Dear Delegates, We are at a juncture in the proverbial road where we simply cannot hide our heads in the sand. Your constiuents have identified there are problems with data center infrastructrure and siting. My question is this. What do we possibly lose if you pass this bill? Knowledge, facts to make better more infromed decisions? From the prospective of THIS community, here in Prince William County, we have been asking for change for a decade on how we incorporate this kind of energy customer into our communities. Isn't it about time we did something? Please pass 1601 out of committee, we cannot be afraid of the facts anymore. Sincerely, Elena Schlossberg 16875 Stormy Drive Haymarket 20169

HB1601 introduces common sense siting prerequisites and prudent precautions for data centers being considered in proximity to sensitive incompatible uses. It would allow a locality to require an assessment of the effects of the proposed facility on water, agricultural resources, parks, historic sites or forestland. Such guidelines reflect the findings of the recent JLARC report and are desperately needed to protect citizens and natural resources from the encroachment of industrial facilities on areas inappropriate for their presence. I urge your support of HB1601. Thank you.

We ask you to please support HB1601. This bill would provide important transparency for the siting of a new high energy use facilities (HEUF) requiring a rezoning, special exception, or special use permit. It is critical to ensure that high impact developments like this will have guardrails to protect residents, schools, and localities. This bill helps to provide the information to do just that, through the requirement that high-energy use facilities (>100 MW) provide localities with a site assessment examining their noise impact on nearby residential areas and schools, and localities and through enabling localities to require electric utilities serving the facility to provide information on new generating units, substations and transmission infrastructure needed to serve the project. Please support HB1601.

My family STRONGLY supports HB 1659, a critical bill that would fund grants through a Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. This bill would allow funding to support the erosion repair to the area joining our small community with the Leesylvania State Park. This popular state park provides access to thousands of visitors seeking nature trails, bird viewing, kayaking, boat access points, sailing lessons, fishing, family barbecues, and most importantly a home to a variety of species. The sole burden of the cost of the erosion repair would be crippling to the Newport Estate residents. Such grants are made for moments such as this…helping to preserve our treasured natural habitats. This community desperately needs the help of HB1659. Thank you for your consideration.

I strongly support the passage of HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. Having been a resident of Newport Estates since 2006 and active members of our community and local government, our neighborhood is still resolving issues created by the developer 20+ years ago due to sub-standard soil that was never completely corrected. We have friends and neighbors who were directly impacted and displaced during the previous incidents. Regrettably, our neighborhood is experiencing slope failure again. The demographics of our neighborhood include retirees on fixed budgets as well as new families building a life here. Lack of support for bill HB1659 will result in significant financial impacts to households within our community. Our HOA does not have the additional funds for another restoration project of this complexity and magnitude. This bill will allow our government to provided critical financial support for soil restoration in our neighborhood.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. This bill will allow our government to provided needed financial support for soil restoration in our community. Unfortunately, we are experiencing slope failure in because developers had not properly corrected it during construction. Our HOA does not have the funds for restoration project of this magnitude.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. I have been a homeowner at Newport Estates since January 1998. I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. This bill will allow our government to provide needed financial support for soil restoration in our community. Unfortunately, we are experiencing slope failure because developers had not properly corrected it during construction. Our HOA does not have the funds for restoration projects of this magnitude. There would be significant financial impacts to households within our community without financial support this bill would allow.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. Our Newport Estates HOA does not have the funds for a restoration project of this magnitude and, without the financial support this bill would provide, home owners will incur a significant financial impact to rectify the problem.

I support HB1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. Our community is desperately in need of this support to save serval homes from soil erosion due to the slope behind some of our homes.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. This bill, submitted by our representative, would allow our government to provide needed financial support for our community to address a slope failure issue that has occurred because the original developers did not properly correct it during construction about two decades ago. Our Newport Estates HOA does not have the funds for a restoration project of this magnitude and, without the financial support this bill would provide, home owners will incur a significant financial impact to rectify the problem.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.

I support this bill because this bill will allow our government to provided needed financial support for soil restoration in our community. Unfortunately, we are experiencing slope failure in because developers had not properly corrected it during construction. Our HOA does not have the funds for restoration project of this magnitude. Significant financial impacts to households without financial support this bill would allow. Thank you.

 I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.       •    This bill will allow our government to provided needed financial support for soil restoration in our community.      •    Unfortunately, we are experiencing slope failure in because developers had not properly corrected it during construction.      •    Our HOA does not have the funds for restoration project of this magnitude.     •    Significant financial impacts to households without financial support this bill would allow. 

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund

 I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.   • This bill will allow our government to provided needed financial support for soil restoration in our community.  • Unfortunately, we are experiencing slope failure in because developers had not properly corrected it during construction.  • Our HOA does not have the funds for restoration project of this magnitude. • Significant financial impacts to households without financial support this bill would allow. 

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. This bill will allow our government to provided needed financial support for soil restoration in our community. Unfortunately, we are experiencing slope failure in because developers had not properly corrected it during construction. Our HOA does not have the funds for restoration project of this magnitude. Significant financial impacts to households without financial support this bill would allow. Thanks for your consideration to this urgent and needed issue in our Woodbridge, VA community.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Find.

I am in support of this bill. This bill is crucial for securing the financial assistance needed to restore our community’s soil, which has been severely impacted by slope failure. The issue stems from developers who did not adequately address the slope during construction, leaving the problem unresolved. Our Homeowners Association (HOA) is not equipped with the financial resources to fund a restoration project of this magnitude, and without the support that this bill would provide, households in our community will face significant financial hardships. This bill offers an essential lifeline, helping to mitigate the potential economic impact on residents and ensuring that the necessary environmental repairs can be made.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. The erosion is an ongoing issue that the homeowners have had to deal with because the developers never took care of the issue during construction. Without the approval, the cost would add a significant burden to each homeowner that we can not afford.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. This bill will allow our government to provided needed financial support for soil restoration in our community, without which there will be rather significant financial impacts to hundreds of families in the community. Thank you for your concern and support in this matter.

“ I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.”,

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund. Our HOA does not have the funds for restoration project of this magnitude.

I support HB 1659 Local Foundation and Soil Management Fund.

Please approve this bill for a temporary easement to fix soil/erosion damage that will negatively impact homeowners. The cost benefit analysis clearly paints this easement as the best solution. Furthermore, the environmental impact is minimal and nature will spontaneously restore the land back to original condition. Finally, this soil conservation benefits the State park that this easement encroaches upon. As a citizen with common sense, this easement is a win-win solution that everyone benefits from. Please approve this bill. V/R, Stephen Bonner...

I am an original homeowner living adjacent to the land that is eroding within the easement behind our street's homes. I was directly affected by a prior landslide in 2007, with a complete loss of my backyard. That slide resulted in my family being forcibly vacated from our home for over three months, while reconstruction took place. Direct access to the area being reconstructed was afforded by the construction of a temporary road from Neabsco Rd, which allowed numerous truck loads of poor-quality soil to be removed and subsequently replaced by more effective soil and crushed stone. I am grateful to Prince William County and the Newport Homeowners Association for coordinating with all parties to restore my property and allow me to return to my home. I am also grateful that a temporary road could be constructed to access the worksite, which increased the efficiency, safety, and speed to restore my property and that of the association.

