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Hi I am writing to you on behalf of The Well Connection UK, a media and publishing company. We could easily get virginia.gov featured in various publications such as magazines, online blogs and news sites. This would undoubtedly help virginia.gov with publicity, reputation, domain authority and organic search engine rankings. We have a wide range of options including completely free collaborations, sponsored posts, guest posts and banner ads. If this sounds of interest, please reach out to the senior business development manager, Anita at info@thewellconnection.co.uk and whatsapp +447395206515 (GMT) Kind regards Clifton Junior Outreach Assistant

Comments Document

AdvaMed and the AdvaMed Medical Imaging Division are writing in support of HB 230, a bill increasing access to medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging by eliminating the burden of patient cost-sharing.

Comments Document

Good morning, My name is Genise Smith-Watkins, and I am the State Policy & Advocacy Manager for Susan G. Komen. I am reaching out in support of HB 230, which will eliminate cost-sharing for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging. For clarity on the scope of the bill, we have included the definitions of diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. Widespread access to preventive screening mammography is available to millions of women as a result of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Unfortunately, most individuals at a higher risk of breast cancer or those requiring follow-up imaging due to an abnormal mammogram result face hundreds to thousands of dollars in patient cost sharing for this required imaging – all before they are even potentially diagnosed with breast cancer. Early detection of breast cancer is not possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. A Komen-commissioned study found the out-of-pocket costs for patients to be high, with much variation for diagnostic breast imaging. For example, the average patient cost for a mammogram is $234, and for a breast MRI, $1,021. The study also found that the inconsistency in cost and coverage is a recognized concern among patients, and health care providers. This leads to additional stress and confusion for patients who are already dealing with the daunting possibility of a breast cancer diagnosis. As committed partners in the fight against breast cancer, we know how deeply important it is for all cancer patients to have fair and equitable access to breast imaging that may save their lives. As such, we support HB 230 and urge you to pass this critical legislation, which eliminates burdensome out-of-pocket costs for patients. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Genise Smith-Watkins

Comments Document

January 23, 2024 Good afternoon, The undersigned patient and provider organizations, which advocate on behalf of the Virginia breast cancer community, encourage your support of House Bill 230. If passed, this legislation would increase access to medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging by eliminating burdensome patient cost sharing. Studies show that individuals facing high out-of-pocket costs associated with diagnostic and supplemental imaging are less likely to complete their recommended follow-up imaging. This can mean the person will delay care until the cancer has spread to other parts of the body making it much deadlier and more costly to treat. While access to preventive screening mammography is available as a result of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), unfortunately, individuals at a higher risk of breast cancer and those requiring follow-up imaging due to an abnormal mammogram result face hundreds to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs. An estimated 12% of individuals require additional follow-up imaging after an abnormal mammogram. Early detection of breast cancer is not possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental imaging would improve access and utilization of the services, allowing more timely diagnosis of breast cancer. This change could also lead to improved health outcomes and reduced costs to the health care system. Sponsored by Delegate Shelly Simonds, Delegate Delores McQuinn, Delegate Jeion Ward, Delegate Kannan Srinivasan, and Senator Barbara Favola, House Bill 230 is scheduled to be heard in the VA House Labor and Commerce Subcommittee #1 on January 23, 2024. As committed partners in the fight against breast cancer, we know how deeply important it is for people to have fair and equitable access to breast imaging that may save their lives. We respectfully urge your support of House Bill 230 and encourage its passage through its first committee stop (VA House Labor and Commerce Subcommittee #1). Thank you for your leadership and continued commitment to Virginia. If you have any questions, please reach out to Genise Smith-Watkins, Susan G. Komen’s State Policy & Advocacy Manager, at gsmithwatkins@komen.org or (980) 349-9983. Sincerely, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Rayus Radiology Richmond Academy of Medicine Susan G. Komen Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation Virginia Radiological Society

Comments Document

The undersigned patient and provider organizations, which advocate on behalf of the Virginia breast cancer community, encourage your support of House Bill 230. If passed, this legislation would increase access to medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging by eliminating burdensome patient cost sharing.

