I support HJ26 (light rail) and HJ28 (public transit). I am a 24-year-old law student from Virginia Beach who plans to return to the region after graduating. Many of my friends, however, have left for other cities. A common reason they cite is the lack of strong public transit and a broader sense that Hampton Roads is not fully investing in its future. Instead, they are moving to metro areas like Charlotte, Washington, D.C., and New York City, all of which have robust transit systems and are widely seen as more forward-thinking. I love Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads, but I share their concern. If we want to build a prosperous, unified region that reaches its full potential, Virginia Beach must collaborate with the rest of Hampton Roads on regional transit solutions rather than remaining isolated by short-sighted leadership. These studies will provide a clearer roadmap for how expanded transit can be achieved. Public transit allows low-income residents to fully participate in society (the average annual cost of owning and operating a car now exceeds $11,000), increases convenience for all residents, and promotes economic development, especially when paired with smart zoning around stations. The 2016 light rail referendum reflected public opinion on a specific project at a very different political moment. Since then, Virginia Beach has changed significantly. Tens of thousands of residents have moved in, moved out, or come of age, including myself, as I was only 15 at the time. Treating that vote as a permanent mandate effectively disenfranchises tens of thousands of current residents. Supporting HJ26 and HJ28 will help modernize Virginia Beach, strengthen regional unity, and move Hampton Roads into the 21st century.

United Cherokee Indian deserve recognition stop playing with us .. our history speaks stop playing with us again you steady playing with us in our faces oblivious you folks need to step down from your position due to your actions ain’t working

My name George Craig and I live in Winchester,, VA. I am writing in favor of HB 8 and ask for your support and "yes" vote. It is important for Virginia to be prepared when there is an Article V convention called and to ensure the commissioner sent follow the limitation of their authority. Thank you.