March 26, 2026
The Half Sheet
After Saving Big on Medicaid, It’s Time for Lawmakers to Reinvest
Quality health care is essential to our well-being at any time and, in the midst of a pandemic, Virginia…
Virginia Families Are Facing Hunger and Instability Due to the Pandemic: Legislators Should Use Available Federal Funds and Reserves to Help
Too many Virginia families and small businesses are struggling to stay afloat and pay their rent or mortgage in…
Gov. Proposal Takes Out Almost Three Quarters of A Billion Dollars ($722 M) for PreK-12, Leaves Rainy Day Funds Untouched
Last week, Gov. Northam announced his amendments to the state’s two-year budget that began on July 1. The proposal…
Addressing Barriers to Virtual Learning for Virginia Students
As the new school year begins, students will face a back-to-school environment far more unique than any in modern…
Federal Spending Likely to Continue Stabilizing Virginia’s Economy and State Revenue Through Recession
Virginia has long benefited from the federal government, largely due to the proximity of Washington, D.C. Out of all…
State Can Build on Recent Improvements and Provide Greater Local Revenue Authority
Nationally, state and local governments are on the front lines of addressing the current health and economic crises. In…
The Costs of “Cash Register Justice” in Virginia: Racial Disparities & Poverty Traps
In a quest for revenue, the criminal justice system in the United States has come to rely on court-imposed…
State Lawmakers Have Tax Policy Options to Meet the Moment and Lay Groundwork for Stronger Recovery
Virginia has pressing budget challenges, even as the state is providing additional public services necessary to respond to the…
Latest Data Shows Trend Toward Economic Recovery, but Black Workers and Businesses are Being Left Behind
With economic activity beginning to rebound across the commonwealth and the country in May and June, the latest data…
July is Maternal Health Awareness Month: Black Mothers Deserve Equity
During the 2020 legislative session, the General Assembly enacted House Joint Resolution 111, which designates…
Pandemic Exacerbates Health and Economic Concerns for LGBTQ People of Color
Everyone should be able to access health care and take needed time off to care for themselves or loved…
Schools Face Huge Hurdles in Reopening Safely, Federal Aid Falls Short
Keeping students and school staff safe should be a top priority across the state. While Gov. Northam permitted schools…