ADVOCACY
Every year, VNGA develops initiatives based on grass-roots input and expertise from our members: the officers and warrant officers of the Virginia National Guard. We advocate in the General Assembly to ensure that they have the capabilities, equipment and benefits to successfully execute their mission.
YOU CAN HELP!
Contact the Director of Advocacy
Email: advocacy@vnga.us
2025 Priorities
Tuition Program Reform
Amend §23.1-506 of the Code of Virginia to reform the existing State Tuition Assistance Program to better provide suitable financial assistance to Soldiers and Airmen pursuing higher education at colleges and universities.
Build the Museum
Amend the budget bill to establish and fund the construction of the Museum of the Virginia National Guard: Education, Research, and Training Center at the historic Gardner S. Waller Depot in Richmond, Virginia.
Increase REP Funding
Amend the biennial budget bill to increase state funding for the Referral Enlistment Program, or REP, to support Army and Air National Guard end strength objectives.
Victories
’23 – In-State Tuition for Non-residents
Amended §23.1-506 of the Code of Virginia to expand eligibility for in-state tuition rates to non-Virginia students entering their Junior Year who are members of the Virginia National Guard.
23′ – Free Admittance to
Virginia’s State Parks
Amended § 10.1-202.3 of the Code of Virginia to establish a policy that entitles members of the Virginia National Guard to enter Virginia’s state parks without having to pay an admittance or parking fee.
23′ – Increase Virginia taxable
income subtraction
Amended § 58.1-322.02 of the Code of Virginia to increase the amount of Virginia taxable income subtracted from $3,000 to $5,500 and move the grade cap from O-3 to O-6 for currently serving members of the Virginia National Guard.
’22 – Increase Military Leave for Commonwealth Employees
Amended §44-204 of the Code of Virginia to increase military leave from 15 to 21 days per fiscal year for employees of the Commonwealth.
21′ – Free Vehicle Registration
Amended §46.2-744 of the Code of Virginia to remove the registration fee for issuance of special license plates to a currently serving or retired member of the Virginia National Guard.
20′ – Increase pay for State Active Duty Emergencies
Amended § 44-83 of the Code of Virginia to increase the amount of pay and allowances received by currently serving members of the Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force be equal to their rank and years of service.
NO ONE DOES MORE FOR THE VIRGINIA NATIONAL GUARD
The VNGA and its partner the Virginia National Guard Enlisted Association, represent one of the most respected voices in Richmond, Va., and within local governments across Virginia. We advocate for our Commonwealth’s Guardians and their families on an array of issues. We regularly meet with members of the General Assembly and elected officials, and rally our statewide network of members and patriotic supports to ensure our lawmakers put the Virginia National Guard first! When those who’ve served their commonwealth and those that support them stand together, we can not be ignored.
The Virginia National Guard Association, Inc.
Post Office Box 37037
Richmond, Virginia 23234
(804) 223-1332
contact@vnga.us