Virginia Municipal League

Building Better Communities Through Sound Government

Better Communities Through Sound Government

VML eNews, the newsletter of the Virginia Municipal League, is published every other week except during sessions of the General Assembly. During legislative sessions it is published weekly. The newsletter includes up-to-date information on activities at the state capitol, including the General Assembly, and in the U.S. Congress and within the VML family of local governments.

Editor: Kelley Hope  |  Associate Editor: Manuel Timbreza

eNews

In this issue:

Action Alert

Bills of Interest

Health & Human Services

Elections

Transportation

Economy

VML Events

Announcements & Opportunities

Action Alert

Oppose new trash tax

Urge your delegation to VOTE NO on the Governor’s budget language amendment

The Virginia Municipal League and several other organizations asking members to oppose the Governor’s budget language amendment (Item 372 E, page 173 – lines 1-9) which directs the Secretary of Natural Resources, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, to study and develop a plan to require landfill operators pay a State solid waste disposal fee, or a tipping fee, for each ton of solid waste received at the landfill.

This legislation has nothing to do with Special Session objectives and, if passed, will implicitly give approval to a new trash tax fee concept.

This amendment is not necessary. If the Administration wants to put in a trash tax budget amendment during the 2021 session, it does not need a legislative sign-off to do so.

Why you should oppose

  • This is not an issue that should be considered during a Special Session focused on COVID-19 and justice issues.
  • Local governments, residents & businesses are already struggling during these challenging times. This budget item would put an additional economic burden on all Virginians – especially those that can least afford it!
  • Constitutionally, a State tipping fee would have to impact both public and private landfills.
  • Local governments depend on local landfill host fees to meet their budget – in many localities these fees are an important source of revenue. A new statewide tipping fee would drive volume away from both public and private landfills causing budget deficits during an already difficult and uncertain time.
  • While Virginia does not have a state tipping fee, the per ton annual permit fee for landfills funds DEQ’s solid waste program. This is a significant charge to both public and private landfills in Virginia based on the tonnage they receive and generates millions of dollars in annual revenue to the State. Many other states that have a trash tax do NOT have annual permit fees.
  • The legislature on a bipartisan basis has on several previous occasions rejected a “TRASH TAX”.

Supporting organizations

VML Contact: Michelle Gowdy, mgowdy@vml.org

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Bills of Interest

Criminal records bill referred for study

HB5090 (Hurst) would have required criminal investigative files and criminal records to be released in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Currently these records can be released in a discretionary fashion.

The bill was referred to the FOIA Council for study and will be brought back in the 2021 General Assembly Session. VML has a legislative position that supports the FOIA Council reviewing all FOIA legislation before passage.

VML Contact: Michelle Gowdy, mgowdy@vml.org

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Land use bill to be heard by House General Laws committee

SB5106 (Lewis) extends various land use approvals to July 1, 2022. This bill will be heard in the House General Laws committee on the afternoon of Monday, September 21. It is expected that there will be an enactment clause added to the bill that says, “Notwithstanding any provision of law, nothing in this act shall extend any provision under 15.2-2209.1 of the Code of Virginia.”

The Senate has already passed this legislation.

VML Contact: Michelle Gowdy, mgowdy@vml.org

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Health & Human Services

Voting with a disability webinar scheduled for Sept. 21

The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities is hosting a free public webinar on Monday, Sept. 21, from 6:00-8:00 PM on Zoom and via live stream on Facebook to provide individuals with disabilities all the information they need to vote this fall. The webinar will feature a panel discussion and presentation with representatives from the disAbility Law Center of Virginia and the Virginia Department of Elections.

Click here to register to participate on Zoom or visit the Board on Facebook at facebook.com/VABOARD to watch the live stream on Monday, Sept. 21, at 6:00 PM.

The Board has also announced the construction of a brand new web page with information on voting rights, how to register, and more.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Senate Judiciary acts on House police reform bills

There has been no official cross over date for the Special Session, but bills are making their way from one chamber to the other.

On September 16, the Senate Judiciary Committee took up several House bills related to police reform.

As background, the Senate passed one comprehensive police reform bill – SB5030 (Locke) – that addressed issues such as decertification, training requirements, use of force, requirements for executing search warrants, acquisition of military property, etc.  In contrast, the House passed several bills that addressed singular issues related to reform.

The Senate Judiciary Committee conformed many of those House bills to the corresponding section of SB5030 and reported them. Those bills included:

  • HB5029 (McQuinn) – Penalty for failure to intervene in cases of unlawful use of force.
  • HB5051 (Simon) – Expands reasons for officer decertification.
  • HB5069 (Carroll-Foy) – Prohibits use of neck restraints.
  • HB5099 (Aird) – Sets out requirements for executing search warrants.
  • HB5104 Price) – Requires disclosure of disciplinary actions, etc. by Virginia law public safety agencies to similar agencies hiring an officer.
  • HB5108 (Guzman) – Adds representatives to the Criminal Justice Services Board and training committee.

The committee also conformed the following House bills to corresponding Senate bills and reported and referred to Senate Finance and Appropriations:

  • HB5043 (Bourne) Creates a Marcus alert system and requires creation of community response teams to address mental health crisis situations. (this bill was referred to Senate Finance and Appropriations).
  • HB5055 (Herring) Addresses creation of civilian review panels.

The committee passed by indefinitely HB5112 (Levine). That bill addressed duty to report unlawful behavior of a fellow law enforcement officer, which is also addressed in SB5030 (Locke).

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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School COVID-plan bill reported

On September 17 the House Committee on Health, Welfare, and Institutions reported SB5083 (McClellan) that requires each school board to post on its website its plan/strategies for mitigating the spread and public health risk of the COVID-19 virus that the school board is required to submit to the Department of Education before reopening schools in accordance with the Commonwealth’s Phase II and III guidelines. The bill contains an emergency clause.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Elections

No-excuse early and absentee voting across Virginia began today

Lines at registrar’s offices stretched for as long as four hours in some localities as voters turned out for Virginia’s first day of no-excuse early voting in a national election cycle. This year, Virginia joins six other states (Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wyoming) to offer early voting at least 45 days before an election. Unlike most other states, however, Virginia also allows registrars to begin counting votes prior to an official election day. This means that, even more so than in previous years, policy analysts will be looking to Virginia as an early indicator of national trends, particularly in the presidential election.

Important dates to remember for this election cycle:

  • Eligible U.S. citizens can register to vote through October 13, 2020. The fastest way to register is via the Virginia Department of Elections website; however, one can also register at their local DMV office (note: hours of operation may be different under the current state of emergency).
  • Online applications to vote by mail are open now! Submit your application through the Virginia Department of Election’s Voter Portal. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is October 23, 2020.
  • Election Day, which is now a statewide holiday, is Tuesday, November 3, 2020.