The VA NAACP support HB 230,692,604,906

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

HB385: there’s an importance and safety to having two man crews.. safety for the company and the public.

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

I support this bill and as a healthcare professional I strongly see the need for this to be implemented!

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

I fully support the efforts put forth regarding Delegate Simmond's proposal.

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill

This bill would definitely help

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out of pocket cost for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an early diagnosis. Please support the bill!

Good morning, Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Please continue to allow any and all coverage preventive breast cancer care, treatment, and testing.

Early diagnosis is important!!! “Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

I’m in support of this bill to better help women with breast examinations.

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!” Thank you

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Being from a family in which breast cancer seems to have a permanent home, I truly understand why early detection of it is extremely important, and insurance coverage for any and all follow-ups is detrimental to saving lives. Therefore, for some women, "early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!"

"Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

I am writing as a concerned citizen to express my support for Delegate Simonds' bill, HB230. This bill would protect patients from expensive out-of-pocket costs for follow-up diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs. Early detection and treatment of breast cancer is essential to ensuring better health outcomes. Eliminating expensive financial barriers to accessing diagnostic breast imaging can help save lives. Delaying either diagnosis or treatment due to financial constraints can be devasting both to the individual's mental health and potential disease progression. Unfortunately, I (now) have a family history of breast cancer and when I went in for a screening, abnormalities were found that necessitated additional screenings every six months for a two-year period, which required both a diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound. While this was necessary for my health, it proved to be quite financially onerous as I struggled to figure out how to afford the expensive copays for diagnostic mammograms (which are coded differently than screening mammograms) and ultrasounds. When you're struggling with, not only coming to terms with a potentially life-altering health diagnosis, but also managing the care needed for that health condition, figuring out how to deal with the ensuing medical bills is another unnecessary and burdensome task during a particularly difficult time.

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

I am considered high risk due to my twin sister, older sister recently being diagnosed with breast cancer 4 years ago. I too have have coupling cysts that grew large in my breasts and had to have them removed. I will continue to be high risk and the costs to have the proper care needed to have tests, scans and ultrasounds completed become an out of pocket cost to me even with insurance. My twin sister just so happened to pay out of pocket to get that 3D imaging done even after already having a mammogram within a few months. After the scans they found the cancer which was spreading. Had she not she would possibly not have even known and she was at Stage 2. My older sister also paid out of pocket costs after my twin was diagnosed a year later, putting off the cost. She too was diagnosed with a very aggressive breast cancer! Early detection is the key and it make it very hard to receive the assistance even with insurance because it is NOT covered. I paid $75.00 three years ago. My sisters are both cancer free at this time! Still paying off some bills for care!!! Those with no insurance would never be served due to the costs as well to save their lives! I continue to be concerned about this since my daughter also had to have three cysts removed and I now have two granddaughters!

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Breast cancer is most prevalent in the black community. Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Most often cancer detection is prolonged due to the lack of awareness and limited access to medical care. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Chances are, you know at least one person who has been personally affected by breast cancer. Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Let's help save the lives of your loved ones and friends. Please support this bill!

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

“Early detection of breast cancer would not be possible without the medically necessary diagnostic follow-up or additional supplemental imaging required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!”

The timely identification of breast cancer hinges on essential diagnostic follow-ups and supplementary imaging software. These are crucial for either ruling out breast cancer or confirming the necessity of a biopsy. By removing out-of-pocket expenses, we can enhance accessibility, enabling more patients to receive early diagnoses and ultimately save lives! Please support to this bill.

My mother had breast cancer, and I am considered “high risk.” Last month, I found a lump in my right breast, and my doctor immediately ordered a diagnostic mammogram and an ultrasound. Despite having very good health care coverage, my out of pocket expense was $485.00. There are many women who could not afford this. Imagine having to choose between preventive care or daycare costs. Eliminating out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic and supplemental imaging can improve access and lead to more patients receiving an earlier diagnosis. Please support this bill!

