WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SJ 388

Commending Voices for Virginia's Children.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lashrecse Aird and 47 co-sponsors

The Resolution formally commends Voices for Virginia's Children for 30 years of advocacy, data-driven policy work, and youth leadership (no policy or funding changes).

Bill text as passed Senate and House (SJ388ER)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJ 388

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution No. 388 (SJ388ER) — Commending Voices for Virginia's Children

Overview

SJ388ER is a ceremonial Senate Joint Resolution recognizing Voices for Virginia's Children on the occasion of its 30th anniversary. The bill expresses the General Assembly’s admiration for the organization’s contributions to children in Virginia. It does not enact policy or authorize spending. The resolution has been enrolled after passage in both chambers: agreed to by the Senate on February 19, 2025 and by the House of Delegates on February 20, 2025. It was offered February 14, 2025 and is designated SJ388ER.

Purpose and Intent

  • Commemorate Voices for Virginia's Children for its 30-year history of advocacy and policy analysis aimed at improving outcomes for Virginia’s children.
  • Acknowledge the organization as the Commonwealth’s independent, multi-issue child policy and advocacy group, with a focus on early childhood, child welfare, health and mental health, and family economic security.
  • Recognize the organization’s role in providing data-driven insights (notably as the home of the KIDS COUNT Data Center) and in fostering youth leadership (Virginia’s Youth in Action).

Key Provisions

  • The General Assembly “commends” Voices for Virginia's Children on its 30th anniversary.
  • The Clerk of the Senate is authorized to prepare and present a copy of the resolution to Voices for Virginia's Children.
  • The resolution highlights the organization’s history, its nonpartisan advocacy, and its contributions to policy discussion, data analysis, and civic engagement.

Background on the Organization (as cited in the resolution)

  • Founded in 1994 by a nonpartisan group of child welfare advocates with support from the Freddie Mac Foundation and the Annie E. Casey Foundation.
  • Described as the Commonwealth’s only independent, multi-issue child policy and advocacy organization.
  • Focus areas include early childhood, child welfare, health and mental health, and family economic security.
  • Hosts the KIDS COUNT Data Center; operates Virginia’s Youth in Action leadership program to engage youth in advocacy and civic processes.

Legislative Timeline and Procedural Details

  • Introduced: February 14, 2025.
  • Senate action: Engrossed and agreed to by the Senate on February 19, 2025.
  • House action: Agreed to by the House on February 20, 2025.
  • Status: Enrolled as SJ388ER; no policy changes or funding provisions are included.

Impact and Beneficiaries

  • Primary Beneficiary: Voices for Virginia's Children and its stakeholders, including staff, partners, and the youth engaged through its programs.
  • Broader Impact: While ceremonial, the resolution publicly recognizes the organization’s contributions and may enhance its visibility and legitimacy in public policy discussions and community advocacy.

Bottom Line

SJ388ER is a formal, ceremonial commendation of Voices for Virginia's Children celebrating three decades of advocacy, data-driven work, and youth leadership—without altering law or appropriations.

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

Sign in to ask a question.