VML Contact: Jessica Ackerman, jackerman@vml.org

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Transportation

Commonwealth Transportation Board meets; discusses budget amendments

The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) held its September meeting this week. The CTB discussed the Governor’s transportation budget amendments that the General Assembly is expected to consider but to date has taken no action on. These three budget amendments would provide:

  • CTB with the authority and flexibility to address transportation revenue deficits through cash management strategies.
  • DRPT with the ability to act on behalf of the newly created Virginia Passenger Rail Authority.
  • DRPT with stability for the agency’s operating budget.

It is unclear when the General Assembly will act on these amendments.

Possible local impacts

Members should be aware that projects receiving state funding through the Six Year Improvement Program could be impacted by the cash management approach requested by the CTB. While the intention is that this approach will not negatively impact existing projects, VML continues to monitor this proposal and how it will affect transportation projects.

Use of federal funds approved

The CTB also approved funding of transit systems using federal funds as part of action taken for the 2020-2025 Six-Year Improvement Program. Funding approved included $61.7 million for transit operations, $3.2 million for human service providers, $1.5 million for operating assistance for rural transit providers, and more than $550,000 for Transit Demand Management programs.

To see individual funding allocations, refer to Attachment A on pages 58-62.

VML Contact: Mitchell Smiley, msmiley@vml.org

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Economy

Tough budget times aren’t going away

Or “If the Past is Prologue, then Expect More of the Same.”

The Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee met earlier in the week to hear from Aubrey Layne, the Secretary of Finance, and the directors of the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) and the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC). The presentations offered more than a glimpse to Virginia’s economic future along with state and local budget fallouts.

Secretary Layne delivers some good news (with caveats)

In his presentation to the Committee and his monthly report to the Governor, Secretary Layne pointed out that in the first two months of Fiscal Year 2021, total general fund revenues had increased by 11.6 percent compared with the projected revenue decline of 1.8 percent. That good news was flooded by the cold water flung by Secretary Layne when he pointed out that August is not a significant month for revenue collections that derive mainly from withholding, sales taxes, and other sources that have regular monthly payments.

September collections will complete the first quarter of fiscal year 2021 and provide a clearer assessment of revenue growth, according to the Finance Secretary. The first estimated payments from individuals, corporations, and insurance companies are due in September. The estimated payments or non-withholding income tax collections have proven critically important in determining the accuracy of past forecasts. Non-withholding is perhaps the most difficult revenue to forecast and the success of that forecast very often depends on the final quarter’s collections.

However, the information collected in September are the last data points used in the new revenue forecast Gov. Northam will release December 16 (just three months from today) for the 2021 legislative session. The public confidence in the December forecast will likely hinge on the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the increase or decrease in economic activity, and even the November election. The Finance Secretary acknowledged the challenges in budgeting because of the pandemic and other uncontrollable variables tied to a new Medicaid Forecast for the 2021 Session, the current (and future?) decline in transportation revenue collections, and the state’s economic dependency on federal spending.

VRS reports on investment performance

Patricia Bishop, Director of the Virginia Retirement System, and the VRS Chief Investment Officer Ronald Schmitz followed Secretary Layne and walked the Senate money panel through the VRS FY20 investment performance.

The unfunded liability of pension funds for teachers rose as market returns lagged on investments by Virginia’s $82 billion retirement system.

The funded status of the state’s two biggest pension funds, state employees and teachers, dropped in the last fiscal year to about 71 percent, down from about 75 percent the previous year. Funded status represents the amount of money available in the Virginia Retirement System trust fund to pay for future retirement benefits and other liabilities for state employees and teachers. At the close of FY20, the unfunded liability in the teacher retirement fund stood at $12.8 billion. There are over 151,000 teachers in VRS along with over 110,000 local government employees.

The decline will not affect the rates that Virginia and its local governments pay for their share of employee retirement costs in this biennium, but that could change if VRS does not improve its investment performance.

VRS will review the status of state pension funds, including the retirement plan for teachers, in October and for local governments in November, based on the results of an actuarial valuation of the retirement plans on June 30. The review will show any effect of market performance on rates, but the results will not change rates in the budget for state and local government employers. The board will certify new rates in the Fall of 2021 for the 2022-24 budget, based on an actuarial valuation of the plans on June 30, 2021.

As part of the presentation, VRS offered an estimate of future contribution rates in fiscal years 2023 and 2024 for the teacher retirement plan. As might be expected, the estimates rise and fall depending on asset returns. The contribution rates for instructional positions recognized under the Standards of Quality are split funded between the state and local school divisions depending on a locality’s composite index. Teacher positions in addition to those in the state Standards of Quality are the full funding responsibility of the locality. The state funding contribution for these positions is zilch.

ABC offers “gray machine” fun facts

Travis Hill, the ABC CEO made the final presentation to the Senate committee. Of interest to local governments was Mr. Hill’s “fun facts” about Virginia’s one-year authorization of games of skill (a.k.a. “gray machines”).  Under legislation enacted in the 2020 Session, the distributors pay a $1,200 monthly tax to the Virginia Department of Taxation for each machine that was in play in the previous month. Under the legislation, 12 percent of the tax collections are distributed to localities (based on where the machines are located).

According to ABC, 87 distributors have registered in Virginia, representing some 10,291 machines. The July tax revenues collected by the Virginia Department of Taxation were over $12 million. Distributors reported $176.4 million wagered on skill games and $135.4 million in prize winnings.

The authorization for the games expires on June 30, 2021. Given the opposition expressed by the chair of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee, the ranking minority leader in the Senate, and Governor Northam, the odds that the expiration date will be pushed to a later year are too small for a prudent investor.

On a more sobering note, in good economic times or bad (or in times of relative health or full-blown pandemic), alcohol sales continue to rise. The ABC CEO reported that the state agency experienced holiday-like demand this past May. Only six days during the 2019 Fall Holiday Season eclipsed May’s shipments.

Profitability and transfers to the state treasury have also increased with contributions to the Commonwealth over the last seven-years climbing to $3.2 billion.

It is important to point out that Virginia’s cities, towns, and counties once shared in the profits and taxes, receiving a total of $8.5 million in fiscal year 2007. However, the General Assembly stopped these appropriations to localities as a cost-savings measure during the Great Recession. The appropriations have never been restored. Over the last ten years, ABC profits have gone from just under $125 million to $212 million.

More of the same?

How all this information will factor into the General Assembly’s review of the budget revisions proposed by the Governor for the Special Session are anyone’s guess. Neither the House Appropriations Committee nor the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee have held extensive meetings on the budget and any possible modifications to Northam’s proposal. If the past is prologue (with all due apologies to Shakespeare), the legislature’s actions may not be far reaching in scope. And quite possibly, the 2021 Session may be more of the same for state revenues and expenditures.

