On the second day of the General Assembly’s special session, the 99 members of the House of Delegates met virtually for the first time ever. Technical difficulties were present at the beginning of the session causing the live stream to not be available. A spokesperson for Speaker of the House Filler-Corn said that the House was at ease during that time while the stream was fixed.
As the stream was eventually made available and the House was officially gaveled into session by Speaker Filler-Corn, the clerk attempted to finish roll call of the Delegates but was interrupted by Republican Leader Todd Gilbert (R-Shenandoah) saying that Delegates Marshal and Davis were unable to join the virtual meeting. This returned the House to being at ease.
The problems were eventually fixed and the session continued without any difficulties until adjournment.
“I think the minority leader did a commendable job of bringing a few glitches to the Speaker’s attention and was pleased to see we took our time to accommodate everyone and make sure they were able to log in at their own pace,” said Delegate Marcus Simon (D-Falls Church) after the House adjourned. “I’m sure tomorrow will go even more smoothly.”
“A lovely sentiment which addresses none of the concerns raised,” said Gilbert’s spokesperson Garren Shipley in response to Simon. “Today’s session was as transparent as a brick wall.”
After the initial problems, the House moved forward for their only action of the day to hear the reading for HR 515.
After Republicans blocked attempts on Tuesday by Democrats to change the rule to allow for immediate virtual meetings, the Delegates have to hear this reading four more times, five in total, in order for Democrats to pass the rule change with a simple majority. Committees and subcommittees will then be able to meet and vote virtually. The House is expected to complete this parliamentary process on Sunday.
After adjournment on Wednesday, Speaker Filler-Corn said she was thankful for the support in helping the virtual meeting take place. “Thanks to all Members of the House and our incredible Clerk’s staff for participating and organizing today’s historic first virtual session!” said Speaker Filler-Corn on Twitter. “We will safely complete the important work ahead of us this session!”
Honorable Mention:
The House Appropriations committee heard a presentation on Governor Northam’s budget proposals Wedndesday afternoon, but like Speaker Filler-Corn noted on Tuesday, the committee can meet, but they cannot vote on anything until Sunday.
In a broad look at spending proposals from the Governor’s budget, he is asking for $1 million for the removal of the Lee Statue on Monument Avenue, $15 million in broadband funding, $25 million to the housing trust fund, $3.5 million for criminal justice reform bills, $2 million for absentee postage, and $300,00 for a diversity office.
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