Happy Crossover to all those who celebrate!
“Crossover” marks the halfway point of the General Assembly session. At this stage, legislation must have passed one chamber in order to continue moving forward. Bills that pass the House of Delegates are then considered by the Senate, and vice versa. If you’ve been in as many legislative meetings as we have over the past few weeks, you’ve likely heard more than a few people wish each other a “happy crossover.” And for FACS, it is indeed a happy crossover.
Two of our top legislative priorities have successfully passed the House of Delegates and are now being considered by the Senate. Considering that hundreds of bills (if not thousands) don’t even make it through subcommittee votes, this is a huge accomplishment both in terms of passing meaningful legislation and having an impact on the legislative process.
Our two priority bills that have passed the House of Delegates are:
- Data Center Transparency (HB 153), Bill Patron: Del. Josh Thomas — Requires local governments to have a site assessment measuring noise levels, the impact on water supply, and other critical factors before approving construction of new, high-energy facilities, such as data centers, within 500 feet of residential communities and schools.
- Electric Utilities and Energy Storage Facilities (HB 893), Bill Patron: Del. Rip Sullivan — Increases targets for energy storage capacities and requires the creation of model ordinances for use by localities when reviewing and approving energy storage projects.
Even prior to the official start of the legislative session, FACS was activating dozens of volunteers who were attending town hall forums, holding meetings with legislators, and contacting members of the General Assembly to build support for issues, such as data center transparency and making renewable energy more easily accessible through battery energy storage projects. During session, we’ve continued that momentum with a strong presence during Conservation Lobby Day, countless meetings with key legislators, and publicly testifying on crucial legislation during committee hearings.
FACS’ efforts haven’t gone unnoticed, and I have had several partners, legislators, and members of the general public mention our increased state level work over the last few weeks. We must continue to step up and help ensure we’re able to build on the momentum we’ve already built.
ACTION ALERT: Increase Data Center Transparency (HB 153)!
Virginians need an increase in transparency surrounding the data center industry, especially when it comes to the construction of new data centers and other high energy use facilities. HB 153 would help provide localities with the information they need to fully understand the impact new data centers would have on the surrounding community. Strongly encourage your legislators to vote for HB 153!
Have Any Questions?
If there is a particular question that you’ve always wanted to ask about the General Assembly, or an issue that you want me to inquire about with our various statewide partners, reach out to me at bryan@faithforclimate.org for a conversation.
We also encourage you to check out our General Assembly Hub to identify your legislators and get up-to-date information on key bills, action alerts, ways to engage, important dates, and more!
About the Author
As FACS’ Advocacy Director, Bryan Scrafford can answer all your questions about advocacy on the state and local levels along with legislation FACS is actively supporting. Contact Bryan at bryan@faithforclimate.org.