VML Contact: Neal Menkes, nmenkes@vml.org

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VML Events

2020 Mayors Institute happening September 24; agenda now available

From improving the current infrastructure to preparing for autonomous vehicles, local communities are moving toward the future. Learn how you can meet the needs of a new generation of citizens at the Virginia Mayors Institute. The program exposes mayors and vice mayors to issues essential to their roles as local government leaders.

The 2020 Mayors Institute will be held virtually on Thursday, September 24 from 10:00 AM – 3:15 PM.

More information, including the agenda and a link to register, are available here >.

VML Contact: Jessica Ackerman, jackerman@vml.org

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Annual Conference kits begin being mailed next week

Register by September 25 to ensure timely delivery

If you’re already registered for this year’s conference, happening virtually October 7-8, keep an eye on your mailbox for a box full of items both practical and whimsical to complement the event.

If you’re not already registered, but plan to attend, we urge you to register as soon as possible to ensure timely delivery.

Note: Please register no later than September 25 to ensure receipt of conference kit.

A preliminary agenda and the link to register are available here >.

Confirmed speakers include Governor Ralph Northam, Dr. Susan T. Goode who will speak on equity issues, and Rebecca Ryan who will discuss how localities can recover from the pandemic “Better than Before”. Representatives from the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council and the Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council will conduct sessions that will satisfy the training requirement for local elected officials. Plus, there will be breakout sessions and roundtables on numerous topics of interest to localities, Local Champion Awards highlight reels and VML’s annual business meeting…and more!

Keep an eye on VML’ website (at the link above) for more details coming next week.

Thanks to our exhibitors!

Pre-conference begins October 5th with the Virtual Exhibit Hall:

  • American Public University System
  • Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.
  • CIMCON Lighting, Inc.
  • Cunningham Recreation/GameTime
  • Dominion Energy
  • Hurt & Proffitt
  • ICMA-RC
  • Keystone Information System, Inc.
  • Land Planning and Design Associates, Inc. (LPDA)
  • Mosca Design
  • Moseley Architects
  • Municode
  • National League of Cities
  • No Kid Hungry Virginia
  • Pierce Group Benefits
  • Polco/National Research Center
  • Precision Safe Sidewalks
  • SGC Power
  • Spring City Electrical
  • The Berkley Group
  • Thompson & Litton
  • VACORP
  • VC3
  • Virginia American Water
  • Virginia Housing
  • Virginia Institute of Government, Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service
  • Virginia Risk Sharing Association (VRSA)
  • Visit Loudoun
  • VisitNorfolk
  • VML/VACo Finance
  • Zencity

VML Contact: Sandra Harrington, sharrington@vml.org

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Announcements & Opportunities

GWTCA informational page about the FCC proposed order now available

The Government Wireless Technology & Communications Association (GWTCA) has made available an information page on the FCC’s recent release of a draft decision to have states lease 4.9 GHz spectrum (previously used exclusively for public safety) to non-public safety users.

This resource will be updated as more information becomes available.

VML Contact: Michelle Gowdy, mgowdy@vml.org

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Resilient Virginia’s Fall 2020 “Resiliency Academy” Series kicks off September 23

Resilient Virginia is hosting a Fall 2020 Resiliency Academy webinar series that highlights Four Resiliency Planning Guides that your community can use to build the capacity to maintain critical functionality and vitality in the face of severe disturbances and chronic stressors. The need for overarching and inclusive resiliency plans that integrate health, equity, social and economic concerns with ever-increasing climate disasters has been highlighted by the current COVID pandemic’s impact on communities.

U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit: September 23, 1:00–2:30 PM

David Herring, Director of Communication & Education at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Program Office, will demonstrate the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit. This toolkit is a robust website of resources designed to help people find and use tools, information, and subject matter expertise to build climate resilience. It was developed as an inter-Agency initiative that operates under the auspices of the United States Global Change Research Program. The workshop provides an opportunity to find out more about this extensive toolkit that includes a data site that projects climate changes down to the county level, outlines the steps involved in resiliency planning, and highlights case studies.

Register to reserve your seat at this webinar.

Resilient Virginia Contact: Tracy Garland, Director, Events and Social Media, Garland@resilientvirginia.org

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In this issue:

Special Session

Utilities

Elections

Health & Human Services

Economy

VML Events

Announcements & Opportunities

 

Special Session

Updates on legislation of interest to localities

These bills with implications for localities saw action this week.

Workers’ compensation presumption bills for COVID-19

SB5066 (Saslaw) was heard in Senate Finance this week in what Senator Howell said would be the last day to hear bills. This proposal provided a rebuttable presumption for law enforcement officers, firefighters, first responders, correctional officers, and health care providers. In a last-minute substitute, however, the committee added “eligible teachers,” defined as primary and secondary teachers who provide in-person, in-class instruction for 2 or more days per week.  Also, during the meeting, they added regional jail workers to the bill. As outlined by the legislation, an individual is deemed to have contracted COVID-19 at work unless a preponderance of competent evidence is to the contrary.

Status: SB5066 was not reported out of the committee as many of the members expressed concerns over the cost of this bill.

HB5028 (Jones) is also a workers’ compensation presumption bill. This bill has passed the House and includes the same classifications of employees as SB5066 except correctional officers and adds School Board Employees (which is a rather broad term).

Status: This bill has been referred to Senate Commerce and Labor.

Qualified immunity

HB5013 (Bourne) was heard by Senate Judiciary on Thursday. There has been a lot of discussion and frustration surrounding this bill which would ban law enforcement from using qualified immunity as a defense to a civil action for deprivation of rights claim as outlined in the legislation.

Status: HB5013 was referred to a Senate/House Committee (if the House agrees) to study the issue. This issue will continue to be discussed and VML fully expects to see further legislation relating to qualified immunity.

Attorney General authority

SB5024 (Lucas) authorizes the Attorney General to file a civil suit, inquire into or seek to conciliate, through the Division of Human Rights, any unlawful pattern and practice against the Commonwealth or a locality when there is reasonable cause to believe that law-enforcement is engaging in a pattern or practice which deprives persons of rights, privileges, or immunities protected by law. The Attorney General may also enter into a conciliation agreement (if appropriate) which may include ineligibility for funding from the Commonwealth.

Status: SB5024 has passed the Senate. The House companion HB5072 (Lopez) has passed the House and been referred to Senate Judiciary. The House bill does not currently include the loss of funding provision.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

HB5090 (Hurst) requires criminal incident information to be disclosed to include any reports, notes, and electronic communications but allows victim or witness information to be withheld in certain circumstances. This bill also allows for law enforcement or the attorney to the Commonwealth to petition the court to withhold appropriate information.

Status: HB5090 has passed the House.

Quarantine leave

HB5116 (Guzman) mandates paid quarantine leave for employees who work 20 hours or more per week. This legislation has been amended several times and is expected to be amended several more times.

