Elaine Luria: “Today I rise in support of my bipartisan and bicameral bill, H.R. 4566, the Virginia Beach Strong Act. Just over 6…”

“Today I rise in support of my bipartisan and bicameral bill, H.R. 4566, the Virginia Beach Strong Act. Just over 6 months ago, our Virginia Beach community suffered a devastating tragedy. On May 31, 12 wonderful people lost their lives in a mass shooting in the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. During our great city's darkest hour, we showed the world the strength and resolve that makes us Virginia Beach Strong. We saw first responders heroically running into building 2, sacrificing their safety to save others; doctors working long hours to provide victims with expert care; and many other displays of courage. May 31, 2019, was a day that will change Virginia Beach forever. We will always remember the 12 individuals we lost that day and their irreplaceable contributions to our Virginia Beach Strong community. My heart continues to grieve for those who lost their lives, their families, and everyone who loved them. Today, many families of the victims are still facing financial hardships related to the shooting, in addition to the unfathomable loss of a loved one. In the aftermath of May 31, the city of Virginia Beach established a fund to help victims, survivors, and their families. Unfortunately, a technicality in the Tax Code means that these donations will likely not be considered tax deductible. That is why I introduced the Virginia Beach Strong Act.…”