RICHMOND, Va. -- When the gavel drops at the General Assembly session later this month a flood of legislation affecting all aspects of the lives of Virginians will be considered by our elected leaders.
Some bills are more controversial than others.
House Bill 107 would restore voting rights to people convicted of non-violent felonies upon completion of a sentence. But those convicted of drug felonies and election fraud crimes would not be included.
And House Bill 38 provides immunity for people forcing their way into a vehicle to save animals at risk of serious injury or death -- provided the person attempts to contact first responders.
Shannon Troyka with Henrico Humane Society said shielding someone from prosecution for protecting helpless animals makes sense.
“There are a lot of cases where the animal does die in the car because someone doesn’t feel that they have the right to break into the window and help that animal,” Troyka said.
House Bill 73 would increase the fines for texting while driving. From $125 to $250 for the first offense and from $250 to $500 for the second offense.
Nasir Ali loathes texting and driving, but does not agree with a financial penalty. In fact, Nasir thinks the guilty driver should have their license pulled -- at least temporarily.
“It is dangerous for everyone,” Ali said. “I think they should have their license suspended one week or two weeks.”
House Bill 144 would declare the second Monday in October as Native Americans Day in Virginia. The holiday would coincide with Columbus Day and Yorktown Victory Day.
House Bill 54 states any person who tries to earn money by lying about his or her military status will be guilty of larceny.
Former U.S. Navy Seal John McGuire said anyone who steals valor and lies about serving should be punished accordingly.
“If you want to be a Seal be a Seal. If you want to be a Ranger be a Ranger,” McGuire said. “Well, I think it is disgusting. It is definitely disrespectful to those men and women who protect our freedom.”
The General Assembly Session starts at noon on Jan. 13.