Status: HB5116 has passed the House. Stay tuned!

VML Contact: Michelle Gowdy, mgowdy@vml.org

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Utilities

Utility debt repayment legislation improved

Legislation regarding utility debt repayment programs, SB5118 (McClellan), was amended by the Senate Appropriations and Finance Committee this week and then advanced to the floor for consideration by the Virginia Senate.

The amendments approved in committee exempt municipal utilities from the debt repayment components of the bill and changes the requirement for municipal utilities to report information about accounts with accrued balances so that reporting is now required to certain House and Senate committee chairs upon request. Prior versions of the bill sought to have municipal utilities report this information to the State Corporation Commission, which would have set a dangerous precedent, or the Commission on Local Government. Senator McClellan has stated that the reporting requirement are necessary to inform the General Assembly prior to future decisions regarding rate increases needed to recover costs incurred from debt repayment plans. VML does not believe the reporting component is necessary because municipal utilities can already set their own rates. However, we do believe this is a significantly improved piece of legislation in its present form.

VML supports this legislation and we ask that the Governor also support it.

Senator McClellan and members of the Senate heard from localities across the Commonwealth on this issue and the improved legislation is a result of this feedback. Thank you to everyone who reached out to their legislative delegation on this important issue.

VML Contact: Mitchell Smiley, msmiley@vml.org

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Budget language regarding utility disconnections remains a concern

VML continues to be concerned that budget language mandating a utility disconnection moratorium will impact locally owned utilities. Our position remains that the Governor should use a portion of remaining federal CARES funds to assist individuals with account balances directly. This could be done by providing grants to pay accrued utility balances to those experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID recession. While we recognize that revenue replacement is an ineligible expenditure, we maintain that existing Treasury Department guidance provides clear authority for the Administration to use unobligated balances to directly provide cash assistance payments to individuals with utility account balances to prevent utility disconnections. Direct assistance would more effectively address the needs of individuals unable to make utility payments than any utility disconnection moratorium is likely to do.

VML Contact: Mitchell Smiley, msmiley@vml.org

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Elections

Absentee voting legislation approved by General Assembly and Governor

Following debate on the House floor last Friday, SB5120 (Howell) passed the House on its third reading and was approved by Governor Northam. This bill and its House counterpart HB5103 (Sickles) address three primary components of the November 3rd election that will affect localities:

  • Prepaid postage: The legislation includes $2 million to reimburse localities for the cost of including prepaid envelopes with absentee ballots requested by voters ahead of the upcoming election. Registrars have been informed that, should the costs of postage exceed $2 million, additional funding will be made available by the state.
  • Ballot drop boxes: Voters who are unable to either vote in person or mail in their absentee ballots may instead drop off their completed absentee ballots at designated locations prior to Election Day. Security requirements for such boxes will include either in-person monitoring, which comes at no additional cost to localities where drop boxes are installed at the local registrar’s office, or video surveillance equipment, for which localities must pay.
  • Ballot Curing: Finally, the legislation permits local registrars to contact voters who have submitted improperly completed absentee ballots prior to Election Day. This will involve additional staffing requirements to both inspect ballots prior to their insertion into ballot boxes and to contact voters.

VML Contact: Jessica Ackerman, jackerman@vml.org

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Countdown to November: 53 days to Election Day!

Following a push by the General Assembly to increase voting access during the 2020 Session, November 3rd will look a little different from previous Election Days in Virginia. As a reminder, all registered voters are now eligible to vote early, whether in-person at either their local registrar’s office or a satellite location, or absentee by either mailing in or dropping off a ballot at a designated drop box. The following are some important dates to remember over the next several weeks:

  • Eligible U.S. citizens can register to vote through October 13, 2020. The fastest way to register is via the Virginia Department of Elections website; however, one can also register at their local DMV office (Note – hours of operation may be different under the current state of emergency).
  • Online applications to vote by mail are open now! Submit your application through the Virginia Department of Election’s Voter Portal. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is October 23, 2020.
  • In-person voting begins September 18, ,2020. Check your local registrar’s website to determine hours and locations of availability prior to Election Day.

Regardless how you choose to do it, don’t forget to vote!

VML Contact: Jessica Ackerman, jackerman@vml.org

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Health & Human Services

Policing reform bill narrowly passes Senate

On a vote of 21-19 the Senate of Virginia passed SB5030 (Locke) on Sept. 10. This is the comprehensive policing reform bill that made its way through both the Senate Judiciary and Senate Finance and Appropriations Committees.

As previously reported in eNews, this bill includes the following provisions:

  • Expanded decertification requirements, including new statewide standards of conduct for police and jail officers and appropriate due process procedures for decertification based on serious misconduct in violation of those standards;
  • Restrictions on types of equipment obtained/purchased from the U.S. Department of Defense;
  • Additional training curriculum and requirements for law enforcement training/recertification;
  • Additional law enforcement reporting requirements (to include demographic and other information about “stop and frisk” pedestrian encounters based on reasonable suspicion as well as all other investigatory detentions that do not result in an arrest or the issuance of a summons (these are in addition to requirements for such information for all motor vehicle stops approved during the regular 2020 session);
  • Restrictions on use of no-knock search warrants and use of force/deadly force; and
  • Required intervention by an officer if another officer is attempting or using unlawful force against an individual.

The bill will allow the state to deny a locality’s HB599 funding if a locality fails to report its motor vehicle/pedestrian “encounter” data to State Police. (Please note that the state can already deny 599 funds if a locality doesn’t report accurate crime data to State Police); or to freeze that distribution if a police department is not accredited by DCJS or a national accrediting body by 2024

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Senate Marcus alert/community response bill advances to the floor

Earlier this week the Senate Finance and Appropriations reported and sent to the Senate floor SB5038 (McPike), which is the Senate’s version of a Marcus alert/community response team bill to address response to individuals in a behavioral health crisis. The House has already approved its own version –  HB5043 (Bourne)

SB5038 contains some of the same elements as HB5043 but allows for the development of protocols for response instead of a single response model.

The Senate bill requires the state to establish a Marcus alert system and community care teams written plan by July 1, 2021, and requires every locality to be served by a Marcus alert system and protocols for law enforcement to participate in a Marcus alert system approved by state by July 1, 2022. The House bill phases in that system over six years.

Unlike the House bill, the Senate bill would require every locality to establish a database by July 1, 2021, for individuals with mental health, behavioral health diagnosis, developmental or intellectual disability, or brain injury or their guardian or caregiver to voluntarily provide information for 911/response purposes.