My name is Heather, and I live on Kings Mountain Rd in the Newport Estate community of Woodbridge, VA. My husband and I enthusiastically support this bill for several reasons. Our property borders Leesylvania State Park— in particular, a strip of eroded land that was once environmentally remedied and has since deteriorated again. We’d like to see this land restored and properly protected, especially considering the history of the land. In addition, as parents to five and lifelong public servants, we worry about the safety of our children and the integrity of our home should this issue continue to go unaddressed. This bill would provide the opportunity for our community to remediate this land once again.

We strongly support measures to allow all jurisdictions to implement more electronic traffic law enforcement. Highway safety is our community's number one public safety issue. Speed and red light cameras, in particular, are strongly supported.

I 100% support HB 1664 "Photo speed monitoring devices; placement and operation by certain localities". The speed ticket camera bill topic is over due to pass into law for use past the existing Photo Enforcement Speed Ticket Cameras allowed in school zones since 2020 RGA voting session, of which Virginia did NOT see these devices in place in the public in school zones until late 2023 and then 2024 years. In just the 1 year or slightly longer time period of this advanced technology being put in school zones to assist police forces to get the speeding under control has been a dramatic SUCCESS from what I have witnessed in my county of Fauquier, and what I have read in numerous online posted news articles. It has been my experience of witnessing many times of driving on Rte 17 in front of Liberty High School in Bealton Virginia where speed ticket cameras were put in place WITHOUT BEING IN A FULL OPERATION "ON" MODE to issue a citation that the POSTED speed limit was being strictly obeyed simply because the signs in advance of the camera stated "Photo Enforcement" to warn the drivers of these devices. That alone is the same as having a paid police officer sitting in their patrol car, however when the patrol car leaves the area the speeding will resume within 20-30 min where speed ticket cameras are NOT present from 24 years of me witnessing that also on Rte 17 as a long term homeowner and citizen of Fauquier County. This TOPIC is all about properly ADDRESSING the overdue vehicle speeding problem in Virginia that Secretary of Transportation Sheppard Miller stated on recorded RGA video in 2023 and 2024 to the Senate and HOD Transportation Committee's and Public Safety Committee's is a serious ongoing rising death rate problem. Mr Miller said something needs to be done about this and Transportation 1st priority is all about SAFETY, yet nothing serious is being done about it. Lots of talk, but no real action except a ongoing constant majority vote to either "Table" or "Vote NO" for these Speed Ticket Camera Bills. Again in 2024 road deaths rose in Virginia past 2023 data, and in Fauquier County it also increased. This is clear proof that police force alone are unable to address this problem to the level it REQUIRES. Crashes create DELAY congestion and Virginia is ranked in the top 3 worst traffic congestions states in the USA. This causes delays in business deliveries, family plans, getting to the job on time, school schedules, etc. It also can greatly impacts public health depending on the cargo involved of a speeding tractor trailer crashing as has been a known occurrence to happen on Rte 17 in Fauquier County that is a major trade route for truckers to speed thru. In my STRONGEST opinion of engaging in this topic since 2004 that many politicians at RGA yearly gatherings vote "NO" or "TABLE" these type of bills to allow Tractor Trailer drivers to speed on our VA roads to support the success of the Ports of Virginia to deliver cargo as FAST as possible to the ONLY Inland Marine Port in Front Royal Virginia off of I-66 which uses Rte 17, I-81 and I-95 to reach it. The expansion of the ports of Virginia has been a LONG term planning expansion that is nearly complete soon, but already making MILLIONS per Sheppard Miller. I support the Ports of Virginia Economic growth but NOT the neglect on citizens lives to allow speeding to take place to the ongoing problem it has become and blocking speed ticket camera technology.

I am lucky enough to live close enough to my work and kid's schools to be able to bike us to and from most days. I love being able to bike - I can connect to the city and my kids, integrate movement into the day, and its fun! However, biking in so many parts of the city is dangerous - even along routes with a dedicated bike - because of speeding cars. It is important that we reduce vehicular speed for our community - and it sends a message that cars are not the default priority. We must prioritize safety and also integrate all methods of travel - bike, bus, walking, etc - for the health of our communities. I ask that you support this legislation.

Delegates Jones and Laufer, thank you for sponsoring HB1664 and HB1666, regarding photo speed monitoring. My name is Steve Paradiso on W 28th in Woodland Heights, just a few houses off Semmes Ave. I’ve lived in Richmond just two-plus years, and am absolutely amazed at the number of drivers encountered every day that have absolutely no regard for posted speed limits on city streets. As you may know, Semmes Ave, with a posted speed of 30 mph, is treated as a speedway. In my time as a resident, I have witnessed the aftermath of many accidents on Semmes, undoubtedly due to excessive speed. It is evident in the shear destruction of vehicles involved. Any there have also been lives lost due to the same. I personally due everything I can to avoid traveling Semmes for fear of being in an accident. Unfortunately, I do have to travel the Lee Bridge to and from work, where the speed of many is double the posted speed, if not more. I personally feel those speeding on the Lee Bridge, then make their way onto Semmes, continue the high rate of travel. It is beyond time that speed monitoring cameras be allowed in our city. It is beyond time that offenders are held accountable for their actions. I hope the Transportation Committee will do the right thing and move this legislation forward. Thank you. Regards - Steve Paradiso

I support all of the bills above.

I support HB 1664, HB 1666, HB 1673, and HB 2041. As a Richmond resident who lives on a busy street, I am shocked at the disregard of many drivers for speed limits, traffic safety, and human life. We need to control speed limits, but police departments have other demands on their time that, understandably, make traffic enforcement a lower priority. Please help make our streets safer by supporting these bills.

Comments Document

Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling supports all efforts to improve the safety of vulnerable road users by slower down vehicular traffic. Automated Speed Enforcement/Speed safety cameras are the optimal method of enforcement because they provide a durable, low-cost method of reducing vehicular speed without placing additional stress on local police agencies. These cameras have already been implemented in Fairfax County and other areas in the state to successfully reduce speeding in School Zones and highway work zones. These bills provide an opportunity to use proven technology and operations to reduce speeding in other areas where pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users are at increased risk. The attached file show how Fairfax County reduced speeding in school zones during its pilot program. These results can be implemented in additional location s across the state to improve safety for all road users, especially vulnerable road users.

I support HB 1664, HB 1666, HB 1673, and HB 2041, which address different aspects of the implementation of speed safety and general photo enforcement of traffic in Virginia. These tools provide essential speed control without the cost of police officers’ valuable time. These proposed solutions are the most efficient way to consistently addresses illegal behavior. As a resident of The Plains, VA, with property bordering on Rt. 17, I witness daily the excessive speeds of cars and trucks on Rt 17. The current level of police enforcement is intermittent, expensive, and ineffective.

