Counting the Votes in Virginia
In 2011, the Virginia General Assembly authorized the presentation of an eminent domain constitutional amendment on the ballot. Virginia requires passage for presentation in two consecutive terms.
One can expect the opposition to make a much stronger effort now that the issue of the second passage is before the legislature. This will not be quite as easy as one might think.
The measure easily passed both houses of the General Assembly in 2011, and now has to pass in the same form this year in order to go on the ballot.
The Republican leadership has made clear its support for the measure, guaranteeing its passage in that body. Still at issue is whether it will get out of the state Senate, where Democrats and Republicans are evenly split.
A good number of Senate Democrats, including Sen. Janet Howell (D-32nd), whose district includes part of Arlington, voted for the amendment last year. All Arlington members of the House of Delegates voted against it.
Some potential swing votes in the legislature appear to be holding firm in their positions.
Del. Mark Keam (D-Vienna/Oakton), who in 2011 supported sending the constitutional amendment to voters, told the Sun Gazette he is likely to support it again this year, despite opposition from local officials in his jurisdiction.