Comments Document

Good evening, My name is Genise Smith-Watkins, and I am the State Policy & Advocacy Manager for Susan G. Komen. I am reaching out in support of HB 230, which will eliminate cost-sharing for medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging. For clarity on the scope of the bill, we have included the definitions of diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. I am attaching our written comments.

Comments Document

See attachment, please. Zachary Brunnert

Comments Document

As a Breast Radiologist in Richmond for 16 years, and member of the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation and Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia, I am writing in support of HB 230. Considered the gold standard for breast cancer screening, mammography reduces the number of deaths from breast cancer by up to 40% when performed yearly in women of average risk over age 40 through early detection of stage 0 and stage 1 cancers. Thankfully it is a mandated covered service. For the approximately 10% of women called back for additional evaluation after an abnormal screening, the out of pocket cost even after insurance is billed can be significant, and deter them from returning for potentially life changing and lifesaving care. A 2023 study showed 21% of women polled would skip additional recommended imaging if they knew they had to pay a deductible (1). In another, patients in plans with higher degrees of cost-sharing had lower utilization of diagnostic imaging, and this was more pronounced for the most expensive service studied—breast MRI, which has the highest cancer detection rate of them all (2). Underinsured women, or those who have high deductible plans, face financial barriers that can lead to a delayed diagnosis of breast cancer, resulting in advanced disease that requires more aggressive, often toxic (and more costly) treatments. Yesterday I had to tell a 40 year old mother of 6 that she has breast cancer. As devastating as it is, I was able to reassure her that it is curable, her prognosis is excellent, and this will not prohibit her from living a long, healthy life. I was able to provide this hope because I found her cancer early (stage 0), on her first-ever screening mammogram. And because she was able afford the out of pocket cost for additional imaging and an x-ray guided biopsy that provided this diagnosis. As the Medical Director of Breast Imaging at my institution, I hear of patients who cancel or “no-show” for diagnostic imaging appointments because of cost at least weekly. One recent patient was told that her co-pay for the diagnostic mammogram alone would be $1500. Any necessary ultrasound, imaging-guided biopsy, and MRI would be extra. She declined all tests even after speaking with our scheduling director, nurse, and myself. Yet in DE, MD, NM, OR, TN, and WA, states in which legislation has been passed to reduce or eliminate cost-sharing for diagnostic imaging (or if this were colorectal cancer screening, for which similar legislation was passed last year by the Biden administration), she would have been able to seamlessly continue her care. Even bundling the cost of diagnostic imaging with screening could potentially remove financial barriers while limiting the increases in overall cost, and still incentivize appropriate utilization (3). There is an overwhelming amount of scientific evidence that screening mammograms save lives. But this is only possible when the next steps are taken to confirm a diagnosis of cancer. Free screenings but cost prohibitive diagnostics leave women stranded, regardless of technological advances and medical expertise. Thank you for your time and consideration of this issue amidst the myriad of your other duties. Your support for this bill would reduce the burdens of cancer for our fellow Virginians, and help close the gap of health disparities and inequities in the Commonwealth. Sincerely, Priti A. Shah, MD pshah002@gmail.com

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Hi I am writing to you on behalf of The Well Connection UK, a media and publishing company. We could easily get virginia.gov featured in various publications such as magazines, online blogs and news sites. This would undoubtedly help virginia.gov with publicity, reputation, domain authority and organic search engine rankings. We have a wide range of options including completely free collaborations, sponsored posts, guest posts and banner ads. If this sounds of interest, please reach out to the senior business development manager, Anita at info@thewellconnection.co.uk and whatsapp +447395206515 (GMT) Kind regards Clifton Junior Outreach Assistant

The VA NAACP support HB 230,692,604,906

HB385: there’s an importance and safety to having two man crews.. safety for the company and the public.

