Thread by @GovernorVA

Today I'm highlighting several of my priorities for the upcoming special session of the General Assembly, which is set to begin next Tuesday, August 18th.

Virginians are hurting right now—and the Commonwealth is stepping up.

First, we must do everything possible to keep Virginians in their homes.

That's why I'm proposing $88 million in state funding to increase affordable housing and combat evictions, on top of the $55+ million we're spending in rent and mortgage assistance through CARES Act money.

I'm also proposing a pause on evictions until at least April 30, 2021, tied to the requirement that landlords and tenants work together on a payment plan and seek out financial assistance, including through @VADHCD's statewide Rent and Mortgage Relief Program.

@VADHCD I have been fighting for years for universal broadband—and as many schools go virtual this fall, access to the internet is more important than ever.

So I am proposing a record $85 million to expand broadband infrastructure to Virginia communities that need it.

@VADHCD I'm also proposing a $15 million investment in Virginia's public Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

HBCUs play an essential role in reducing educational inequities, many of which have been made worse by the #COVID19 crisis.

@VADHCD This session is an opportunity to take long overdue action on police reform.

My top priorities include standardizing mandatory training requirements (including on use of force), empowering civilian review boards, and making it easier to de-certify bad officers.

@VADHCD I look forward to continuing discussions with lawmakers—now and in advance of next session—as we increase police accountability, transparency, and community engagement.

@VADHCD Careful planning has kept Virginia from having to gut critical services in the midst of this crisis. We should all be proud of that. 

I look forward to advancing these and other important issues next week, as we continue to protect the health and well-being of Virginians.