As a SALT (Social Action Linking Together) and Cornerstones advocate, I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable. Regards, Sarah Newman

We strongly support every state hospital providing video visitation in the manner as provided for under HB388. Long distance transportation is hard for some family members, and video visitation allows for the ability to see and hear a loved one for those who do not have the means for regular in-person visits. These visits can be life saving by providing contact with family and hope for recovery. Life during the pandemic has shown have effective and cost saving the technology can be when used in this way. Bruce Cruser, Executive Director Mental Health America of Virginia

As a SALT (Social Action Linking Together) and Cornerstones advocate, I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable. Regards, Sarah Newman

I support video visitation in state facilities.

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

I SUPPORT HB 388, 481, 484, 538, 877, 878, 1012, 1105, 1106, 1211, 1329, and 1342. Also, I object to the language used to describe non-citizens - the word "alien" is dehumanizing and I suggest retiring it permanently when referring to non-citizens. I OPPOSE HB 937 and 1359. It is everybody's right to control their own fertility and to NOT be forced to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term. Both of these bills directly or indirectly undermine that right.

Support HB 388 – Family Video Visitation Should Continue Permanently (also see my statement attached) HB 388 helps ensure that Zoom-type video visitation, which has provided critical connectivity between state hospital residents and their families, continues past the pandemic. Over the past year, video visitation provided critically needed connectivity between hospital patients and their families and friends while in-person visits were suspended. Among its benefits are:  Reducing social isolation. After two years of living through a pandemic, everyone has suffered to some degree from loss of social contact including people in the outside community. It’s important to understand that people with psychological and cognitive impairments tend to be much more isolated to begin with. Their inbuilt isolation is compounded by living in institutional settings.  Helping people with limited resources to stay in touch with family members and friends in the hospital. Zoom-type technology increases the opportunity for people with low-incomes, or lacking the money or means of transportation, to visit and to provide emotional support for patients. Patients in Virginia psychiatric hospitals often end up far from home. For example, forensic patients from Northern Virginia are generally sent to Western State, which is 150 miles from the Falls Church area. Average driving time is two hours and 20 minutes each way.  Allowing parents to see their young children. Hospital rules and restrictions can make it difficult for children to visit their parents in person. Video visitation allowed a mother living in the hospital to see her child for the first time!  Providing all families with a way to supplement hospital visitation by telephone or in-person.  Helping patients prepare for discharge and re-integration into the community.  Increasing hospital accountability through more frequent and complete contact between families and patients. The cost of setting up video visitation is minimal. Western State Hospital purchased Kindles for this purpose within its existing budget. It’s also possible for video visitation to create savings by reducing the burden on staff to administer and supervise in-person visits. The main issue has been overcoming institutional inertia and training staff to help patients schedule and access visits. Hospital social workers and rehabilitation staff who prepare patients for re-entry into the community understand their need to maintain connectivity with family and friends and have been particularly supportive of tele-visiting. Reducing social isolation both increases the likelihood that patients can successfully return to life in the community and decreases the likelihood of relapsing into crises that involve costly hospitalizations.

See attached document: "Ensure video visitation is available to residents of all Virginia psychiatric hospitals and their families: Please enact HB 388." Statement of Karl Polzer to the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee, Virginia House of Delegates

I AM BLACK DEAFBLIND MAN AND I HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH DIFFERENT OF CLOSED CAPATIONED IN ANOTHER STATES. MY EXPERIENCE AS GOING TO WATCH THEATER, I NEVER RECEIVES ANY KIND OF REFUNDED OR ANYTHING WHEN IT COMES TO DEVICES THAT AREN'T FRIENDLY, BROKEN OR NOT ABLE TO CATCH UP WHAT THEATERS COMMENT. IT REQUIRES TO SEE AND MORE ABLE TO HAVE VISION FOR CLOSED CAPTIONING. EVERY TIME I GO THERE, I ALWAYS GET NEW TICKET, THEN COME BACK AND RESULTED IS SAME THING. THERE IS NO BENEFIT FOR ME TO GET ACCESSIBILITY FOR MY NEEDS AND OTHERS FOR DEAF COMMUNITY. THIS BILL NEED TO PASS AND GET STARTING WITH DEVELOPING WORK TOGETHER WITH SHEENA COBB. AMC HAS ONE OF ARTICLE: HERE IS THE LINK, https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2021/10/20/amc-open-captions/