The VA NAACP support HB 230,692,604,906

I think this is an excellent step forward to addressing simultaneous and contradictory movements. The existing efforts to increase demand on the power grid via electric vehicles while also reducing generation due to environmental and other concerns is fundamentally incoherent. I express my support for the bill and hope to see more technology developments from this and future sessions to ensure legislative infrastructures support societal changes as they occur. I can be reached at dmintz1732@gmail.com or 757 303 9938 if further discussion is desired.

Comments Document

VSAP opposes this bill. Please see the attached letter. HB 723 would have the unintended consequence of prohibiting executive sessions for incorporated nonprofit groups, such as churches, professional societies, and parent-teacher groups.

I'm not sure which bill I'm commenting on entirely. All I know for sure is I'm a type 1 diabetic of 30 years. And our government seems to care very little about my health or the insane costs of the medication that I absolutely have to have to live. Or getting the care I need. Which has been expensive, and has kept me struggling to survive pay rent or see the many doctors I need to see. I am ready to share my story. About my lows where I wake up in the hospital then wind up with an $8000 hospital bill as well as a $4000 bill for a 10 minute ambulance ride. Or about my highs, or just about the struggle of being a Diabetic who was uninsured who struggles to survive in a government that seems to care more about pharmaceutical companies profits than it's citizens health. I have quite a bit to say on the subject and my struggles as a diabetic.

The VA NAACP support HB 230,692,604,906

People, particularly renters, in my community often live in housing that is not energy efficient. I have talked to people living in mobile home parks that have holes in their walls and flooring and no insulation. Their energy bills are high because of the poor quality of their housing. They have to choose between paying their energy bills and paying for other necessities like food and medicine. This bill will at a minimum keep their utilities on when they can least afford to lose them. I cannot imagine people losing power these past two weeks when temperatures have remained at or below freezing. Maintaining access to essential utilities during extreme weather and on non-business days is a health and safety issue. Shutoffs should be the absolute last resort and ideally never used as a measure to get people to pay their bills, especially when less than a third of people eligible for bill assistance receive any. Thank you for considering this important bill!

HB385: there’s an importance and safety to having two man crews.. safety for the company and the public.

Comments Document

AdvaMed and the AdvaMed Medical Imaging Division are writing in support of HB 921, a bill increasing access to medically necessary diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging by eliminating the burden of patient cost-sharing.

Opposed any Bill that allows citizens to smoke weed, cannabis, marijuana. Shameful policies by government officials who don’t care about people. https://www.foxnews.com/health/daily-weed-smokers-higher-risk-heart-attack-stroke-american-heart-association-study

I’m against

I oppose

I’m against it

I'm against

I oppose these bills.

Delta 8 is NOT a nicotine product. It is illegal as of July 1, 2023. Punish those who do not card. Use the intellicheck system to card identification.

I oppose

Smoked for short time 2018. Move to vape as it is was affecting my ability to breath while doing outdoor laborous job during that time period. Because of vaping, I can still run, sprint, exercise without feeling unable to breathe. Don't punish retailers doing a very good deed to the community. Kids getting their hands on the product should be the fault of their Gardians. Kids that are mature and disciplined know the consequences of underage smoking and will refrain until they are of age. These bills if passed will just create a black market, which in turn make it way more accessable to minors and products will also be more unsafe as there will be no one to be held responsible in selling unsafe products.

Jdjdjfjf

I'm against the vape ban

Don’t bane our vapes

America is a free country!

People will be addicted to cigarettes rather than vapes, which are 10x worse.

Military survives off of vapes

I’m against this bill. Vaping helped me get off of cigarettes and was a great alternative.

CIGARETTES ARE CANCER NO ONE NEEDS TO SMOKE NOR BUY THEM

I'm against this.

Being in the military I started to rape so the I wouldn't use chewing tobacco or smoke cigarettes. It helps relieve the stress from work. Parents should be held accountable for their children. On top of the ban, you would be putting hundreds of people out of jobs, and businesses will have to shut down. I am against the ban of the sale of vape products.

