Virginia senator says bill for new Wizards, Capitals arena is dead - ESPN

Sen. L. Louise Lucas, a leading Democratic Virginia legislator, on Monday said that proposed legislation to help pave the way for the NBA's Washington Wizards and NHL's Washington Capitals to relocate to northern Virginia is dead, as far as she's concerned.

Lucas, chair of the Senate Finance & Appropriations Committee, first said over the weekend on social media that legislation underpinning the deal was «not ready for prime time» and would not receive a hearing in her committee. The decision in effect killed the Senate version of the legislation because of a procedural deadline this week, though another bill is making progress in the House of Delegates, which is also controlled by Democrats.

Lucas on Monday said Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin had made a series of mistakes in trying to advance the deal through a General Assembly now in full Democratic control after November's elections.

Youngkin took a broad swipe at Democrats during a weekend speech at Washington and Lee University, saying the party does «not believe in — nor do they want — a strong America.»

Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell said his caucus has concerns about whether the governor is truly willing to consider its priorities, including legislation to establish recreational cannabis sales and further increase the minimum wage, in negotiations over the legislation. Lucas is also seeking toll relief for the Hampton Roads region.

Asked if the deal was «dead,» Lucas responded bluntly: «As far as I'm concerned, it is.»

Lucas was asked if changes to the House version of the bill, which will cross over to the Senate for consideration assuming it clears a floor vote, could make the proposal palatable.

She answered by saying she had a strenuous objection to