On behalf of Mid-Atlantic NATO, a regional affiliate of the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), representing movie theatres throughout the Commonwealth, we respectfully submit these written comments in opposition to HB 407. Virginia’s movie theaters are committed to access for the deaf and hard of hearing. For over 25 years, the movie theater industry has collaborated with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, advocacy groups, film studios, and technology developers to achieve access to all feature films at all times. Moviegoers in Virginia seeking captions have the flexibility to view a movie with captions at any showtime, on any day. In 2016, the Department of Justice issued a final rule requiring digital movie theaters to provide closed captioning equipment. The DOJ adopted the recommendations set forth in an agreement between the National Association of Theatre Owners and major advocacy groups, including the Hearing Loss Association of America and the National Association of the Deaf. Through these collaborative efforts, today, digital movie theaters in Virginia offer closed captioning equipment (allowing text to be viewable by an individual moviegoer) that can be used at any show time for any movie that comes with captions. Movie theaters in Virginia already work with their local communities to voluntarily schedule open-captioned shows on a regular basis. In addition to closed captioning offerings, where the demand for open-captioned showtimes exists (providing text on the screen viewable by all moviegoers), movie theaters in Virginia work with their deaf and hard of hearing patrons to develop appropriate programming and accommodations. Lawmakers should allow the industry to respond to the marketplace instead of passing an untested “one-size-fits-all” statewide mandate. Our records indicate that the mandate set out in HB 407 would apply to 90 movie theater locations across the Commonwealth with at least four screens. The bill would require these locations to provide open captioning twice per week per film for almost every movie played, with at least one of these showings of each movie occurring during certain “peak” hours established by the bill, regardless of local demographics. Based on the 1,001-screen count across these 90 locations, we estimate that this bill would require over 100,000 open captioned showtimes per year. Historically, the industry has found that when open-captioned shows are mandated, instead of scheduled based on customer demand, theaters see a drop in attendance. Despite assertions to the contrary, attendance data demonstrates that open caption showtimes have a very small turnout, as audiences prefer non-open caption showtimes. Movie theaters were devastated by the pandemic and are struggling to recover. Despite gains over 2020 attendance numbers, box office admissions in Virginia were still 62.5% lower in 2021 than they were in 2019. An untested open captioning mandate such as that set forth in HB 407 would further reduce theater attendance at a critical time for movie theaters’ recovery. Since movie theaters already provide open caption showtimes voluntarily and comply with federal law on accessibility, we believe this legislation to be unnecessary and potentially harmful to their financial viability. For these reasons, we urge you to VOTE “NO” on HB 407.

My name is Tom Dowling from Fairfax VA. I’m a member of Virginia Association of the Deaf (VAD). I’m a deaf consumer and I have a deaf spouse. I have two deaf adult daughters. Please support the bill (HB 407) which focuses on open captioning (OC) in movie at any movie theatre with at least four screens at the same time in our home area. It helps us easily to arrange together to go any theatre which provides any recent released movie with OC. Often, I find any recent released movie has been much delayed until it becomes available, in low demand, for the showing with OC. I feel that we are second class citizens as opposed to other regular and privileged citizens. For every movie theatre, they would be better prepared with the announcement in advance in the media, like scheduling in a prime time twice a week… Thank you!

Please vote YES on HB 407! Under Title III of the ADA, deaf and hard of hearing Virginian's have a right to accessibility of goods and services at public movie theaters. The closed captioning devices provided at most theaters often obstruct a deaf movie goer from the ease of access that the hearing movie goers enjoy. When open captions are provided (the captions appear on the main movie screen) a deaf movie goer can easily access the visual content of the movie right along side the dialogue, with no worries about equipment malfunction or connectivity issues. According to a 2019 study from Netflix - Netflix says 80% of members regularly use subtitles or captions on streaming platform, this shows how common and widely used captions have become. Open captions don't create harm to anyone, but they do reduce barriers for deaf and hard of hearing customers. Please vote yes on HB 407 and vote YES for accessibility at Virginia's movie theaters!