I am writing to urge you to vote in favor of installing speed cameras at the intersection of Route 17 and Old Tavern/Enon Church Road. As someone who uses this intersection regularly, I can attest to its growing danger due to increased traffic volume and rampant speeding by vehicles, including large trucks. This intersection has become a life-threatening hazard, and immediate action is needed to prevent further injuries and fatalities. For those unfamiliar with this area, let me describe the situation: entering or exiting Enon Church Road onto Route 17 from any angle requires split-second decision-making. Last year, some improvement was achieved by cutting back part of a blocking hillside, giving drivers an additional five seconds to determine whether it was safe to proceed. While this was helpful, it was not enough. The installation of blinking lights was intended to alert drivers to the danger, but they have proven to be completely ineffective against the sheer volume and speed of vehicles passing through. The reality is that most drivers on this stretch of Route 17 speed simply because they can. Cars and massive trucks travel at excessive speeds, leaving no room for error. This is not just a matter of inconvenience—it is a deadly combination that threatens everyone trying to navigate this intersection. Allow me to share a personal experience that highlights the danger. Just yesterday, while heading to the hospital, I carefully looked in all directions before attempting to enter Route 17. A large truck in the right lane was approaching so quickly that it was impossible to merge. A car in the left lane, driving abreast with the truck, further blocked my way. Finally, I found a small window of opportunity to proceed. As I reached the middle of Route 17, another vehicle from the south attempted to turn and skidded to a stop just two feet from my car. This is not an isolated incident—it is a recurring nightmare for anyone who uses this intersection. The installation of speed cameras is a straightforward and effective solution to this problem. These cameras can enforce speed limits, deter reckless driving, and save lives. Studies have shown that speed cameras significantly reduce speeding-related accidents, particularly in high-risk areas like this one. The cost of implementation is far outweighed by the value of the lives that will be saved. I implore you to prioritize the safety of your constituents by voting in favor of speed cameras at this intersection. If you ever visit this area, I urge you to experience it firsthand—but with caution. Turn off any distractions, focus intently, and you will see the peril that residents face daily. Thank you for considering this urgent matter. I trust that you will make the right decision to protect our community and prevent future tragedies. Sincerely, Mary Forte 8080 Enon Church Rd, The Plains, VA

Bicycling is a hazard these days, no matter where we ride. Anthing the legislature can do to help make the roads safer to share, is a great benefit to the citizens would help. Please do not delay and act today!

In order to make the road safer for pedestrians and cyclists, please pass these bills. Thank you very much. Jorge Forgues 703.627.0889

I am against this bill which expands the use of photo speed monitoring devices in Virginia. Here's why: Privacy Invasion: The broader application of photo speed monitoring devices across various highways increases the surveillance of citizens, potentially infringing on privacy rights, akin to the privacy concerns raised in Katz v. United States (1967). Selective Enforcement: Allowing local governments to decide where to place these devices based on DOT data might lead to selective enforcement, where certain areas or demographics could be disproportionately targeted, similar to enforcement issues in Whren v. United States (1996). Over-Policing: This expansion could result in over-policing, where the presence of cameras might be more about revenue generation than safety, echoing the critique of government overreach in Lochner v. New York (1905). Public Notification: While the bill increases the requirement for signage from one to two within 1,000 feet, this might still be insufficient to alert drivers, especially on high-speed roads, leading to unintentional violations, reflecting notice issues as in Mullane v. Central Hanover Bank & Trust Co. (1950). Financial Burden: The potential for increased fines due to more widespread use of these devices could disproportionately affect lower-income drivers, creating an economic disparity, similar to concerns in San Antonio Independent School District v. Rodriguez (1973). Lack of Human Judgment: Automated enforcement removes the human element, where context or extenuating circumstances might be considered, potentially leading to unfair ticketing, a concern akin to due process issues in Goldberg v. Kelly (1970). Administrative Overload: Expanding the use of these devices will increase the administrative workload for local law enforcement in managing violations, appeals, and public inquiries, potentially diverting resources from other critical functions, as seen in administrative burden concerns in Massachusetts v. EPA (2007). Potential for Abuse: With local control over placement, there's a risk of misuse for political or financial gain, where cameras might be placed in areas not necessarily for safety but for revenue, touching on the principles of fairness and public trust discussed in Nollan v. California Coastal Commission (1987). I oppose this legislation due to concerns over privacy invasion, selective enforcement, over-policing, inadequate public notification, financial burdens on citizens, the lack of human judgment in enforcement, administrative overload, and the potential for abuse, advocating for a more balanced approach that prioritizes safety while respecting privacy, fairness, and due process.

I SUPPORT THE USE OF SPEED TICKET CAMERAS ALONG VARIOUS PARTS OF ROUTE 17 AND ESPECIALLY GOING FROM WARRENTON TO MARSHALL DURING THE RUSH HOUR PERIODS AT INTERSECTIONS LIKE OLD TAVERN AND ENON CHURCH RD, AND BELVIOUR RD. NOT MANY DRIVERS ADHEAR TO THE SPEEED LIMITS AND MOST DON'T EVEN SLOW DOWN AT SPEED LIMIT REDUCTIONS OF 45 AND 35 WHEN APPROACHING MARSHALL. THERE ARE NUMEROUS TIMES IT IS SIMPLY DIFFICULT TO CROSS RT 17 FROM ENON CHURCH TO GO TO MARSHALL FORCING ME TO MAKE A RIGHT AND THEN TRY MAKING A LEFT AT THE NEXT INTERSECTION OR FROM THE OLD TAVERN SIDE TRYING TO CROSS RT 17 TO MAKE A LEFT TOWARD MARSHALL. RT 17 IS NOT RT 66

I am writing to support HB 1664, HB 1666, HB 1673, and HB 2041, which address different aspects of the implementation of speed safety and general photo enforcement of traffic in Virginia. These tools provide valuable low-impact enforcement in a manner that optimizes law enforcement capacity and more consistently addresses illegal behavior. As a resident of Richmond, VA and a daily pedestrian in a busy part of the city, I very much want actual enforcement of traffic laws, as opposed to the very intermittent enforcement possible without speed and traffic safety cameras.

Please hold off on wasting more money when there are so many people jaywalking instead of using the new crosswalks installed in the city and counties. Where is the money coming from? Taxpayers How about first fixing the water system, then help with the homeless problem, crime problem, and support the police, fire and rescue departments, and public schools. Basically, everyone needs food, water, and shelter and the rule of law to live in a civil society. Government control is the answer to freedom. Stop punishing the law abiding citizens and punish the criminals. It is the same thing with having metal detectors in elementary schools and children forced to use transparent backpacks. How heartbreaking is that for our children now! Schools and communities are supposed to be safe from drugs, cannabis stores, gambling clubs, and human trafficking, abortion clinics, but the government increased the risk for us all in the last four years. Some politicians bend over backwards to protect the criminals instead of protecting the innocent citizens.

Traffic safety is our number one public safety concern. We strongly support measures to increase our authority to implement automated enforcement including speed cameras. Thank you.

Please support HB1664 and HB1666. These bills provide important safety enhancements that will benefit all citizens, includingthose of us living near Route 17, which has become very busy.