Finally, the bill would require the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) to develop a comprehensive crisis service continuum with such funds as may be appropriated, based on national best practices models. The requirement for a comprehensive crisis service continuum is important and the need for such is long-standing. However developing such a system with “such funds as may be appropriated” is a concern because state funding for behavioral health needs has ebbed and flowed over the last 40 years and there are many needs in the system that also require more state funding.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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State stresses importance of seasonal flu vaccines

Preparations underway for COVID-19 vaccine

The Virginia Department of Health continues to encourage everyone who can get a seasonal flu vaccine to do so. Flu vaccines are widely available across the Commonwealth. Facts about the flu can be found here: Frequently Asked Questions Flu 2020/2021 Season

In related news, the state’s vaccination advisory workgroup met Sept. 3 to prepare for a COVID-19 vaccination (when one becomes available). This workgroup reviews information from the CDC and will identify critical occupational groups in each jurisdiction (such as front line health workers, emergency, education and other essential services) and ensure relationships and plans are in place to get any COVID-19 vaccine distributed for use. The workgroup includes representatives of several state agencies, local health departments, state associations representing hospitals and health care systems, pediatrics, assisted living facilities, pharmacists, and drug stores.

For more information about that workgroup, go to the VDH COVID-19 webpage and select the link to the Partner’s Call Vaccination Update 9-11-2020. It includes information about the steps necessary to bring a vaccine to market and the groups involved in the state’s vaccination advisory workgroup.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Economy

Federal Reserve Bank changes role from “Inflation Fighter” to “New Jobs Champion!”

The Federal Reserve’s new strategy (as outlined by Chairman Powell on August 27) puts more weight on bolstering the labor market and less on worries about high inflation. Calling full employment “a broad-based and inclusive goal,” the new policy statement pledges that the U.S. central bank will make policy decisions based on “shortfalls from full employment.”

The new language signals the Fed will continue to combat unemployment that is too high, but that it won’t raise the alarm over unemployment falling too fast or too far, as it had done in the past. The goal is to push unemployment down to bring more workers to the labor market.

Before the coronavirus pandemic hit, the U.S. unemployment rate had fallen to near 50-year lows, and there was no sign of an inflation surge. The new framework takes that lesson into account, leaving room for the Fed to keep policy loose even as employment increases.

While the new approach could mean higher prices for food and other essentials, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said in explaining the shift, that it’s a price worth paying to keep inflation from dropping too low and for achieving a stronger labor market. The Federal Reserve will essentially base decisions on interest rate increases on when inflation overshoots the Bank’s long-held 2 percent inflation target.

Measures seek to bring some relief

The Fed’s switch from inflation buster to job creator will not occur overnight. In the meantime, the country and the Commonwealth continue to struggle with the current unemployment landscape.

The Virginia Employment Commission announced last week that it expects to begin distributing $300-a-week in additional unemployment benefits in “about two and a half weeks,” which would fall on the week of Sept. 20.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency approved Virginia’s application to participate in the relief program President Trump established through an executive order issued at the end of August. The $600-a-week emergency benefits that Congress approved expired in late July.

It is unclear how long the benefits will last, but officials are reported as saying that they will be paid retroactively to Aug. 1. That means recipients should receive at least three-weeks’ worth of the benefits when the money begins to flow, but subsequent weeks could be delayed. Unlike the previous benefits boost, the federal funds are coming not from the U.S. Department of Labor but from FEMA. The federal emergency agency is capping initial grants at three-weeks’ worth of benefits and requiring states to reapply for the benefit each subsequent week. Trump capped spending on the program at $44 billion, which would be enough to cover between five and six weeks of benefits depending on how many states sign up.

About that August unemployment rate report…

On September 7, we learned that the August unemployment rate in the U.S. was 8.4 percent with 1.4 million new jobs created. This good news is somewhat tempered by the fact that almost 240,000 of the new workers were taking temporary positions with the U.S. Census and payrolls remain 7.6 percent less than February’s payroll numbers. If hiring continues at the August pace, it would take eight or nine months to recover all the jobs lost since the pandemic began. Also, the opening and closing of schools, and the closing of childcare facilities, will slow down the return of many workers, particularly women, to the labor market.

The table below depicts the explosive increase in unemployment resulting from COVID-19.

Meanwhile in Virginia…

The economic news in Virginia is brighter than the national statistics. Total payroll employment inched upwards by 9,300 jobs or 0.2 percent in July. The unemployment rate inched downward by 0.1 percentage to 8 percent, which was 5.3 percent higher than the prior year. And home ownership leaped 77.5 percent over June’s numbers and 58.2 percent over July 2019 figures.

The nascent economic recovery still has a long way to go. The July unemployment rates in Virginia’s cities are grim and are not likely to shrink to 2019 levels anytime soon.

VML Contact: Neal Menkes, nmenkes@vml.org

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VML Events

VML Mayors Institute happens September 24

Mark Funkhouser confirmed as guest speaker

From improving the current infrastructure to preparing for autonomous vehicles, local communities are moving toward the future. Learn how you can meet the needs of a new generation of citizens at the Virginia Mayors Institute. The program exposes mayors and vice mayors to issues essential to their roles as local government leaders.

The 2020 Mayors Institute will be held virtually on Thursday, September 24 from 10:00 AM – 3:15 PM.

More information, as well as a link to register, are available here >.

Just confirmed: Mark Funkhouser will address the conference. Mark Funkhouser, president of Funkhouser & Associates, is a municipal finance expert and former mayor of Kansas City who has served as a government official, elected leader, and publisher of Governing magazine. He draws upon these experiences to take you beyond the basics and offer five sets of practices that make communities fiscally stronger, more resilient, and better prepared for the challenges ahead.

VML Contact: Jessica Ackerman, jackerman@vml.org

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New preliminary agenda now available for 2020 VML Annual Conference

Register now to receive your conference kit in time

The latest preliminary agenda and the link to register for the virtual conference happening October 7-8 are available here >.

While the conference itself may be virtual, VML will be mailing actual boxes filled with items (both useful and fun) to all registered attendees ahead of the event. As such, we encourage those interested in attending to register as soon as possible. Early registration will ensure adequate mailing time.

Confirmed speakers include Governor Ralph Northam, Dr. Susan T. Goode who will speak on equity issues, and Rebecca Ryan who will discuss how localities can recover from the pandemic “Better than Before”. Representatives from the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council and the Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council will conduct sessions that will satisfy the training requirement for local elected officials. Plus, there will be breakout sessions and roundtables on numerous topics of interest to localities, Local Champion Awards highlight reels and VML’s annual business meeting…and more!

VML Contact: Sandra Harrington, sharrington@vml.org

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Announcements & Opportunities

COMLINC 2.0 coming soon

Localities will need to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement

The Commonwealth’s Link to Interoperability (COMLINC) is being upgraded and fully deployed across the state. COMLINC ensures that localities can communicate and coordinate with state agencies on the Statewide Agency Radio System (STARS).  It also enables communication and coordination between localities and with federal agencies. Every 911 center will receive an upgrade or initial install before January 2023.   The project includes a sustained training and maintenance program.  All system costs including equipment, training, and sustainment are funded by the state.  Equipment installations, training, and maintenance will be coordinated with each locality and include a site visit before installation.