Banning vaping and or implementing the PMTA will make businesses go out of business and that is not good at all. Keep in mind i quit smoking and started vaping because it was a healthier option. For someone who has heart problems I am not willing to go back to smoking cigarettes and supporting (big tobacco) we as grown adults have a say what we put into our bodies. If you are worried about children then you should hold the parents responsible and watch the numbers decrease while letting us adults control what we can/are allowed too. Implementing these bills will also put people who work at vape shops that have a passion for providing customers (21 and over) a healthier option out of a job . Working for a vape company has been the best decision of my life and knowing we are helping people become healthier is one of those big satisfaction moments we get to have. If you take that away from us because you are scared of big tobacco and big pharma then you need to reset your priorities. Thank you for your time and have a good day

I am opposed to the ban of vapes !

Being a free individual of the state it is sad to feel oppressed by the governed body. Please take into consideration of our amendments and due process. Free individual should have the right to participate in legal activities if choosing to do so.

This does nothing to address youth access. Online sales and straw purchacing is the preffered method. Oppose this

I'm against these bills because if they shut down vaping I will wind up moving back to cigarettes which have been proven as a higher risk of developing cancer, heart disease. Vaping offers a cleaner, and more efficient way of allowing others have a source of stress relief if vaping is banned, you will have completely destroyed a source of stress relief for so many people.

If bill goes through… I would have to have to go back to smoking cigarettes that I have tried to quit for years. Disposables and vape juice have been my go to for nicotine. It has been better for me as far as the taste, the smell, its discreet, there are definitely more health benefits to me than there are cigarettes. Being in the military & the stress of our day to day I would go through the worst withdrawals if taken away. Oppose. Not for bill.

I support HB1509. Please pass this legislation as it will minimize the ability to target children and teens for these products.

Vape products are a public health crisis that have been unleashed on our young adults and children with very little resistance or accountability from the adults in this country. I completely support Hb1509 preventing vape shops from operating 1,000 feet of schools.

Vaping is the number 1 issue at our middle and high schools. My child will be starting middles school next year and instead of discussing academics and sports we are talking about vaping and drugs. These are not conversations we need to be having with 12 year olds. Stop targetting our youth by setting up easy access. Shut down these shops near our schools.

I oppose.

Please pass this extremely important legislation to protect our youth from unnecessary exposure to vape shops. Those shops do not belong near schools and playgrounds. We should not be making it easier for children to access these harmful products.

I object!

N/A

Oppose ban.

I oppose.

As a concerned citizen of Vienna, but more importantly as the parent of an almost 13 year old, I wholeheartedly support this HB 1509. Vape stores have no business being anywhere near schools and other youth oriented community spaces. Convincing kids about the dangers of vaping is difficult enough without the added pressure of walking or driving by the stores to and from school each day. As I drive my son to and from school, I’m often surprised by the number of kids I see walking to school who are also vaping. We have a lot of work to do to convince the current generation of kids and young adults about vaping dangers and this bill is part of the path to do that. Please provide your support. Regards, Tracy McCarty Tracy.e.mccarty@gmail.com 111 Kingsley Rd, SE Vienna, VA 22180

After reading through both of these bills, they are truly one sided, In favor of banishing vaping as a whole. 1069 is much like most bill enacted politically, where you have to weed through the nonsense in order to get to the actual reasoning. Working for a well established vape shop in the Hampton roads area this bill does nothing but eliminate those finding a safer alternative to smoking. The PMTA when enacted federally was a large was of time for vape juice manufactures since those that submitted there paid out millions all for their product to sit in the FDA waiting status with no movement since 2016. Nearly 10 years later those same manufacturers are still waiting for a denial or an approval from the Fda. 1509 is a joke as to the wording, out right banni.g the sale of nicotine product if it is a vapor related product not smoking, vapor or hemp related. Never mind the fact that your fine with personal choice as long as it's benefits you pockets with financial gain (big tobacco) since for both of these bills so far the only ones allowed in virginia are owned and backed by Philip Morris and R.J Reynolds respectively. Hb 790 literally, tax the people more. My lord let's get one thing straight among the taxes the the virginians are already supposed to pay let's add one more to the Tab. Since that sounds alot like double/triple taxation, which doubled taxation is already frowned upon sound like greedy politician wanting more money to fund project that are unnecessary and unwanted. My lord, all of these bill go against the rights of the free people of the commonwealth, hindering the right to choose how the people work and live, taking their hard earned money to give to your pockets to find you campaign/s. In short good luck running for office the fall and years to come we vape we vote. Take the rights of freedom to do as we please we make sure your not in office much longer by voting you out and voting in better people that only look at the small picture of the harm (which is less than %1) instead of the larger picture the people that have used vaping to get of cigarettes and leading healthier live thank to vaping. I oppose all bill against vaping thank you.

