Legislative Policy

VRPS believes that parks, open space, and recreation services are basic needs of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia.  Furthermore, VRPS believes the quality of life for Virginians will be greatly enhanced through the protection of adequate park, recreation and conservation areas, appropriate programs and facilities, and the conscientious use of the environment.  These provisions can be assured only by the aggressive and cooperative efforts of all members involving public and private agencies at the local, state, and national level.

VRPS Legislative Tool Kit

The VRPS Legislative Tool Kit contains basic information that VRPS Members can use for Legislative Activities.  Most everything you will need for contacting your legislators, writing letters and expressing your thoughts with elected officials can be found in it.  It will be updated periodically.  Let us know if you have any suggestions or questions.  For the tool kit,  click here.

VRPS Position Statement on Unfunded Mandates to Localities - Adopted November 18, 2010

House Bill 682, Expansion of Gang-Free Zones passed by General Assembly

House Bill 682 introduced by Delegate Jackson Miller, (Manassas) with support of Senator Henry Marsh, (Richmond) passed the 2010 Virginia General Assembly.

The bill expands current “gang free school zones” to the broader “gang free zones” and includes any publicly owned or operated community center or recreational center.  Engaging in criminal street gang activity in a gang free zone is a class 5 or 6 felony and may include a two year mandatory minimum sentence, depending, on other aggravators.

This is a big victory for VRPS, as we have been seeking this expanded coverage for recreation facilities for several years.