Virginia House Bill HB2666

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/15/25

Caption

Attorney General; distribution of 599 funding to distressed localities w/ high crime & poverty rate.

Impact

The bill emphasizes evaluating current 599 funding distributions and their effectiveness. By analyzing past allocations, the work group aims to determine how well such funding has contributed to reducing crime and alleviating poverty. The work group will also assess whether adjustments to the distribution formula are necessary to enhance funding efficiency, potentially influencing future legislative actions regarding financial support for at-risk communities.

Summary

House Bill 2666 intends to address challenges faced by distressed localities with high crime and poverty rates in the state of Virginia. The bill mandates the Attorney General to convene a work group consisting of legislators, local elected officials of affected areas, and other relevant experts to discuss the distribution of 599 funding. The focus is primarily on how these funds impact crime and poverty metrics in those localities that receive the aid.

Contention

A significant point of contention surrounding HB2666 may lie in how the work group determines eligibility for funding distribution among different localities. Debates could arise concerning which localities are classified as 'distressed' and the criteria used for that classification. There may also be discussions regarding the overall effectiveness of the 599 funding program and whether changes recommended by the work group will genuinely lead to improved social outcomes or serve other political interests.