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) will accompany COMLINC 2.0. Each participating local government will have to enter into the MOA however, it is expected that there will be no cost to local government for COMLINC.

The MOA template is available at:  https://www.pshs.virginia.gov/homeland-security/homeland-security-new/interoperability/.

The MOA covers system governance, operating procedures, maintenance, and training. Virginia State Police and the Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security will work with each locality for mutual agreement and signature.

For questions about COMLINC 2.0 and the MOA: Tom Crabbs, Statewide Interoperability Coordinator, thomas.crabbs@governor.virginia.gov or 804 370 0694.

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VDH convenes the 2021 Virginia Walkability Action Institute (VWAI)

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has begun the 2021 Virginia Walkability Action Institute (VWAI). Through this competitive application, five interdisciplinary local/regional teams will have an opportunity to receive travel assistance to attend the VWAI in-person (if permitted) and virtual learning sessions and receive technical assistance and other resources from state and national experts as they develop plans for improving walkability and active transportation in their communities.

Selected teams will join our statewide efforts to increase walking and walkability to decrease obesity and chronic disease burden as VDH strives to make Virginia the healthiest state in the nation!

Please review the VWAI Announcement and VWAI Application Overview to learn more about the VWAI including eligibility, requirements, commitment, application scoring, and important dates.

Interest webinar

The Interest Webinar will be held on September 24, 2020 from 2:00pm – 3:00pm. The Interest Webinar will address the purpose and intent of the VWAI, the application and selection processes, and participation requirements. Click here to register for the Interest Webinar.

Eligibility

All teams must consist of a minimum of five members of which a public health representative from an LHD must serve as the team lead contact person AND at least one representative with knowledge/expertise in the field of transportation. Other team members may represent local government, healthcare, and community– and faith-based organizations.

Accessing the application

Access the VWAI application here.

Deadline: 11:59pm on Tuesday, October 20, 2020  

VDH Contact: Megan Lopes, MPH, Healthy Communities Coordinator, megan.lopes@vdh.virginia.gov

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Resilient Virginia offering a series of free webinars

See below for dates and descriptions. More information and registration forms are available here >.

U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit

September 23 | 1:00–2:30 PM

David Herring, Director of Communication & Education at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Program Office, will demonstrate the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit. This toolkit is a robust website of resources designed to help people find and use tools, information, and subject matter expertise to build climate resilience.

Community Resilience Planning Guide for Buildings and Infrastructure

October 21 | 1:00–2:30 PM

Chris Clavin, Research Environmental Engineer at the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Community Resilience Group will present their Community Resilience Planning Guide. This guide not only provides direction on how to plan for and implement measures to improve community resilience, it also introduces science-based tools to measure resilience and evaluate alternative strategies to achieve it.

Resilient Rural America Project

November 11 | 1:00–2:30 PM

Gwen Griffith, Program Director with the Model Forest Policy Program (MFPP), with Ned Gardiner, NOAA’s Climate Visualization Project Manager, will present the Resilient Rural America Project training. RRAP consists of online modules to guide rural leaders and consultants through a process of risk assessment, identification of resilience strategies, and taking action.

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VAGHC Governor’s Housing Conference opportunities

Conference registration, scholarships, and nominations for Virginia Housing Awards

Mark your calendar for the virtual 2020 Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference Nov. 18-20. Join the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (VAGHC) for this three-day event of educational sessions led by experts in housing, finance, and community development, as well as unique networking opportunities with colleagues from across the commonwealth.

View the conference schedule and register here >.

Note – Registration will cut off on Friday, Nov. 13.

Scholarship applications for the conference are still being accepted!

The Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference connects Virginia’s affordable housing providers with funders, lenders, realtors, nonprofits, public officials, and resources to improve housing in Virginia’s communities.

The partners of the Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference have set aside funds to be used as scholarships for nonprofit organizations, local governments, and students. Nonprofit organizations, local governments and students are an important part of the delivery of housing and community development services, but due to budget restraints, may not be able to attend the conference. Student scholarships will be geared toward those students who are majoring or interested in the delivery of housing or sheltering services, community or economic development or other appropriate activities designed to sustain healthy and safe communities. Scholarships cover the cost of the conference registration only.

This is a competitive application process and all requested information must be submitted to be eligible for the scholarship. Scholarships cover the cost of the conference registration only. Applications will be ranked based on financial need and statement of interest. Applicants who have not received a scholarship in the past will be given priority.

Apply here >.

Submit your nomination today for the 2020 Virginia Housing Awards!

Each year, one of the conference’s highlights is the Virginia Housing Awards recognition, which highlights this year’s award-winning innovative and effective efforts that address our housing and community needs. All awards will be presented during this year’s VAGHC. The six award categories for 2020 include:

  • Best Affordable Housing Development
  • Best Housing Program or Service
  • Best Housing Preservation/Revitalization Effort
  • Inclusive Community Award
  • Best Regional Partnership
  • Outstanding Rural Housing Development

Submit your nomination here >.

Nominations must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, 2020.

For more information about the Virginia Housing Awards, contact Rhonda Spear at (804) 371-7000 or rhonda.spear@dhcd.virginia.gov.

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In this issue:

Action alert follow-ups

Health & Human Services

Elections

VML Events

Opportunities

 

Action alert follow-ups

Utility disconnection initiatives takes two steps forward, one step back

This week’s Special Session of the General Assembly saw significant movement on utility disconnection initiatives in both helpful, and less than helpful, directions.

Two steps forward on legislation

SB5118 (McClellan) was amended by the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee last week to exclude municipal utilities from the emergency debt repayment program. Discussions continue, and VML believes there will be further changes to this legislation, including possible changes to reporting requirements. These changes for the better would not have been possible without robust efforts by VML members in response to our action alert. Thank you!

One step back remains in the budget

Despite the improvements to SB5118, it’s important to bear in mind that budget language (HB5005 Item 4-14, #7 and SB5015 Item 4-14, #7) imposes a utility disconnection moratorium and the development of 12-month repayment plan. Municipal utilities are not exempt from this budget language. We expect this language to evolve in the coming days, however we encourage you to reach out to your state delegation to let them know how these proposals will impact your locality.

As previously communicated, VML asserts that the state should use federal CARES funding to assist customer utility balances directly instead of through disconnection moratoriums. We continue to make this point to lawmakers and the administration.

VML appreciates our members’ commitment to this issue. We will issue new action alerts next week if the released budget language persists in its impact to municipal utilities.

VML Contact: Mitchell Smiley, msmiley@vml.org

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Sovereign immunity bill defeated on House floor

HB5013 (Bourne) was defeated on the House floor today. This bill would have corroded the concept of Sovereign Immunity for localities that employ or contract with law-enforcement officers. Strengthening and maintaining the principles of sovereign immunity for local governments and local officials is a long standing VML position.