I SUPPORT HB-407, BECAUSE I AM BLACK DEAF ADVOCATE FOR OPEN CAPTION SINCE 2017. I HAVE EXPERIENCE WORK WITH REGAL CINEMAS AND AMC. I HAVE TO EMAIL TO THE HEADQUARTERS TO MAKE THE REQUEST OPEN CAPTION EVERY WEEKDAYS/WEEKEND. THEY TOLD ME TO MAKE DATES AND TIME IN THE 7 DAYS ADVANCE. SOMETIMES THEY DID NOT ACTION WHAT I REQUESTED. MOST OF TIME I RECEIVES DENIED INCLUDED WHEN I REQUESTED TO HAVE OPEN CAPTION ON RELEASE MOVIES THEY DIDN'T DO IT. ITS VERY FRUSTRATED. ITS NOT FAIR FOR OUR DEAF COMMUNITY. WE DID HAVE SOME OPEN CAPTION BY LIMITED TIME BY DAYS, TIMES, AND LOCATIONS. I REQUESTED FOR ALL MOVIES THEATERS TO HAVE OPEN CAPTIONS, BUT NOT ALL MOVIE THEATERS DID NOT HAVE OPEN CAPTION. ITS VERY BURN OUT FOR ME TO KEEP REQUEST FOR OPEN CAPTION DUE TO MANY OF OUR DEAF, DEAFBLIND, HARD OF HEARING, & LATE DEAFNESS WANT TO WATCH MOVIES WITH OPEN CAPTION. YES PLEASE SUPPORT THIS BILL HB407

Comments Document

We need HB 407 passed to protect what we currently have (several Virginia theaters are already offering open captions), expand access where people don't currently have open captions, AND bring the benefits of open captions to many beyond the deaf and hard of hearing community at no cost to either Virginia taxpayers or movie theaters: * autistic * attention deficit disorder * auditory processing disorder * down syndrome * dyslexia * veterans * seniors losing hearing * traumatic brain injury * learning disabilities * children learning to read * adults learning english as a second language * noise sensitive * hearing people who like or prefer captions/subtitles Over 100 studies have already proven the benefits of captions; see https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5214590/. (attached as PDF)

I ask you to pass HB 407 so that after 30 years of ADA we could finally be able to watch a movie with our nonDeaf friends and family? Right now those close caption devices are annoying and not clean. Half the time the battery dies, and we have to dash out to replace the device.. and are missing the movie while taking care of our access. Open captions means it's all there on the big screen and we can BE THERE the entire time comfortably in our own skin without wearing captioning glasses or holding a captioning device. Thank you so much for passing this!! Jenny Witteborg and Raj Witteborg Deaf couple married 39 years Rixeyville, VA

I support the bill which will require some showings to have captions on the screen. This bill will not cost the state anything and it also will help bring more people to the theatres. Captions allow deaf and hard of hearing people to participate in a meaningful social activity with friends and family. Captions are also helpful for persons who are learning English as a second language. With more and more people over 65 who are statistically more likely to have hearing loss, captioned showings will be an important way to keep seniors engaged and involved. I have lifelong hearing loss and sincerely appreciate the ability to enjoy captioned media along with my hearing friends and family. Thank you. Eileen McCartin, Ph.D. (retired educator and current executive director - Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons)

I ask you to pass HB 407 so that after 30 years of ADA we could finally be able to watch a movie with our nonDeaf friends and family? Right now those close caption devices are annoying and not clean. Half the time the battery dies, and we have to dash out to replace the device.. and are missing the movie while taking care of our access. Open captions means it's all there on the big screen and we can BE THERE the entire time comfortably in our own skin without wearing captioning glasses or holding a captioning device. Thank you so much for passing this!! Jenny Witteborg and Raj Witteborg Deaf couple married 39 years Rixeyville, VA