Thank you for this opportunity. I live on Enon Church Road, at the intersection of Rte 17 and Old Tavern Rd, across from Great Meadow Event Center. I and my family strongly support the speed camera legislation because there are some roads that are simply so dangerous, that lives depend on taking concrete action to reduce speeds. (I say this as someone who had lived in DC for many years and detests the speed cameras in zones with artificially low speeds that seem designed only to generate revenue) Route 17 can only be described as treacherous. My husband and I live in fear for our 3 children, 2 daughters-in-law, neighbors and ourselves who must enter and exit Rte 17 daily, as well as unsuspecting travelers who may not understand the uniquely dangerous nature of Rte 17. Our fears are based in real life experience. Since we moved to The Plains in 2016, I'm aware of five deaths at our intersection. One of those deaths was my father. My father was in perfect health when he attempted to drive across Rte 17 to visit us, and was T-boned by a speeding car. He was airlifted to INOVA Fairfax, and suffered for a week in the trauma intensive care unit before passing away. We have heard crashes at our intersection from our house a mile away. After hearing one crash, I drove to the intersection to find a red Suburban carrying a family that had been T-boned. The helicopter had just arrived, there was a baby seat by the side of the road, and an ambulance crew was slowly wheeling a gurney with a draped body to an ambulance. That was just one of the accidents I witnessed that was caused by high speeds on Rte 17. Rte 17 between Marshall & Warrenton is uniquely dangerous because of its dual nature. This is the other side of Rte 17's dual nature as both a local road and a super highway.It presents as a scenic country road, lined with driveways from which residents must slowly emerge, and numerous intersections with small country roads from which lower speed drivers enter and exit. School buses stop and start, and large trailers carting livestock lumber onto and off of 17. Despite its function as a local road, Rte 17 also functions as a major high speed highway and commuter route - picture 495 or 95 with heavy, high speed traffic. Cars, trucks, and tractor trailers fly through at speeds well over the limit that would not allow them to slow down in time to avoid a car entering or exiting 17 at a lower speed. It appears that many of these drivers are using Rte 17 as if it were an interstate highway in order to avoid Rte 81, and this use will only increase as traffic at the inland port increases. In addition, commuters leaving Rte 66 use Rte 17 (via Old Tavern Road) to avoid the slow traffic on Rte 29. I've observed that they are typically in a hurry and pay little attention to speed limits. The combination of these high speed drivers, mixed with lower speed drivers who are entering and exiting Rte 17 at its many driveways, intersection, and school bus stops. It has resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. There are many other roads that share these characteristics with my local section of Rte 17. When a road is used by both local travelers, who are typically traveling at lower speeds, and longer distance travelers, who are typically traveling at higher speeds, the danger is acute. It is essential to control speed, and I and my family believe that speed cameras would be an effective tool to do so.

I support HB 1666 and HB 1664 to allow Photo Enforcement Speed Ticket Cameras to be allowed on Virginia Roads to reduce the crashes, deaths and injuries. Police need this help to get it under serious control where it is worst. It's about public safety, and NOT about making money.

I support HB 1664 and 1666 to pass into law. These devices represent technology that works very well to assist police to keep the speeding much lower and speed limit obeyed. Its clearly showing that they work in school zones from huge reduction in speeding per what I hear from our police forces. If our toll roads can issue me a fine in the mail using photo camera technology than why NOT for speed ticket cameras on roads that have known bad speeding problems that police get under control. My horse trailer is slow moving, and when I use Rte 17 in Fauquier County to take my daughter to riding events, it is very dangerous for us and our horse due to speeding cars and tractor trailers. Virginia also has so many crashes that cause LONG delays I can only think it would reduce those types of ongoing delays also so truckers deliver their cargo on time and people get to work more on time. They work, proven to work now very well in school zone, and now time to expand them for use on more dangerous roads. Thank you and I hope you all see the value of this technology that we did NOT have access to just 15 years ago.

I fully support SB 1664 and 1666 to pass into law so citizens have technology to assist our police forces to address the over 20 years of out of control speeding on Rte 17 in Fauquier County. I lived here for 24 years, and the number of times I have almost been hit by either me swerving out of the way or the speeder behind me swerving from my vehicle in just inches happens so much its beyond counting anymore. It truly is that bad. Some of you I am sure could care less who vote on these types of bills because its all about protecting the tractor trailer drivers who deliver the cargo as FAST as POSSIBLE for the Ports of Virginia to the inland marine port in Front Royal Virginia in relation to the millions of dollars invested in the ports. I have watched the recorded RGA statements from 2023 and 2024 made by Secretary of Transportation Sheppard Miller to the Senate and HOD Transportation and Public Safety Committees how he says public safety is there #1 priority, death rates on Virginia highways continue to rise every year and it needs serious attention. Mr Miller also stated how the ports of Virginia are booming in business and making Millions of dollars which is good, but we need these Speed Ticket Cameras in place to help our police get it under serious control. A fellow supporter in our group had to speak Governor Youngkin directly to ask him to help us out with the millions of drivers speeding on Rte 17 Marshall to Warrenton which is a major tractor trailer "Trade Route" now. The police were NOT really listening to us for all these years complaining and all we heard from them is its "To much speeding and not enough police to go around with so many other problems also". Rte 17 is used heavily by school buses, who look like they are standing still when doing 55mph compared to all the speeders. The school bus routes are a EXTENSION OF THE SCHOOL ZONE per what my citizen group has been saying for last few years, and I agree. If it requires having the speed cameras turned OFF for certain parts of the day to get them in place, then let it be done but having them out there alone forces drivers to obey the speed limit whether ON or OFF. This is coming from both State Police and Sheriff Dept, and the data I was shown proves it. I have driven on Rte 17 at least 30 times where speed ticket cameras are in place at Liberty High School and the vast majority of drivers are obeying the speed limit strictly there all 30 times. The signs that say "Photo Enforcement" is like having a police officer present all the time, and thats what we need up on our section of Rte 17 where we have NO traffic lights and the speeding is heavy and fast. Tractor trailer drivers are like speeding tanks and hauling all forms of cargo that could explode. In 2017 we had a propane tanker flip over from speeding, and many others have in the past. Neighbors I know have been injured and some of their family members KILLED on Rte 17. This is NOT about making money, but all about INCREASING PUBLIC SAFETY THRU REDUCING THE SPEEDING. The camera systems I have reviewed how they work and its FAIR. Blocking speed ticket cameras from being allowed to help police is control the speeding, and increase public safety has gone on far to long, and clearly a link meant to allow truckers to speed to make the ports LOTS of MONEY. Further blocking these bills is going to warrant a full scale investigation citizens are saying. I vote to allow them. Thank you

I support these bills to pass into law. This will help improve our public safety on speeding roads. My family has lived on Rt 17 since 1974 and my step father, S Prentiss Porter was almost killed pulling out onto that road. I visit my 100-year-old mother who lives on Wildcat Mt, almost every day, and find that pulling out into 17 is like entering a shooting gallery. And turning in is not much better as the trucks steam around the bend behind me and basically ignore my turn signal. Thank you for your consideration. Feroline Higginson