The bill was defeated by a very narrow margin (47-Y 48-N 3-A).

VML asks that over the weekend you thank your delegation members that voted against it or abstained in case the bill is revived next week (as it was earlier this week when it was reconsidered after being defeated in the Appropriations committee).

For more information on the bill and VML’s position, view our previous action alert on the legislation.

VML Contact: Michelle Gowdy, mgowdy@vml.org

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Health & Human Services

Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) substitute bill adopted by Appropriations

Another substitute for HB5043 (Bourne), which addresses CITs was discussed and reported by the House Appropriations Committee on September 4.

The substitute bill still requires the establishment of regional mental health awareness response and community understanding services (Marcus) alert systems and community response teams across the Commonwealth, but phases in this program over six years instead of six months. It also includes an examination of existing CIT programs and initiatives before programs are begun under the requirements of this bill.

The substitute bill includes the following components:

  • Requires the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) to develop de-escalation training with a focus on mental health, substance use disorder and behavioral health crises as part of law enforcement training curriculum.
  • Adds a new section to the Code of Virginia addressing the Marcus alert system and community teams including the goals, definitions, and make-up of such teams (mental health service providers, registered peer recovery specialists and law enforcement with the mental health providers as the lead for such teams).
  • Requires state agencies along with representatives of local government, law enforcement, emergency management, mental health, substance abuse, behavioral health, brain injury, and racial equity groups to inventory past and present CITs that have received state funding (some get federal funding); inventory CSB mobile crisis teams and crisis stabilization units, and identify any other cooperative efforts between CSBs and law enforcement agencies; review prevalence of crisis situations involving mental health/substance use, brain injuries and co-occurring disorders and identify state and local funding of emergency and crisis services.
  • Requires this group to submit a detailed report and plan to the Joint Commission on Health Care by June 1, 2021.
  • Requires DBDHS to establish by July 1, 2021, five Marcus alert programs and community care teams in the following regions:
    • Region 1 – geographic area served by Northwest Virginia CSB
    • Region 2 – geographic area served by Alexandria CSB
    • Region 3 – geographic area served by Mount Rogers CSB
    • Region 4 – geographic area served by Richmond BHA
    • Region 5 – geographic area served by Hampton/Newport News CSB
  • Requires that five more Marcus alert/community care teams be established in each of the five Department regions by July 1, 2023, excluding those already selected in the first round.
  • Additional Marcus alert/community care teams will be established in geographic areas served by a CSB/BHA by July 1, 2024, July 1, 2025, and July 1, 2026. That last date is the deadline by which time all CSBs/BHAs will have established a Marcus alert system that uses community care teams.

The bill carries a significant fiscal impact for the state; the local fiscal impact will become clearer as work on the needs of various regions and the extent of future state funding for teams is determined.

And while the bill addresses an alert system and community response teams, the issue of follow-up/extended services necessary to meet the needs of a person in crisis will have to be addressed.

Another CIT-related bill (SB5038 – McPike) has a substitute coming as well and will be addressed by the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee at some point in the next week or so.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Body-worn camera bill assigned to committee

HB5135 (Bell et al.), which would require every local law enforcement agency to purchase and deploy body-worn cameras, has been assigned to the House Public Safety Committee. It is unclear if or when this committee will next meet because the Special Session has not included regular committee meeting days and times (as is the case during a regular session).

VML will provide updates as they become available.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Law enforcement reform bill clears Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee

SB5030 (Locke) is a comprehensive bill addressing law enforcement reform. In its present form, items addressed by the legislation include (but are not limited to) the following components:

  • Expanded decertification requirements.
  • Restrictions on the ability to obtain/purchase equipment from the U.S. Department of Defense.
  • Additional training curriculum and requirements for law enforcement training/recertification.
  • Additional law enforcement reporting requirements (to include demographic and other information about pedestrian encounters – this is added to the new requirements for such information for all motor vehicle stops that were approved during the regular 2020 session).
  • Restrictions on use of no-knock search warrants and use of force/deadly force.

The original bill included several instances in which state assistance to local law enforcement funding (known as HB 599 funds after the original bill establishing the program in 1980) could be denied; the substitute deletes some of those situations but still allows the funding to be denied if 1) a locality doesn’t report its motor vehicle/pedestrian “encounter” data to State Police. (Please note that the state can already deny 599 funds if a locality doesn’t report accurate crime data to State Police); and 2) allows funding to be frozen if a police department is not accredited by DCJS or a national accrediting body by 2024.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Civilian review board bill reported from Senate Finance and Appropriations

SB5035 (Hashmi) authorizes but does not require the establishment of police civilian review boards by cities and counties with police departments. This bill was reported by the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee on Sept. 3.

The bill allows current boards to continue to operate and authorizes a locality to establish the policies and procedures for the performance of duties by the oversight board. The substitute considerably expands the reasons why an oversight body would retain outside counsel. Outside counsel would be paid for by the locality.

A House bill, HB5055 (Herring) also allows current boards to operate but differs from the Senate measure in that it requires cities and counties  – including those with sheriff’s departments that provide law enforcement coverage – to establish such boards. That measure passed the House.

VML Contact: Janet Areson, jareson@vml.org

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Elections

Expanded support for absentee voting moving through General Assembly

Building upon gains made during the 2020 session, the General Assembly this week reviewed legislation to expand voting accessibility and encourage early voting ahead of the November election. Citing increased safety needs in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the House has passed both HB5103 (Sickles) and SB5120 (Howell) – the only bill to have been approved by both bodies thus far in the special session

The legislation includes $2 million to help localities cover the cost of prepaid postage tied with mail-in absentee ballots, requires general registrars to establish drop-off locations for voters who would prefer not to mail in their absentee ballots, permits the reissue of absentee ballots in the event that the first ballot becomes soiled or otherwise unusable, and directs registrars to contact voters whose absentee ballots are unclear or damaged upon arrival to confirm their votes.

The Senate has so far only passed its own version of the legislation, having passed by HB5103 for the day Friday. Importantly, this delay could arguably impact the applicability of the legislation to the November 2020 election cycle, as changes to polling places are barred fewer than 60 days before an election. Members of the General Assembly have cited differing interpretations of whether drop boxes will qualify as polling locations. While the Office of the Attorney General had previously received approval from a federal court to establish drop boxes, it is unclear whether that approval would apply past the 60-day date.

Kanye West, removed from Virginia ballots by a Richmond judge earlier this week ahead of the November general election, could not be reached for comment.

