In a news release on Wednesday night, Youngkin said, “We have a duty to protect the people of the Commonwealth of Virginia from harm. I vetoed 22 bills that protect illegal immigrants or hinder law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judges from holding criminals accountable and bringing them to justice.”
Governor Youngkin has vetoed a total of 50 bills since the end of the General Assembly’s regular session on March 9. These actions signal a confrontational tone in his dealings with Democratic leaders over legislation priorities such as tax cuts and a proposed $2 billion sports arena in Alexandria.
Youngkin’s recent actions indicate his reluctance to compromise, setting the stage for a potentially contentious legislative session when lawmakers return to review his vetoes and proposed legislative changes in April.
The bills vetoed by Youngkin were predominantly sponsored by Democrats and passed along party lines, making it unlikely for the two-thirds majority required to override the governor’s decisions to be achieved.
One of the vetoed bills, House Bill 776, allowed legal immigrants applying for U.S. citizenship to serve as chiefs of police or law enforcement officers. However, Youngkin expressed concerns that this bill could potentially affect the hiring process for law enforcement agencies.
Another vetoed bill, Senate Bill 69, sought to permit immigrants with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status to hold law enforcement positions.
In addition to the vetoes, Governor Youngkin signed 36 bills into law and proposed amendments to two others. These signed bills encompass various measures, including restrictions on the use of dogs in correctional facilities and permanent permission for restaurants to sell mixed drinks to-go.