Comments Document

I fully 100% support HB bills 1666 and HB 1664 to pass to allow for use on dangerous roads and highways with supporting data indicating speeding is excessively occurring, deaths, injuries and/or road design variables that indicate a need to have a 24 hour a day 365 day surveillance to assist both State Police and local police forces to keep the problem under more strict control of obeying the set speed limits. Myself and hundreds of Fauquier Citizens have called in, emailed and spoken up to our police forces to address it, but all we hear is too much speeding and not enough man power to go around from both State Police and Sheriff Dept since 2004. It took me to have a direct conversation with Governor Glenn Youngkin in 2023 and 2024 to address the speeding of which it did get addressed much more strictly for 4-6 months, but then again returned to being a problem and required another in person request with Governor Youngkin to help us out again. It SHOULD NOT require a citizen to go to the Governor of Virginia in order to get police to put very serious attention on the speeding problem. Even when they do, they are still allowing an average of 19mph over the set speed limit of 55mph before a citation is issued per both State Police and Sheriff police. Reckless driving by law is 20mph over the set speed limit. The police simply NEED HELP, and this Technology is the Answer. Extending the speed ticket camera onto highways like Rte 17 where school buses must STOP by law in the right hand lane to pick up and drop off children would be a "EXTENSION OF THE SCHOOL ZONE". Speed ticket camera technology is about PUBLIC SAFETY and NOT about making money. Any statistics indicating increased revenue from Speed Cameras is TESTIMONY of itself that the road area has a SERIOUS SPEEDING PROBLEM that police are unable to keep under control. It is simple as that, because speed ticket cameras allow by law 10mph over the speed limit, and ONLY issue a citation when it is 11mph over the speed limit. Citizens can decide to go to court to fight the citation if they choose just like if a police officer wrote the citation. A Police officer always Reviews all citation photo evidence prior to it being sent in the mail to the owner of the vehicle. Police force man power is still down below standards from the COVID pandemic, other society factors and an increase of police officer retirements being reached per State Police records. Photo Enforcement Speed Ticket Technology Cameras are proven to reduce the speeding and related deaths and injuries occurring in Virginia School zones since being implemented in the last 2 years. On Rte 17 in Fauquier County Virginia near Liberty High School and Cedar Lee Middle School are multiple speed ticket cameras in place and improving public safety dramatically by reducing the speeding. These devices NOW need to be expanded for use onto the many other dangerous roads that police are unable to keep under long term serious control.

I am lucky enough to live close enough to my work and kid's schools to be able to bike us to and from most days. I love being able to bike - I can connect to the city and my kids, integrate movement into the day, and its fun! However, biking in so many parts of the city is dangerous - even along routes with a dedicated bike - because of speeding cars. It is important that we reduce vehicular speed for our community - and it sends a message that cars are not the default priority. We must prioritize safety and also integrate all methods of travel - bike, bus, walking, etc - for the health of our communities. I ask that you support this legislation.

Delegates Jones and Laufer, thank you for sponsoring HB1664 and HB1666, regarding photo speed monitoring. My name is Steve Paradiso on W 28th in Woodland Heights, just a few houses off Semmes Ave. I’ve lived in Richmond just two-plus years, and am absolutely amazed at the number of drivers encountered every day that have absolutely no regard for posted speed limits on city streets. As you may know, Semmes Ave, with a posted speed of 30 mph, is treated as a speedway. In my time as a resident, I have witnessed the aftermath of many accidents on Semmes, undoubtedly due to excessive speed. It is evident in the shear destruction of vehicles involved. Any there have also been lives lost due to the same. I personally due everything I can to avoid traveling Semmes for fear of being in an accident. Unfortunately, I do have to travel the Lee Bridge to and from work, where the speed of many is double the posted speed, if not more. I personally feel those speeding on the Lee Bridge, then make their way onto Semmes, continue the high rate of travel. It is beyond time that speed monitoring cameras be allowed in our city. It is beyond time that offenders are held accountable for their actions. I hope the Transportation Committee will do the right thing and move this legislation forward. Thank you. Regards - Steve Paradiso

I support all of the bills above.

I support HB 1664, HB 1666, HB 1673, and HB 2041. As a Richmond resident who lives on a busy street, I am shocked at the disregard of many drivers for speed limits, traffic safety, and human life. We need to control speed limits, but police departments have other demands on their time that, understandably, make traffic enforcement a lower priority. Please help make our streets safer by supporting these bills.

Comments Document

Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling supports all efforts to improve the safety of vulnerable road users by slower down vehicular traffic. Automated Speed Enforcement/Speed safety cameras are the optimal method of enforcement because they provide a durable, low-cost method of reducing vehicular speed without placing additional stress on local police agencies. These cameras have already been implemented in Fairfax County and other areas in the state to successfully reduce speeding in School Zones and highway work zones. These bills provide an opportunity to use proven technology and operations to reduce speeding in other areas where pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users are at increased risk. The attached file show how Fairfax County reduced speeding in school zones during its pilot program. These results can be implemented in additional location s across the state to improve safety for all road users, especially vulnerable road users.

Please support HB1666. As a member of the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors, we have been working on getting a photo speed bill to address our ongoing and increasing concerns for several years. Accidents and deaths have increased yearly along our roads and even though we continue to add police officers, since our County is 726 sq. miles it is impossible to be everywhere. We are asking to be able to use technology to keep our community and police officers safe. Thank you.

I am writing on behalf of Greater Richmond Fit4Kids in support of HB 1666, which would allow localities to expand the opportunity to use speed cameras to limit speeding, which is linked to higher rates of crashes, injuries, and worse. As a Richmond, Virginia nonprofit that provides school programming and education, including the Richmond City Safe Routes to School program, we have observed the impact of speed cameras placed in high-injury network areas, specifically in school zone locations. In addition to reducing crashes and injuries, increasing safety measures in school zones is associated with higher numbers of students who walk or bike to school. When more students walk or bike to school, they show up ready to learn. Using active transportation to and from school also reduces the dependence on fossil fuels, improves air quality around schools, and for many students, greatly reduces chronic absenteeism.

I support HB 1664, HB 1666, HB 1673, and HB 2041, which address different aspects of the implementation of speed safety and general photo enforcement of traffic in Virginia. These tools provide essential speed control without the cost of police officers’ valuable time. These proposed solutions are the most efficient way to consistently addresses illegal behavior. As a resident of The Plains, VA, with property bordering on Rt. 17, I witness daily the excessive speeds of cars and trucks on Rt 17. The current level of police enforcement is intermittent, expensive, and ineffective.

