Advocacy

Government policies and decisions have a major impact on Virginia’s historic places. Preservation Virginia works with its partners and network of preservationists to build public support for identifying priority preservation issues and developing action strategies to ensure that Virginia’s historic places remain strong and economically sustainable for present and future generations.

Current Efforts

As 2019 nears, we’re preparing for advocacy efforts in the Virginia General Assembly and Congress. Here are some reminders about how you can help inform decision makers about the positive benefits of the state and federal historic tax credit programs.

In Congress, our colleagues at the National Trust for Historic Preservation have put together some helpful analysis about the impact of the recent election and how you can support the “Historic Tax Credit Enhancement Act”

In Richmond, the Joint Subcommittee Evaluating Tax Preferences is meeting in preparation for the upcoming Virginia General Assembly session. The Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (HRTC) program was not a topic at their October meeting. The November 19 meeting agenda has not been posted at this date. Visit this page for updates as the 2019 session approaches.

Thanks to all who have reached out to Delegates and Senators over the summer. There is still time to contact your legislators. Call and make an appointment to:

• Share information about a recent or upcoming HRTC project in their district and the analysis of impacts from the findings of the Baker Tilly and VCU CURA studies.
• Invite your Senator and Delegate to tour a HRTC project or a ribbon cutting— emphasize the number of jobs generated by the project, revitalization of the area, and number of occupants of the completed building.
• Email any feedback to Preservation Virginia CEO Elizabeth Kostelny.

Lastly, mark your calendar for our annual Legislative Reception on January 23, 2019!