Virginia Democrats Hammer Virginians with Tax-and-Spend Insanity; Senate Republicans Focus on Affordability

RICHMOND, VA – In a complete reversal of their promises to voters, Virginia Democrats are pushing a slate of policies that will make life more expensive for working families, reduce take home pay, and make it harder for businesses to operate in the Commonwealth. By moving to repeal right to work protections, raise energy costs and taxes, and pile on new employer and employee costs, Democrats will hurt workers first, discourage investment, and cost Virginians thousands of dollars.

“Without fail, Democrats are once again coming after your hard-earned money to fund their pet projects and special interests,” said Senate Republican Caucus Chair Mark Obenshain. “Democrats promised affordability, but their proposals will drain money from Virginia workers and inflict devastating damage upon Virginia’s economy. A strong economy is the foundation for the good jobs that we all rely on to support our families and build a strong future for our children. Higher taxes are a burden, and Virginians deserve better.”

Senate Republicans are offering a different approach: lower costs, lower taxes, bigger paychecks. Republicans support repealing costly energy mandates to lower utility bills, eliminating taxes on tips and overtime pay, repealing the hated car tax, eliminating the grocery tax, and extending the increased standard deduction so families keep more of what they earn. Together, these policies would save the average family more than $3,000 per year.

“Democrats promised affordability on the campaign trail, but they have introduced bills to raise taxes and pull more money out of Virginian’s wallets,” said Senate Republican Leader Ryan McDougle. “These proposals to raise taxes will do nothing but reduce worker take home pay and make it harder for people to pay their bills and put food on the table for their families. Senate Republicans will combat Democrat effort to raise real and hidden taxes on Virginia’s working families and will not allow Democrats to deceive and mislead hardworking Virginians.”

Affordability means cutting costs and taxes, not expanding government programs and keeping costs high. Virginians deserve policies that protect household budgets, grow jobs, and keep the Commonwealth competitive.

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