I am writing to urge you to vote in favor of installing speed cameras at the intersection of Route 17 and Old Tavern/Enon Church Road. As someone who uses this intersection regularly, I can attest to its growing danger due to increased traffic volume and rampant speeding by vehicles, including large trucks. This intersection has become a life-threatening hazard, and immediate action is needed to prevent further injuries and fatalities. For those unfamiliar with this area, let me describe the situation: entering or exiting Enon Church Road onto Route 17 from any angle requires split-second decision-making. Last year, some improvement was achieved by cutting back part of a blocking hillside, giving drivers an additional five seconds to determine whether it was safe to proceed. While this was helpful, it was not enough. The installation of blinking lights was intended to alert drivers to the danger, but they have proven to be completely ineffective against the sheer volume and speed of vehicles passing through. The reality is that most drivers on this stretch of Route 17 speed simply because they can. Cars and massive trucks travel at excessive speeds, leaving no room for error. This is not just a matter of inconvenience—it is a deadly combination that threatens everyone trying to navigate this intersection. Allow me to share a personal experience that highlights the danger. Just yesterday, while heading to the hospital, I carefully looked in all directions before attempting to enter Route 17. A large truck in the right lane was approaching so quickly that it was impossible to merge. A car in the left lane, driving abreast with the truck, further blocked my way. Finally, I found a small window of opportunity to proceed. As I reached the middle of Route 17, another vehicle from the south attempted to turn and skidded to a stop just two feet from my car. This is not an isolated incident—it is a recurring nightmare for anyone who uses this intersection. The installation of speed cameras is a straightforward and effective solution to this problem. These cameras can enforce speed limits, deter reckless driving, and save lives. Studies have shown that speed cameras significantly reduce speeding-related accidents, particularly in high-risk areas like this one. The cost of implementation is far outweighed by the value of the lives that will be saved. I implore you to prioritize the safety of your constituents by voting in favor of speed cameras at this intersection. If you ever visit this area, I urge you to experience it firsthand—but with caution. Turn off any distractions, focus intently, and you will see the peril that residents face daily. Thank you for considering this urgent matter. I trust that you will make the right decision to protect our community and prevent future tragedies. Sincerely, Mary Forte 8080 Enon Church Rd, The Plains, VA

Bicycling is a hazard these days, no matter where we ride. Anthing the legislature can do to help make the roads safer to share, is a great benefit to the citizens would help. Please do not delay and act today!

In order to make the road safer for pedestrians and cyclists, please pass these bills. Thank you very much. Jorge Forgues 703.627.0889

I am against this bill which expands the use of photo speed monitoring devices in Virginia. Here's why: Privacy Invasion: The broader application of photo speed monitoring devices across various highways increases the surveillance of citizens, potentially infringing on privacy rights, akin to the privacy concerns raised in Katz v. United States (1967). Selective Enforcement: Allowing local governments to decide where to place these devices based on DOT data might lead to selective enforcement, where certain areas or demographics could be disproportionately targeted, similar to enforcement issues in Whren v. United States (1996). Over-Policing: This expansion could result in over-policing, where the presence of cameras might be more about revenue generation than safety, echoing the critique of government overreach in Lochner v. New York (1905). Public Notification: While the bill increases the requirement for signage from one to two within 1,000 feet, this might still be insufficient to alert drivers, especially on high-speed roads, leading to unintentional violations, reflecting notice issues as in Mullane v. Central Hanover Bank & Trust Co. (1950). Financial Burden: The potential for increased fines due to more widespread use of these devices could disproportionately affect lower-income drivers, creating an economic disparity, similar to concerns in San Antonio Independent School District v. Rodriguez (1973). Lack of Human Judgment: Automated enforcement removes the human element, where context or extenuating circumstances might be considered, potentially leading to unfair ticketing, a concern akin to due process issues in Goldberg v. Kelly (1970). Administrative Overload: Expanding the use of these devices will increase the administrative workload for local law enforcement in managing violations, appeals, and public inquiries, potentially diverting resources from other critical functions, as seen in administrative burden concerns in Massachusetts v. EPA (2007). Potential for Abuse: With local control over placement, there's a risk of misuse for political or financial gain, where cameras might be placed in areas not necessarily for safety but for revenue, touching on the principles of fairness and public trust discussed in Nollan v. California Coastal Commission (1987). I oppose this legislation due to concerns over privacy invasion, selective enforcement, over-policing, inadequate public notification, financial burdens on citizens, the lack of human judgment in enforcement, administrative overload, and the potential for abuse, advocating for a more balanced approach that prioritizes safety while respecting privacy, fairness, and due process.

Please pass this bill regarding distracted drivers making them responsible for accident or injury of other users of the road.

I SUPPORT THE USE OF SPEED TICKET CAMERAS ALONG VARIOUS PARTS OF ROUTE 17 AND ESPECIALLY GOING FROM WARRENTON TO MARSHALL DURING THE RUSH HOUR PERIODS AT INTERSECTIONS LIKE OLD TAVERN AND ENON CHURCH RD, AND BELVIOUR RD. NOT MANY DRIVERS ADHEAR TO THE SPEEED LIMITS AND MOST DON'T EVEN SLOW DOWN AT SPEED LIMIT REDUCTIONS OF 45 AND 35 WHEN APPROACHING MARSHALL. THERE ARE NUMEROUS TIMES IT IS SIMPLY DIFFICULT TO CROSS RT 17 FROM ENON CHURCH TO GO TO MARSHALL FORCING ME TO MAKE A RIGHT AND THEN TRY MAKING A LEFT AT THE NEXT INTERSECTION OR FROM THE OLD TAVERN SIDE TRYING TO CROSS RT 17 TO MAKE A LEFT TOWARD MARSHALL. RT 17 IS NOT RT 66

I am writing to support HB 1664, HB 1666, HB 1673, and HB 2041, which address different aspects of the implementation of speed safety and general photo enforcement of traffic in Virginia. These tools provide valuable low-impact enforcement in a manner that optimizes law enforcement capacity and more consistently addresses illegal behavior. As a resident of Richmond, VA and a daily pedestrian in a busy part of the city, I very much want actual enforcement of traffic laws, as opposed to the very intermittent enforcement possible without speed and traffic safety cameras.

Norfolk’s streets are treacherous for pedestrians, dog walkers, cyclists, scooter and wheelchair users, as well as automobile drivers. Aggressive drivers have gotten away with breaking the laws for so many years that they have become comfortable behaving aggressively. In addition to driving 60 mph on 30 mph residential streets, they run red lights and stop signs, and turn right on red traffic lights from left lanes. They harass pedestrians and cyclists they perceive as having no right to use the streets. Approximately 11 percent of Norfolk households do not have cars. They walk, ride a bike, are on motorized wheelchairs to bus stops, work places, and schools. They often have to travel early and late in the day, in the dark, further exposing them to the risk of being hit by a driver of an oversized automobile. Two months ago, a man and his two dogs were hit and killed on Colley Avenue, a pedestrian corridor. It is time to use technology to enforce the law and make our streets and roads safe for all users.

Traffic safety is our number one public safety concern. We strongly support measures to increase our authority to implement automated enforcement including speed cameras. Thank you.

Please support HB1664 and HB1666. These bills provide important safety enhancements that will benefit all citizens, includingthose of us living near Route 17, which has become very busy.

