RICHMOND (AP) — Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s changes to the state budget and amendments to other bills, as well as 40 vetoes, are setting up a fight with the GOP-controlled General Assembly next week.
McAuliffe announced Tuesday that he was seeking to slash funding from $10 million to $5 million for a 2019 celebration of the 400th anniversary of the House of Burgesses at Jamestown. Top Republicans leaders have said the full $10 million is necessary to fund the celebration adequately.
Democrat McAuliffe said he needs the extra money to cope with problems caused for the state’s economy by President Donald Trump’s agenda.
The governor has also vetoed legislation on hot button social issues like guns, abortion and immigration. Lawmakers will respond to the governor’s actions on April 5, when the General Assembly reconvenes.