Dear Delegates Head, Walker, Orrock, Hayes, and Tran,  I ask you to pass HB 407 so that after 30 years of ADA we could finally be able to watch a movie with our nonDeaf friends and family?   Right now those close caption devices are annoying and not clean. Half the time the battery dies, and we have to dash out to replace the device.. and are missing the movie while taking care of our access. Open captions means it's all there on the big screen and we can BE THERE the entire time comfortably in our own skin without wearing captioning glasses or holding a captioning device.  Thank you so much for pass this!! Jenny Witteborg  and Raj Witteborg Deaf couple married 39 years Rixeyville, VA 

As a member of Virginia’s deaf/hard of hearing community, I urge action on this bill to legislate open captioning in movie theaters so that our community can enjoy the same access to movie entertainment as all Virginians. Voluntary action by movie theaters is a nice idea but it is not producing the desired result—which has to be more frequent performances at accessible times. Thanks for helping make Virginia a state that is accessible to all in all fields.

I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable.

As a SALT (Social Action Linking Together) and Cornerstones advocate, I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable. Regards, Sarah Newman

As a SALT (Social Action Linking Together) advocate, I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable. Most of us recognize the importance of education to the full realization of our potentials. This is a win for each individual that grasps this opportunity even if never used for employment. Even more, when this opportunity results in more fulfilled persons and a more productive citizenry, we all will be the better for it.

As a SALT (Social Action Linking Together) advocate, I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable. Regards, Mike Gillotte

I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers.

I SUPPORT HB 388, 481, 484, 538, 877, 878, 1012, 1105, 1106, 1211, 1329, and 1342. Also, I object to the language used to describe non-citizens - the word "alien" is dehumanizing and I suggest retiring it permanently when referring to non-citizens. I OPPOSE HB 937 and 1359. It is everybody's right to control their own fertility and to NOT be forced to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term. Both of these bills directly or indirectly undermine that right.

Chairman Orrock HWI & Members: Vote yes for HB 484! SALT 1300 members enthusiastically Support Delegate Helmer’s bill HB 484. HB 484 is a SALT Priority Issue: is to Reform the TANF. The Elimination of the 2-year cliff –would make it possible to better provide TANF parents with opportunities for job training and education to access real jobs that provide opportunities to leave welfare and to be self-sufficient without the need to return to the welfare rolls—in short, to become independent tax payers; Not Tax users. The goal of TANF must be to: convert welfare from a “ dead-end job factory” into “ a Second chance “ for Virginia families. As the past, Deputy Director of Family Services in another state, I know the value of HB 484, so that when we hired welfare recipients, with learned that with additional training they became excellent case management employees with the added benefit of far less turnover. Virginia’s current two-year TANF time limit requires modification in order to accommodate those attempting to move out of poverty via education and training programs. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable. Vote yes for HB 484! John Horejsi jhorejsi@cox.net ---MORE--- Time limit on TANF Benefits • Virginia’s TANF program was established in 1995. • Virginia’s 24-month time limit applies only to TANF recipients subject to work requirements. It does not apply to non-parents (40% of cases), for example. • 79% of former recipients who have exhausted their TANF eligibility have income at or below poverty line; 35% have income below 50% of the Poverty level. • TANF Recommendations: • Education and skills training should be provided to permit adult caretakers to attain their highest practical functional level and, where possible, to achieve self-sufficiency. • Meaningful exemptions to the state 24-month time limit on cash assistance should be provided for parents who are unable to find employment that pays wages at least equal to the poverty line or who lose such employment through no fault of their own.

HB 484 is a SALT Priority Issue: which is to Reform the TANF. The Elimination of the 2-year cliff –would make it possible to better provide TANF parents with opportunities for job training and education to access real jobs that provide opportunities to leave welfare and to be self-sufficient without the need to return to the welfare rolls—in short, to become independent tax payers; Not Tax users. The goal of TANF must be to: convert welfare from a “ dead-end job factory” into “ a Second chance “ for Virginia families. As the past, Deputy Director of Family Services in another state, I know the value of HB 484, so that when we hired welfare recipients, with learned that with additional training they became excellent case management employees with the added benefit of far less turnover. Vote yes for HB 484!