Thank you for this opportunity. I live on Enon Church Road, at the intersection of Rte 17 and Old Tavern Rd, across from Great Meadow Event Center. I and my family strongly support the speed camera legislation because there are some roads that are simply so dangerous, that lives depend on taking concrete action to reduce speeds. (I say this as someone who had lived in DC for many years and detests the speed cameras in zones with artificially low speeds that seem designed only to generate revenue) Route 17 can only be described as treacherous. My husband and I live in fear for our 3 children, 2 daughters-in-law, neighbors and ourselves who must enter and exit Rte 17 daily, as well as unsuspecting travelers who may not understand the uniquely dangerous nature of Rte 17. Our fears are based in real life experience. Since we moved to The Plains in 2016, I'm aware of five deaths at our intersection. One of those deaths was my father. My father was in perfect health when he attempted to drive across Rte 17 to visit us, and was T-boned by a speeding car. He was airlifted to INOVA Fairfax, and suffered for a week in the trauma intensive care unit before passing away. We have heard crashes at our intersection from our house a mile away. After hearing one crash, I drove to the intersection to find a red Suburban carrying a family that had been T-boned. The helicopter had just arrived, there was a baby seat by the side of the road, and an ambulance crew was slowly wheeling a gurney with a draped body to an ambulance. That was just one of the accidents I witnessed that was caused by high speeds on Rte 17. Rte 17 between Marshall & Warrenton is uniquely dangerous because of its dual nature. This is the other side of Rte 17's dual nature as both a local road and a super highway.It presents as a scenic country road, lined with driveways from which residents must slowly emerge, and numerous intersections with small country roads from which lower speed drivers enter and exit. School buses stop and start, and large trailers carting livestock lumber onto and off of 17. Despite its function as a local road, Rte 17 also functions as a major high speed highway and commuter route - picture 495 or 95 with heavy, high speed traffic. Cars, trucks, and tractor trailers fly through at speeds well over the limit that would not allow them to slow down in time to avoid a car entering or exiting 17 at a lower speed. It appears that many of these drivers are using Rte 17 as if it were an interstate highway in order to avoid Rte 81, and this use will only increase as traffic at the inland port increases. In addition, commuters leaving Rte 66 use Rte 17 (via Old Tavern Road) to avoid the slow traffic on Rte 29. I've observed that they are typically in a hurry and pay little attention to speed limits. The combination of these high speed drivers, mixed with lower speed drivers who are entering and exiting Rte 17 at its many driveways, intersection, and school bus stops. It has resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. There are many other roads that share these characteristics with my local section of Rte 17. When a road is used by both local travelers, who are typically traveling at lower speeds, and longer distance travelers, who are typically traveling at higher speeds, the danger is acute. It is essential to control speed, and I and my family believe that speed cameras would be an effective tool to do so.

I support HB 1666 and HB 1664 to allow Photo Enforcement Speed Ticket Cameras to be allowed on Virginia Roads to reduce the crashes, deaths and injuries. Police need this help to get it under serious control where it is worst. It's about public safety, and NOT about making money.

I support HB 1664 and 1666 to pass into law. These devices represent technology that works very well to assist police to keep the speeding much lower and speed limit obeyed. Its clearly showing that they work in school zones from huge reduction in speeding per what I hear from our police forces. If our toll roads can issue me a fine in the mail using photo camera technology than why NOT for speed ticket cameras on roads that have known bad speeding problems that police get under control. My horse trailer is slow moving, and when I use Rte 17 in Fauquier County to take my daughter to riding events, it is very dangerous for us and our horse due to speeding cars and tractor trailers. Virginia also has so many crashes that cause LONG delays I can only think it would reduce those types of ongoing delays also so truckers deliver their cargo on time and people get to work more on time. They work, proven to work now very well in school zone, and now time to expand them for use on more dangerous roads. Thank you and I hope you all see the value of this technology that we did NOT have access to just 15 years ago.

I fully support SB 1664 and 1666 to pass into law so citizens have technology to assist our police forces to address the over 20 years of out of control speeding on Rte 17 in Fauquier County. I lived here for 24 years, and the number of times I have almost been hit by either me swerving out of the way or the speeder behind me swerving from my vehicle in just inches happens so much its beyond counting anymore. It truly is that bad. Some of you I am sure could care less who vote on these types of bills because its all about protecting the tractor trailer drivers who deliver the cargo as FAST as POSSIBLE for the Ports of Virginia to the inland marine port in Front Royal Virginia in relation to the millions of dollars invested in the ports. I have watched the recorded RGA statements from 2023 and 2024 made by Secretary of Transportation Sheppard Miller to the Senate and HOD Transportation and Public Safety Committees how he says public safety is there #1 priority, death rates on Virginia highways continue to rise every year and it needs serious attention. Mr Miller also stated how the ports of Virginia are booming in business and making Millions of dollars which is good, but we need these Speed Ticket Cameras in place to help our police get it under serious control. A fellow supporter in our group had to speak Governor Youngkin directly to ask him to help us out with the millions of drivers speeding on Rte 17 Marshall to Warrenton which is a major tractor trailer "Trade Route" now. The police were NOT really listening to us for all these years complaining and all we heard from them is its "To much speeding and not enough police to go around with so many other problems also". Rte 17 is used heavily by school buses, who look like they are standing still when doing 55mph compared to all the speeders. The school bus routes are a EXTENSION OF THE SCHOOL ZONE per what my citizen group has been saying for last few years, and I agree. If it requires having the speed cameras turned OFF for certain parts of the day to get them in place, then let it be done but having them out there alone forces drivers to obey the speed limit whether ON or OFF. This is coming from both State Police and Sheriff Dept, and the data I was shown proves it. I have driven on Rte 17 at least 30 times where speed ticket cameras are in place at Liberty High School and the vast majority of drivers are obeying the speed limit strictly there all 30 times. The signs that say "Photo Enforcement" is like having a police officer present all the time, and thats what we need up on our section of Rte 17 where we have NO traffic lights and the speeding is heavy and fast. Tractor trailer drivers are like speeding tanks and hauling all forms of cargo that could explode. In 2017 we had a propane tanker flip over from speeding, and many others have in the past. Neighbors I know have been injured and some of their family members KILLED on Rte 17. This is NOT about making money, but all about INCREASING PUBLIC SAFETY THRU REDUCING THE SPEEDING. The camera systems I have reviewed how they work and its FAIR. Blocking speed ticket cameras from being allowed to help police is control the speeding, and increase public safety has gone on far to long, and clearly a link meant to allow truckers to speed to make the ports LOTS of MONEY. Further blocking these bills is going to warrant a full scale investigation citizens are saying. I vote to allow them. Thank you

I support these bills to pass into law. This will help improve our public safety on speeding roads. My family has lived on Rt 17 since 1974 and my step father, S Prentiss Porter was almost killed pulling out onto that road. I visit my 100-year-old mother who lives on Wildcat Mt, almost every day, and find that pulling out into 17 is like entering a shooting gallery. And turning in is not much better as the trucks steam around the bend behind me and basically ignore my turn signal. Thank you for your consideration. Feroline Higginson

