Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Governor Ralph Northam has told lawmakers the Commonwealth is currently $2.7 billion behind projections in its current two year budget. The Governor actually saying this is better than originally thought, and the situation will likely improve by the time the Regular Session of the General Assembly starts in Janaury. Lawmakers are actually back in Richmond today for a special session on the budget and on police reform.
Northam says, however, that the shortfall, combined with a shortfall at the end of the last budget, necesitates not spending on priorities like raises and on reducing tuition. The Governor did, however, ask for money for secure ballot boxes for mail-in votes, postage costs for mail ballots, and for improvements to broadband with many students taking virtual school. The Governor also is looking for money to combat evictions.
The Special Session is expected to take weeks, potentially, to complete.