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Bill

SJ 409

Commending the Lorton Community Action Center.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by J.R. Henson and 2 co-sponsors

Ceremonial Senate resolution commends the Lorton Community Action Center for 50 years of service, boosting visibility and support without new laws or funding.

Bill text as passed Senate and House (SJ409ER)
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Bill Summary · SJ 409

SJ409: Senate Joint Resolution Commending the Lorton Community Action Center

Overview

SJ409 is a ceremonial resolution that commends the Lorton Community Action Center on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. The measure recognizes the organization’s longstanding service to Fairfax County residents and directs the Clerk of the Senate to prepare a copy of the resolution for presentation. The bill was introduced February 17, 2025, passed both chambers (SJ409ER) in February 2025, and carries no appropriation or substantive policy changes.

Purpose and Intent

  • Acknowledges and commends the Lorton Community Action Center for five decades of service to individuals and families in need.
  • Highlights the organization’s role in providing food, clothing, emergency assistance, and outreach aimed at promoting self-sufficiency.
  • Honors the organization’s leadership, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners for their contributions.
  • Provides formal expression of admiration from the General Assembly for the Center’s impact in Fairfax County and the Commonwealth.

Key Provisions

  • The General AssemblyCommends: The Lorton Community Action Center for its 50 years of service.
  • A directive that the Clerk of the Senate prepares a copy of the resolution to present to the Center.
  • The resolution explicitly notes the Center’s aim to support vulnerable individuals and families in Fairfax County and the Commonwealth.

Background and Context

  • Founded in 1975 as the Lorton Community Information Center by Christine Herbstreith, described as a “supermarket of human services.”
  • Expanded beyond Lorton to areas including Fort Belvoir and Newington; broadened services to include emergency financial assistance and self-sufficiency outreach.
  • In 2022, moved into the Lorton Community Center and Lorton Library, enhancing service delivery.
  • 2024 metrics highlighted the Center’s impact: nearly 2,000 people served; over $190,000 in rent and utility assistance; 12,000+ volunteer hours; about 9,800 food pantry visits; and more than 590 household services provided.
  • 50th anniversary events: gala on April 26, 2025, and a community-wide celebration on May 18, 2025.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • Introduced: February 17, 2025 (25107529D).
  • Engrossed by the Senate: February 19, 2025; agreed to by Senate by voice vote the same day.
  • House actions: Agreed to by the House of Delegates by voice vote on February 20, 2025.
  • Enrolled: SJ409ER reflects passage by both chambers and enrollment on the same general timeline.
  • Patrons and Delegates: Patron—Surovell; Delegates—Henson and Tran.

Impact and Implications

  • No new laws, funding, or regulatory changes; purely ceremonial recognition.
  • Enhances visibility and community acknowledgment of the Center’s work.
  • May bolster public awareness, morale, and support for ongoing and future programs.

Notable Dates to Watch

  • 50th anniversary gala: April 26, 2025
  • Community-wide celebration: May 18, 2025

This summary captures the bill’s ceremonial nature, recognizing the Lorton Community Action Center’s 50-year legacy and ongoing community contributions without altering statutory or budgetary provisions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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