VML Contact: Jessica Ackerman, jackerman@vml.org

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VML Events

2020 VML Mayors Institute registration now available

Please be aware that this year’s event will be separate from the Annual Conference

From improving the current infrastructure to preparing for autonomous vehicles, local communities are moving toward the future. Learn how you can meet the needs of a new generation of citizens at the Virginia Mayors Institute. The program exposes mayors and vice mayors to issues essential to their roles as local government leaders.

The 2020 Mayors Institute will be held virtually on Thursday, September 24 from 10:00 AM – 3:15 PM.

More information, as well as a link to register, are available here >.

VML Contact: Jessica Ackerman, jackerman@vml.org

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Register early for VML Annual Conference to VML Annual Conferencereceive mailed conference kits in time

Conference to be held October 7-8. Last day for refunds is September 10.

While the conference itself may be virtual, VML will be mailing actual boxes filled with items (both useful and fun) to all registered attendees ahead of the event. As such, we encourage those interested in attending to register as soon as possible. The deadline for refunds is September 10. Early registration will ensure adequate mailing time.

A preliminary agenda and the link to register are available here >.

Confirmed speakers include Governor Ralph Northam, Dr. Susan T. Goode who will speak on equity issues, and Rebecca Ryan who will discuss how localities can recover from the pandemic “Better than Before”. Representatives from the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council and the Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council will conduct sessions that will satisfy the training requirement for local elected officials. Plus, there will be breakout sessions and roundtables on numerous topics of interest to localities, Local Champion Awards highlight reels and VML’s annual business meeting…and more!

Stay tuned for more details about this year’s event as they are confirmed.

VML Contact: Sandra Harrington, sharrington@vml.org

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Opportunities

Grants available for small business recovery in Montgomery County and towns of Blacksburg and Christiansburg

Application deadline is September 20

Montgomery County and the Towns of Blacksburg and Christiansburg have established a grant fund to support small business recovery in response to COVID-19. One-time grants of up to $27,500 are being provided to offset business impacts during the pandemic. The grant program will be administered by all three localities in partnership with the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Blacksburg Inc., Downtown Christiansburg Inc., and the Blacksburg Partnership. Funding for the Small Business Recovery grant program is provided by the 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

To be considered for funding, small businesses must meet specific eligibility criteria and provide required documentation. Businesses not eligible include banks and financial services, non-profits, franchise businesses (except those locally owned and operated) and businesses that are permanently closed or not currently in operation. Future recovery grant opportunities may be available for childcare centers and non-profit organizations.

There are a number of eligible grant uses, including but not limited to, payroll expenses, lease and mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, equipment purchases, and more. Expenses incurred before March 15; those reimbursed by other federal or state funds; or items not deemed ‘necessary’ are ineligible.

Guidelines

  1. Completion of the grant application outlining the use of funds by September 20. For full details, and to complete the online grant application visit one of the following sites:
  2. Maximum amount of grant ranges from $500-$27,500
  3. One (1) application per business establishment
  4. Funds will be reviewed by a grant review committee and awarded at one time
  5. Grant distribution is scheduled to begin in October or November 2020, but the distribution timeline may vary depending on the locality administering the grant and on demand.

For additional information or questions, please email grants@blacksburg.gov.

Businesses may also contact one of the following community partner organizations:

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  • eNews September 18, 2020 In this issue: Action Alert Oppose new trash tax Bills of Interest Criminal records bill referred for study Land use bill to be heard by House General Laws committee Health & Human Services Voting with a disability webinar scheduled for Sept. 21 Senate Judiciary acts on House police reform bills School COVID-plan bill reported Elections…
  • eNews September 11, 2020 In this issue: Special Session Updates on legislation of interest to localities Utilities Utility debt repayment legislation improved Budget language regarding utility disconnections remains a concern Elections Absentee voting legislation approved by General Assembly and Governor Countdown to November: 53 days to Election Day! Health & Human Services Policing reform bill narrowly passes Senate Senate…
  • eNews September 4, 2020 In this issue: Action alert follow-ups Utility disconnection initiatives takes two steps forward, one step back Sovereign immunity bill defeated on House floor Health & Human Services Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) substitute bill adopted by Appropriations Body-worn camera bill assigned to committee Law enforcement reform bill clears Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee Civilian review board…
  • eNews August 28, 2020 In this issue: VML Events 2020 VML Mayors Institute registration now available Governor Northam to address VML Annual Conference Special Session Legislation Updates on bills of interest to local governments Problematic utility legislation advancing during the Special Session Bill to compel use of body-worn cameras by local law enforcement introduced Economy Economic Peek-a-Boo Opportunities Funding…
  • eNews August 21, 2020 In this issue: Legislation: Action Alerts: Oppose HB5013 and SB5089 Water and wastewater utility disconnection moratorium legislation introduced Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) bills reported and sent to Finance Comprehensive policing bill reported and sent to Senate Finance & Appropriations Other Special Session bills of note for localities Economy: Proposed budget changes will stress local finances…
  • eNews: Action Alert – Aug. 20, 2020 Oppose HB5013 which corrodes local sovereign immunity At-a-Glance House Legislation HB5013 Senate Legislation Sen. Lucas co-patron Bill Patron Delegate Jeffrey M. Bourne (804) 698-1071 Cities and Towns Potentially Impacted:  All Localities that employ or contract with law-enforcement officers. Current GA Committee: Expected to be referred to House Courts of Justice VML Staff Contact Michelle Gowdy,…
  • eNews: Action Alert – Aug. 18, 2020 Oppose Utility Disconnection Moratorium Legislation At-a-Glance Legislation:  Draft language Scope: Municipal and private utilities providing electric, water, or gas service Current GA Committees: Senate Commerce and Labor Saslaw (Chair) Norment Newman Obenshain Lucas Spruill Edwards Deeds Barker Marsden Ebbin Lewis Surovell Mason Bell House Labor and Commerce Ward (Chair) Sullivan (Vice Chair) Kory Keam Lopez…
  • eNews August 14, 2020 In this issue General Assembly General Assembly Special Session begins Tuesday, August 18 Economy Virginia’s “Misery Index” improves? Updated FAQs: Analysis of CARES Act Funding Questions now available Reminder to complete JLARC survey Health & Human Services COVID-19 update from VDH Transportation Declining transportation revenues likely to be considered during Special Session VML Announcements VML…
  • eNews August 7, 2020 In this issue: General Assembly General Assembly sets meeting sites for special session Housing DHCD asking for input from localities regarding rent and mortgage relief activity Transportation Local Assistance Division training for federal project administration update Virginia Breeze bus service adds new routes Health & Human Services Mental health commission hears about response and needs…
  • eNews July 31, 2020 In this issue: Member Opportunities: Save the date: VML member webinar with VDEM Friday, August 7th Invitation to join emergency NLC call on direct federal aid to localities VML Updates: VML policy committees hold July meetings VML 2020 Annual Conference registration now open VML executive committee member Jill Carson featured in interview series Health &…
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