Comments Document

I fully 100% support HB bills 1666 and HB 1664 to pass to allow for use on dangerous roads and highways with supporting data indicating speeding is excessively occurring, deaths, injuries and/or road design variables that indicate a need to have a 24 hour a day 365 day surveillance to assist both State Police and local police forces to keep the problem under more strict control of obeying the set speed limits. Myself and hundreds of Fauquier Citizens have called in, emailed and spoken up to our police forces to address it, but all we hear is too much speeding and not enough man power to go around from both State Police and Sheriff Dept since 2004. It took me to have a direct conversation with Governor Glenn Youngkin in 2023 and 2024 to address the speeding of which it did get addressed much more strictly for 4-6 months, but then again returned to being a problem and required another in person request with Governor Youngkin to help us out again. It SHOULD NOT require a citizen to go to the Governor of Virginia in order to get police to put very serious attention on the speeding problem. Even when they do, they are still allowing an average of 19mph over the set speed limit of 55mph before a citation is issued per both State Police and Sheriff police. Reckless driving by law is 20mph over the set speed limit. The police simply NEED HELP, and this Technology is the Answer. Extending the speed ticket camera onto highways like Rte 17 where school buses must STOP by law in the right hand lane to pick up and drop off children would be a "EXTENSION OF THE SCHOOL ZONE". Speed ticket camera technology is about PUBLIC SAFETY and NOT about making money. Any statistics indicating increased revenue from Speed Cameras is TESTIMONY of itself that the road area has a SERIOUS SPEEDING PROBLEM that police are unable to keep under control. It is simple as that, because speed ticket cameras allow by law 10mph over the speed limit, and ONLY issue a citation when it is 11mph over the speed limit. Citizens can decide to go to court to fight the citation if they choose just like if a police officer wrote the citation. A Police officer always Reviews all citation photo evidence prior to it being sent in the mail to the owner of the vehicle. Police force man power is still down below standards from the COVID pandemic, other society factors and an increase of police officer retirements being reached per State Police records. Photo Enforcement Speed Ticket Technology Cameras are proven to reduce the speeding and related deaths and injuries occurring in Virginia School zones since being implemented in the last 2 years. On Rte 17 in Fauquier County Virginia near Liberty High School and Cedar Lee Middle School are multiple speed ticket cameras in place and improving public safety dramatically by reducing the speeding. These devices NOW need to be expanded for use onto the many other dangerous roads that police are unable to keep under long term serious control.

As the Commonwealth's administrator for the C-PACE Program, we are the entity that educates and promotes C-PACE to jurisdictions, property owners and developers, and the A/E/C industry. We are also the entity that designed the Program and is the entity that approves C-PACE transactions based on our Program Guidelines. Seventeen jurisdictions have joined the state program (with an 18th about to join) since it opened in late 2022, representing around 50% of the state's population. Despite the difficult lending environment in 2023-2024, we closed three transactions in three different localities totaling $15,4 million with another anticipated to close in February. This is in four different jurisdictions which shows the broad interest for PACE. These projects have resulted in job creation (two hotels and an assisted living facility) as well as a reduction in energy usage and GHG emissions. As we are the entity in the so-called trenches, we see the roadblocks that developers and property owners encounter when wanting to use C-PACE. The amendments presented to you today are specifically tailored to address these roadblocks and make it easier to use C-PACE. A win-win for all. In summary, these include: 1. Clarifying use of ground leases under specific circumstances 2 Clarifying definitions around eligible properties that had incorrect references 3. Clarifying that recordation taxes are not due as it is not a DOT but a special assessment 4. Requiring timely action on the part of localities to opt into the program and 5. Increasing the lookback financing provision from 2 to 3 years to allow for greater flexibility to owners/developers. We kind ask for your support for these modifications that will increase economic development through the use of this important financing tool in the Commonwealth.

Social Determinants of Health are assessed and addressed by Community Health Workers, Community Health Representatives, Promotors, etc on a DAILY basis. We support this bill, day YES!

Please stop turning Virginia into another California, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Illinois. They are a mess because of leftist agenda. So many people have left Northern Virginia for the same reasons. Why are some of you still using illogical policies? The middle class has been destroyed by the leftist government. Why don’t you stop the hurtful agenda and work with all American citizens and the administration instead of trying to divide us again. This is why many find today’s progressive policies irresponsible. By the way, who allowed our monuments, statues , and businesses to be destroyed? Who wanted to defund the police? It was not the common sense law abiding citizens and leaders. Equality, Liberty for all Virginia.

As a fifth-generation Military family member, we have witnessed over 238 Military Funerals. There are no words that can describe the look of the mother or wife of a fallen soldier as the Officer in Charge kneels to present her with the National flag and the words " On behalf of the President of the United States and a grateful Nation," the families are trying so very hard to remain strong in the face of such total devastation of their lives. While a monument to their fallen loved ones may add only a tiny bit of solace, it is a reminder to us all of our dedication and recommitment to those we send to defend and protect us all and the oath all soldiers take "to protect and defend us against all enemies, foreign and domestic." To Protect these material reminders from random violence and abuse with a strengthening of existing legislation, as proposed in this bill, is without political motivation and is in the interest of all Americans and the Gold Star families who have endured the last measure of family sacrifice.

VALA opposes HB2054 as Virginia does not have a Medicaid waiver program for assisted living, and the Auxiliary Grant program is significantly underfunded by the Commonwealth. The current approved rate of the Auxiliary Grant is $2,079 for most of Virginia; whereas, the average cost of assisted living care in Virginia is $6,050 according to Genworth Long-Term Care Insurance. VALA agrees that Virginia needs to do more to help assisted living communities to be able to provide affordable options, but without fixing the AG program or providing an appropriate Medicaid waiver, HB2054 does not provide the appropriate method to do so. Requiring an assisted living facility to accept residents at a rate below the average cost of care and without an appropriately funded subsidy program by the Commonwealth is an unfair mandate on an already strained industry. Virginia would never go to Ruth’s Chris and require them to serve a steak meal for $10, so we cannot support requiring a service provider to do so either. Therefore, VALA opposes HB2054.

LeadingAge Virginia supports HB 2054.

LeadingAge Virginia supports HB 2054.

The eighteen member cities of the Virginia First Cities Coalition support Delegate Walker's HB 2128 as a practical and much needed update to our efforts to ameliorate blight and derelict buildings in our cities. The imposition of civil penalties on derelict buildings is as important on non-residential buildings as residential buildings/homes. The fact is, our cities are working very hard to make our downtowns, neighborhoods and community spaces vibrant and productive places to live and work. The amendments that Delegate Walker proposes will be most helpful in this regard. We urge your support.

Comments Document

Forwarding the support comments from the City's Human Services Advisory Council comprised of citizens appointed by the City Council. Please see attached letter of support for HB2137. Thank you, Cindy Mester Legislative Affairs Director

On behalf of Hamkae Center working-class and low income Asian Americans that we work with throughout the Commonwealth, I support HB2137 because it supports equitable economic opportunities for working-class and low-income Asian American communities include housing/rent costs, working conditions, wages, employment opportunities, and income inequality. Suja Mathew, Advocacy Manager

Comments Document

On behalf of City of Falls Church Council I have signed up to speak at this 1-16-2025 meeting but on the off chance to many speakers desiring to testify as well as to keep my testimony brief, I am attaching a document with additional details on the affordable housing needs and how this state code change will be beneficial. Thank you for your consideration and service to the citizens of the City and Commonwealth. Cindy Mester