Marlboro only wants to ban vapes because it cuts into their profits

I appose

i’m against

Vaping has helped me quit smoking cigarettes and I feel way healthier ever since I started vaping. I oppose these laws. Cigarettes are terrible.

Dear Bills Committee - I strongly support Delegate Seibold's Bill to restrict vape/ delta 8 sales within 1000 feet of schools and other youth oriented facilities. I currently have a senior high school student at James Madison High School in Vienna and vaping is prominent in both (on grounds!) - the school bathrooms - and outdoors. Even worse (if there is such a thing) - this occurs at the Middle School level, also - at Thoreau Middle School. I sincerely believe the limiting the access to substances that support this deadly habit is in the best interest of the children in our community - those using - and those who don't but are threatened and compromised by this behavior (some children won't use a "known" bathroom in a school b/c of its reputation for vaping/getting high. Please consider my written statement. I have raised 4 children in Fairfax County - and I am proud of it and love it here. I do not, however love the predatory and inherently disgusting nature exhibited by anyone who profits from selling this material to anyone - much less our children. Thank you for your utmost attention, stalwart resolve and committed concern. Sincerely, Heather Adler

I oppose. Blame the parents.

Vape stores should not be allowed within a certain distance of high schools and middle schools. We have been fighting our way out of a paper bag with this issue. Twice has Tobacco King in Vienna sold vapes to my daughter. First time she was 12!! Second time she was 14. Never carded. Took cash. Also sold her delta 8 in July of 2023 when delta 8 was illegal. Again cash transaction. They face no penalties, no repercussions. They are located bewteeen Madison high school and the main shopping area of Vienna. Kids can walk 2/10ths of a mile from the school to Tobacco King and will have passed 2 other vape stores on the way. We have to make it harder for the kids to get it because the Vape stores are targeting youth, have no real consequences. Tobacco is a drug. Let’s make it so it can’t be sold nearby a school. No solution will be perfect or stop teen vaping. But even small changes are important.

Keep my vapes

I oppose the banning of flavored vapes

I am opposed to any vape ban

I oppose this

I’m against, this is against my freedom to choose as an adult.

Against banning vapes see no harm

Against

i’m against

These products may not be healthy but they are a lot healthier than going back to cigarettes.

I have not smoked a single cigarette in 7 years thanks to vaping. And taking away an alternative is just not right

I oppose.

Don’t start a vape prohibition, waste of time, people will get it still

I strongly oppose these bills

Been smoke free for 20 years. Still want vape products available for purchase

Better then cigarettes

I oppose this as this is one of my stress relievers

I vape on a daily basis and oppose these bills

I’m against

I oppose this bill.

I'm against

Vaping helps quit smoking and other worse substance abuse. In my opinion it would lead to a worse society if vaping were banned.

I’m against.

I just want to say please don't change anything vape related. I was an avid smoker for 30 years and have been smoke free since 2012. Thank you for your time

Vaping has been a much preferred option vice smoking cigarettes for myself and my family.

Please don't ban vaping.

I oppose

Recommend vaping not be banned

I would prefer to continue to have a healthier alternative to smoking instead of going back to cigarettes.