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

Dear Delegate, Protect religious freedom, vote YES for HB 306! Our religious freedoms do not end just because government bureaucrats declare a public health emergency. Our First Amendment rights apply at all times. Thank you, Kellie M. Good

Correction: Please vote YES for house bill 306! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Please vote YES for house bill 106! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

As an aquatic director, the Fairfax County Health Code 69.1 provides my facility with very clear guidelines for safety and facility management. It helps me ensure that we keep a high level of chemical safety, ensure a safe aquatic experience for our customers, and helps me defend having trained staff ready to respond to emergencies. All residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia deserve the same experience, and having the referenced workgroup to help establish some state code guidelines can do that. Please pass HB669 and keep our citizens safer around the water.

I fully support HB 669 - we need all jurisdictions to have some sort of pool regulations moving forward. Thank you! Kat

Comments Document

February 1, 2022 The Honorable Wendell S. Walker House Health, Welfare, and Institutions Subcommittee Pocahontas Building, Room E310 900 East Main Street Richmond, Virginia 23219 The Honorable Christopher T. Head House Health, Welfare, and Institutions Subcommittee Pocahontas Building, Room E210 900 East Main Street Richmond, Virginia 23219 Re: Consideration of House Bill 669 – Public Swimming Pools; Regulations. Dear Chairman Walker and Vice-Chair Head: This bill, directing the Virginia Department of Health to promulgate regulations governing swimming pools and spas for public use and convene a stakeholder work group provide recommendations related to regulations required to be adopted is supported by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA). Currently, the Virginia Department of Health only has authority to govern and promulgate regulations for pools and spas at campgrounds, summer camps, and hotels. Additionally, only 20 local jurisdictions in Virginia have a code that regulates the operations, maintenance, and safety of public pools. HB 669 will drastically increase the safety and welfare of public pools in Virginia and further protect Virginia residents. HB 669 will not take away a local jurisdiction’s authority to enforce or adopt its own operations, maintenance, and safety code for pools and spas or limit its ability to be more stringent then regulations promulgated by the Virginia Department of Health. The proposed legislation will provide a baseline of standards for local jurisdictions to follow in the absence of an established operations, maintenance, and safety code. The bill establishes a workgroup of industry leaders to assist the Virginia Department of Health and provide recommendations related to regulations required to be adopted. Additionally, the establishment of the workgroup creates an environment for industry leaders and the Virginia Department of Health to discuss current and best practices and opportunity for future collaboration. On behalf of the many Virginia pool and spa professionals represented by PHTA, as well as those in neighboring states that do business in Virginia, we respectfully request that you consider moving this important legislation out of your committee. Sincerely, Jason Davidson PHTA, Director of Government Relations jdavidson@phta.org

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

Dear Delegate, Protect religious freedom, vote YES for HB 306! Our religious freedoms do not end just because government bureaucrats declare a public health emergency. Our First Amendment rights apply at all times. Thank you, Kellie M. Good

Correction: Please vote YES for house bill 306! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Please vote YES for house bill 106! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

Dear Delegate, Protect religious freedom, vote YES for HB 306! Our religious freedoms do not end just because government bureaucrats declare a public health emergency. Our First Amendment rights apply at all times. Thank you, Kellie M. Good

Correction: Please vote YES for house bill 306! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Please vote YES for house bill 106! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Hi I am writing on behalf of being a parent of 6 children in chesterfield 4 being in chesterfield county public schools .Has the government lost all common sense ? It's unbelievable that a law would be pass that a 12 year has to give permission for I as her parent an adult would need her permission to access her medical records .My child can not even make a decision on what to wear to school everyday let alone knowing anything medical records or giving her signature to documents or even understanding permission . Try 18 years old then let them decide .when they pay bills and know what the meaning of permission or decisions are.

I fully support the passage of HB916. It makes no sense for a parent to be responsible for a minor in all things yet be denied access to their child’s medical record.

Parents definitely need to be able to access their children’s medical information without their permission. My 13-year-old is not old enough to check his prescriptions order the medication or set up appointments on his own without my parental supervision. This is ridiculous And kids this young are not meant to shoulder such a responsibility. I could not even set up my own child’s health portal on my phone because he is 13 years old so now I cannot access any of his things without him having to have his own account and his own phone so I never can know what’s going on.

