Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia has vetoed a significant number of bills related to labor and gun laws, frustrating Democrats who had hoped to reintroduce legislation from last year. Youngkin vetoed 158 bills, signed around 600, and amended 160 others. He also submitted 205 amendments to the budget bill and issued eight line-item vetoes.
The bills that Youngkin vetoed aimed to create a recreational marijuana retail market in Virginia, raise the minimum wage, and stop the sale of certain semi-automatic firearms. The governor’s actions have drawn criticism from Democrats, with Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell calling them disappointing.
Youngkin also blocked legislation related to labor reform, energy, and prescription drug affordability, citing concerns about costs, lack of necessary funding, and impacts on patient access to essential medication. However, he supported measures to prevent the use of campaign funds for personal expenses.
The Democratic-led legislature is set to reconvene on April 2 to review the governor’s vetoes and amendments. While lawmakers would need a two-thirds supermajority to override Youngkin’s vetoes, they only need a simple majority to reject his amendments. Ultimately, the governor will have the final say on any legislation that reaches his desk after the upcoming legislative session.
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