I don’t support this ban, it’s pointless and less harmful than actual cigarettes

Please don’t band vapes it’s a stress reliever.

Shouldn’t be banned

I oppose the Willett & Seibold bills.

Don’t ban vaping

Do not support a ban on vaping

Don’t ban vaping helps with anxiety

I’m against these

N/A

I oppose

Vaping is a great relaxent for me in times of stress. It’s also a perfect alternative for people who smoke cigarettes. There’s also been many accounts of people who turned to vaping to stop smoking completely.

I oppose

We don’t want vapes to be band

I oppose

Please do not ban vapes and juices

Don’t ban vaping

Keep vaping

Please don’t Ban Vaping!

Vape helps with my anxiety

Don’t ban vapes help military with stress

Please don’t ban vaping

Adults of age should be allowed to make their choices on whatever if it effects their bodies.

I stand against any ban on vaping. I work at a vape shop and any bill restricting vaping more or completely banning it based on arbitrary FDA rulings would cause me a loss of my job, as well as hundreds maybe even thousands of others across Virginia.

Hey I’m against banning vaping

Don't do it

Getting ride of vaping will definitely bring a lot of people into more bad habits or an outlet to actually go to when they want to quit on a sustance that’s actually the same as what they’ve already been doing something that’s less harmful …I can go on and on about it but my son passed away two years ago instead of going into a hard substance I choose to vape nicotine it helped me realize that I didn’t need anything else but my vape to realize that what I went through wasn’t a dream or try to block it out

Vaping is much better than cigarettes. I smoked for 20 yrs and have been vaping now for 7+ years and do not want to have to go back to cigarettes ever

Banning vapes isn’t going to stop underage tobacco use.

No no and nooo!

Please do not close down VapeXotic. It’s a convenient location for me and the employees are amazing. It’s not fair because the FDA is dragging their feet to approve the products.

It’s a right to choose the way we gat nicotine and its consumption

VAPING saved my life please done take it way

I'm a smoker that has switched to vaping. This bill makes it harder for me to get products legally. The bill proposes that it will make it harder for children to get products however children are getting them through illegal outlets that will still be available after the bill is passed.

I oppose

Vapes help me get through my day

Don't pass this bill

Should keep Vapes for adults

These businesses are tax paying and there is no reason to close them down. The state will lose tremendous revenue which could go to social program funding and infrastructure. You vote yes and I will do everything in my power to campaign against everyone and support your opponents.

Alternatives to smoking should remain legal

No reason for people to not have access to nicotine, it makes no sense. We understand it’s not good for us but we know what we’re doing to ourselves. Regardless, it doesn’t make sense to restrict us based on the FDA knowing this is a toxic chemical.

Against bills. Detrimental to community

I highly oppose these bills. I rely on local vape stores for my products.

I oppose these bills

I’d rather vape than smoke cigarettes and risk cancer.

Opposed it

Opposed it

I believe it would be very detrimental to the United States military personnel to limit the sale of nicotine products in the state of Virginia For a lot it’s a relief from work and a lot of the traumatic stuff we have done on deployments. To expand on that point a lot of people are using caping to stop chain smoking cigarettes which are worse for us military members , a lot of us are known to be soo stressed that military members will smoke a whole carton of cigarettes a Day which is very bad long term then just inhaling nicotine. The VA offices already don’t do very well with the mental health of most veterans like me and others that I’ve served with and I think it would be a bad idea all around.

With a majority of the military vaping trying to quit smoking it would be a detriment to them and their progress. Being safer then cigarettes it wouldn't make any sense to ban something better. Why not ban cigarettes if they are so concerned.

Vaping has improved my quality of life. I refuse to give up capimg to support the big tobacco and caner industries

Don’t do it.

This bill could put great people out of business who have worked hard to form their businesses. This will also affect employees of vape shops and their well being. They have many healthy alternatives in the stores as well and buy quality products.

I wish to vote against. Everyone uses these for relaxation and would be a huge disappointment to have this happen to us