As a parent I have a right to my child's medical records without needing their permission

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

Dear Delegate, Protect religious freedom, vote YES for HB 306! Our religious freedoms do not end just because government bureaucrats declare a public health emergency. Our First Amendment rights apply at all times. Thank you, Kellie M. Good

Correction: Please vote YES for house bill 306! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Please vote YES for house bill 106! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

I'm Katie Zhang from the Hamkae Center which organizes Asian American across the Commonwealth. The issue is that there are 20,000 Medicaid enrollees that speak languages outside of English and Spanish. And these 20,000 people face major hurdles getting care because DMAS is unequipped to overcome with language barriers. For the impacted individuals, this means not understanding what their doctors orders are or having no way of doing the application or the follow-up or selecting coverage when all of that is primarily done in English. So this issue of language turns into an issue of health. So we support Delegate Tran's bill - it would unlock the resources we need to break down those barriers and get people taken care of. I ask that you please report this bill because by investing in language access we can investing in a healthier Virginia. Thank you. 

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

Dear Delegate, Protect religious freedom, vote YES for HB 306! Our religious freedoms do not end just because government bureaucrats declare a public health emergency. Our First Amendment rights apply at all times. Thank you, Kellie M. Good

Correction: Please vote YES for house bill 306! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Please vote YES for house bill 106! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

Dear Delegate, Protect religious freedom, vote YES for HB 306! Our religious freedoms do not end just because government bureaucrats declare a public health emergency. Our First Amendment rights apply at all times. Thank you, Kellie M. Good

Correction: Please vote YES for house bill 306! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Please vote YES for house bill 106! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

I am requesting you vote yes on HB 306. The State Health Commisioner has entirely too much power and this bill will protect our citizens from having to submit to unwanted therapies. Too much is being revealed about the Covid 19 vaccines and we can never, never let this happen again Thank you

Vote YES on Bill 306. Our religious freedom is as critical as freedom of speech. Religious exemption is part of that. Please support Bill 306. Vote YES

In regards to HB241, I can personally attest to the need for patients to have access to complex medical equipment when transferring to skilled nursing facilities. I work in inpatient rehab and am appalled that patients have their one means of independence (complex power wheelchairs) taken away just because they require extended care at a long term facility. This must be passed and changed.

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

Dear Delegate, Protect religious freedom, vote YES for HB 306! Our religious freedoms do not end just because government bureaucrats declare a public health emergency. Our First Amendment rights apply at all times. Thank you, Kellie M. Good

Correction: Please vote YES for house bill 306! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

Please vote YES for house bill 106! No one should be punished for exercising their right to religious freedom!!!!!

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society supports HB 1071, to require all hospitals in the Commonwealth to screen each patient to determine household income for Medicaid and financial assistance eligibility, and to require this screening to occur prior to taking extraordinary debt collection actions against the patient. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. Symptoms vary from person to person and range from numbness and tingling to walking difficulties, fatigue, dizziness, pain, depression, blindness and paralysis. The Society has serious concerns about the high risk of medical debt for people impacted by MS and others with specialized and complex healthcare needs. People living with MS may require care from neurology, rehabilitation, mental health and other specialists in addition to other treatments and services. Falls and relapses could require costly emergency department visits and hospitalizations. In order to protect Virginians from high medical bills, especially those currently without health coverage, Virginia hospitals should screen for Medicaid and financial assistance eligibility and help uninsured and underinsured Virginians receive coverage or financial assistance prior to receiving unaffordable medical bills. This legislation provides a great opportunity to screen uninsured individuals and connect them with quality coverage or financial/charitable assistance, which would help to prevent unnecessary stress and financial hardship that comes with high medical bills. According to the Virginia Health Care Foundation, 60.5% of Virginia’s uninsured non-elderly adults have income below 200% FPL, meaning they are very like eligible for Medicaid or a $0 premium plan through the Marketplace. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments in support of the bill. We urge the committee to favorably report this legislation.

