NORFOLK, VA — Speaker Don Scott has appointed Delegate Bonita Anthony (D-92) to the newly formed Emergency Committee on Federal Workforce and Funding Impacts. The bipartisan committee will assess how proposed federal workforce reductions and funding cuts could affect Virginia’s economy and communities.
“Virginia’s 144,000 federal employees and $106 billion in federal contracts form the backbone of our economy,” said Delegate Anthony. “As a former civil servant, I understand what’s at stake. These cuts would impact not just government workers, but entire communities—from small businesses to public services.”
The committee will operate under the leadership of Chairman David Bulova (D-Fairfax) and Vice Chairman Robert Bloxom Jr. (R-Accomack). Their mandate includes:
- Analyzing economic impacts across Virginia communities
- Developing strategies to protect affected workers and businesses
- Creating policy recommendations to maintain Virginia’s economic stability
“They’re not using a surgical tool; they’re using a sledgehammer,” said Speaker Scott. “Virginia needs data-driven solutions to protect our workforce and economy.”
While Governor Glenn Youngkin has expressed confidence in Virginia’s job market to absorb displaced workers, Delegate Anthony emphasized the broader implications: “We must act now to protect Virginia’s economic future. This isn’t just about government jobs—it’s about maintaining our Commonwealth’s position as a leader in the federal contracting space and protecting the small businesses that depend on these workers.”
The committee will convene its first meeting by May 1, 2025, and deliver comprehensive recommendations by December 15, 2025.
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