the privilege of introducing my friend Lieutenant Warren Gosnell on the House floor Wednesday, January 23. Lt. Gosnell was recognized for receiving the Governor’s Transportation Safety Award for Law Enforcement last year. He also saved three lives by administering Narcan to individuals overdosing on opioids in our area and saved a fourth life by performing CPR to an unresponsive driver who suffered a heart attack behind the wheel. Lt. Gosnell is a dedicated officer to our community and honoring him was well deserved!

Here is his introduction on the House floor:

2019 Legislation

I am proud to say five pieces of legislation I carried were passed unanimously by the House and will now go to the Senate for consideration. The bills were HB2659, HB2464, HB2465, HB1935 and HB1622. HB2301 also passed in the House with little opposition.

Track legislation here.

Tax Relief

Conforming the Tax Code of the Commonwealth to the Federal Tax law is a priority for both chambers of the Legislature. This past Monday, the House Finance Committee passed HB2533 and HB2529. HB2533 will immediately conform Virginia’s tax code to the federal tax code. It will also set aside all increased revenue from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act into a special fund to ensure that those monies will be used for Commonwealth taxpayer relief. HB 2529 allows for itemization of state taxes regardless of how they file their federal return and increase the state standard deduction across the board. It is well understood that Commonwealth citizens are unable to file their taxes until the conformity occurs. I continue to support the process to complete this as soon as possible.

Interstate 81 and Tolls

I-81 and tolling is an issue that concerns everyone. There is little question that I-81 needs improvements in order to make the corridor safer. The House did not approve tolling on I-81 at its most recent Transportation Committee meeting. However, it did pass unanimously to create a committee of both Senators and Delegates to determine the best funding sources for Interstate 81.

Hands Free Driving Bill

HB1811, my Hands Free Driving Bill continues to gain momentum and support. On Thursday, January 31 I joined families and loved ones who have been affected by distracted driving incidents at a press conference. Their tearful stories should serve as a warning to drivers who use smart phones and mobile devices while behind the wheel. The Washington Post covered the event and the full article can be found here.

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.

I will provide you with weekly email updates during the 2019 General Assembly Session and will schedule my Coffee with Chris events after Session to report on important topics and take questions.

Thank you for your support and I look forward to serving you in 2019.