As a SALT (Social Action Linking Together) and Cornerstones advocate, I encourage you to support HB 484, with Delegate Dan Helmer as patron. This legislation exempts from mandatory participation in the Virginia Initiative for Education and Work recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families those enrolled full-time in an accredited public institution of higher education or other postsecondary school licensed or certified by the Board of Education or the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and are taking courses as part of a curriculum that leads to a postsecondary credential, such as a degree or an industry-recognized credential, certification, or license. Passing this legislation would make moving off welfare into the workforce a much easier task, which would be a win-win for both those receiving TANF and taxpayers. Post-secondary education, GED, vocational education, and most credentialing programs, as well as apprenticeships, require more than 24 months for the screening, access and completion process. Eliminating the two-year limit is the right thing to do. Preparing adult TANF recipients for jobs to fully support their families should be a primary goal for Virginia. Attaining this goal would be a win-win for both TANF recipients and taxpayers. However, the current two-year time limit on the continuous receipt of TANF benefits is an impediment, making that goal unattainable. Regards, Sarah Newman

I am writing in support of HB 306 to be heard in committee tomorrow morning, which will allow a religious exemption to vaccines during an epidemic. Religious exemptions exist so that citizens can act freely in mind, body and spirit. Even in a time of an epidemic, citizens must have the opportunity to act on their conscience whatever that may be. The Nuremberg Code requires bodily autonomy and informed consent for any medical treatments to one’s body. Having religious exemption makes sure that remains the rule of law. As we’ve seen over the last two years, government has retained control over persons and their bodies in a way that would make Thomas Jefferson role over in his grave. Let Virginia continue to be religiously free, as the birthplace of religious freedom. Support HB 306.

The Federation of Virginia Food Banks strongly supports HB1106. Produce Rx programs have had demonstrated success at improving nutritional intake for food insecure families, and the research is clear that food insecurity correlates with diet-related illness. This bill would come at a critical time, as food banks have seen a sustained increase in demand for emergency food assistance since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Expanding Produce Rx programs would go a long way toward establishing healthier communities while also investing in local agriculture. It's a win-win for Virginians.

I SUPPORT HB 388, 481, 484, 538, 877, 878, 1012, 1105, 1106, 1211, 1329, and 1342. Also, I object to the language used to describe non-citizens - the word "alien" is dehumanizing and I suggest retiring it permanently when referring to non-citizens. I OPPOSE HB 937 and 1359. It is everybody's right to control their own fertility and to NOT be forced to carry an unwanted pregnancy to term. Both of these bills directly or indirectly undermine that right.

HB 1158 TANF Sanctions I’m John Horejsi SALT Coordinator. I wish for you to know that you’re looking at the product of a welfare family. In my case, my Mom died when I was just 3 years old and I then went into relative care. I share this to say 2 things: 1) That is why, I know first-hand the enormous sacrifices poor families make to care for poor kids; and why 2) I wish to emphasize that TANF is a program for Children—to assure that that despite their poverty kids can be raised in their own homes or in relative care—and we know what that means: “Children being raised in relative care. As a former Deputy Director of a Department of Family Services program, –I can tell you from further experience, that there are too many policy hoops that a family has to navigate & comply with, to qualify for stingy amounts of assistance, and that have little or nothing to do with meeting the subsistence needs of families. The most glaring example of this is that, the entire TANF Family is suspended when an adult caretaker does not meet participation requirements. The problem with FULL FAMILY SANCTIONS IS THAT IT PUNISHES THE CHILDREN FOR THE MISTAKES/NEGLECT OF THE ADULT CARETAKERSS! It is simply wrong, punishing needy, dependent children by subjecting them to:  Child & family hunger;  Evictions & Homelessness;  Utility shut-offs; and/or  Loss of needed medical care. It’s Time to Strengthen TANF as a Lifeline by Adopting a Partial Family Sanction! Virginia needs to: END THE FULL FAMIY SANCTION NOW!! Vote for HR 1158 by Delegate Mark Sickles.

In regards to HB241, I can personally attest to the need for patients to have access to complex medical equipment when transferring to skilled nursing facilities. I work in inpatient rehab and am appalled that patients have their one means of independence (complex power wheelchairs) taken away just because they require extended care at a long term facility. This must be passed and changed.

In regards to HB241, I can personally attest to the need for patients to have access to complex medical equipment when transferring to skilled nursing facilities. I work in inpatient rehab and am appalled that patients have their one means of independence (complex power wheelchairs) taken away just because they require extended care at a long term facility. This must be passed and changed.