Legislation that passed

HB 2289 moves homeowner association disputes from Circuit Court to General District Court.  This change is consistent with other recent moves to the “peoples court” and helps alleviate the burden on Circuit Courts while reducing costly legal fees for HOAs and HOA members.

HB 2290 requires homeowner associations to notify residents when they spray pesticides on common property as condos and apartments must do now.  This will protect children and pets from harmful chemicals on the lawn after pesticides are applied.

HB 2292 allows patients to receive their health records electronically. With millions of dollars being spent to handle medical records electronically, this step is necessary to allow patients to receive their records the same way.

HB 2286 conforms Virginia insurance regulation to new federal laws so that specialized property and casually coverage for unique risks e.g., elite athletes, can be sold in the State. This legislation is likely to raise about $12 million in premium license taxes. The Bureau of Insurance sought this bill.

HB 2291 updates public health immunization protocols in the school age population.  The Health Department requested this bill.

Other legislation introduced

HB 2287 would have set inspection fees at waste-to-energy facilities so that landfills do not hold an even greater advantage.  Waste-to-energy is better for our environment and our long-term energy needs. 

HB 2308 would have created a tax credit for anyone that bought a plug-in electric vehicle until January 1, 2015.  Supporting this new technology is important for our energy independence.  If we want to see Virginia become a leader in clean energy, we could be doing more to incentivize consumer behavior.

HB 2309 would have required that any ‘surplus’ generated at the end of the year go partially toward repaying a $17.6 billion debt to the Virginia Retirement System.  While this specific bill did not pass, additional funding in the budget was used to begin repaying this debt.