Barbara Favola

03/08/2026

It is incredibly sad to hear of Senator Janet Howell’s passing. Senator Howell was a great fighter for women’s reproductive rights, economic equity, providing services to survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, and so many other important causes. She showed by example how to break glass ceilings and be an effective legislator. I send my love and support to the Howell family.

02/08/2026

Honored to give the opening remarks of the closing performance of 1776 by the McLean Community Players! As we celebrate 250 years of the United States, productions like 1776 remind us that our nation’s story is still being written. Each generation has a responsibility to preserve our democracy, protect our civil liberties and continue the work of building a more perfect union.

31/07/2026

Once again, the Trump administration is making it more difficult for seniors to live a healthy and affordable life by reducing prescription drug subsidies available through Medicare Part D. These subsidies are a safety net for millions of Americans and nearly 690,000 Virginians. The Virginia General Assembly, working with Governor Spanberger, has made significant investments to improve affordability and access to healthcare, but these investments will not be enough to offset Trump’s harmful decisions.

Lawmakers who are complicit with these federal policies must be held accountable. You can read more from Governor Spanberger here: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2026/july-releases/name-1121836-en.html

The prescription drug benefit is used by millions of seniors.

27/07/2026

Dr. Alfred Taylor was a friend and mentor. His leadership helped create a culture of inclusive, civil dialogue in Arlington, and because of his work, so many diverse voices now have a seat at the table. I will always be grateful for his friendship and guidance. I send my love and support to his family.

Following the passing of Arlington resident and civic leader, Dr. Alfred O. Taylor Jr., Delegates Lopez, Hope, and McClure, and Senators Favola and Bennett-Parker released the following statement:

“We were incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Alfred O. Taylor. Dr. Taylor was a beloved leader who was an advocate for human rights, fighter for racial equality, and bridge builder among diverse communities. Besides his involvement with Macedonia Baptist Church, and his leadership in the Green Valley Civic Association, one of the greatest services he provided to Arlington was that of a historian and storyteller. Through this work, Dr. Taylor documented the lives of over one hundred Green Valley residents and the community they built together in the face of segregation. We send Dr. Taylor’s family and friends our deepest sympathies.

In his writing, Dr. Taylor helped to bring life to so many important stories that may have otherwise been forgotten. He will be dearly missed, but his works and legacy will always live among us.”

23/07/2026

The VA Disability Commission will be working with stakeholders and DMAS to support live-in caretakers. The commission is interested in stakeholder views on the DMAS-proposed electronic verification policies. The commission will also be reviewing access to education and healthcare services for the ID/DD population.

23/07/2026

Excited that the School Health Services Committee (SHSC) will be working with VDOE and DBHDS on identifying best practices for mental health screenings in our schools. HB355 directed the SHSC to report our findings to the General Assembly no later than the first day of the 2027 Session.

21/07/2026

08/07/2026

Today, the Behavioral Health Commission, chaired by Creigh Deeds, toured the Chesterfield Recovery Academy, a program for high schoolers that provides academic and career training to students on a substance use recovery journey. Tailored programming, wrap around services and supports for families make this Academy special.

So glad the state of Virginia is investing in this Academy and other similar programs. Early intervention saves lives. You can learn more about the meeting here: bhc.virginia.gov/meetings.asp

04/07/2026

Happy July 4th! Today is a time to celebrate the values that make us proud to be an American and a time to reflect on the changes necessary to create a more perfect union. Wishing you all a safe and joyous holiday! 🇺🇸🎆

You can see a list of local events and safety tips here: https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Topics/July-4th

30/06/2026

On the last day of Pride Month, I want to thank HHR Secretary Figueroa and Health Brigade, Virginia’s oldest free clinic, for convening an important conversation about LGBTQ healthcare. I strongly believe every Virginian deserves access to the healthcare they need without fear or discrimination.