Building a Virginia Where Everyone Can Learn, Live, and Thrive
Housing
Every Virginian deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. Shelly is working to make housing more accessible for everyone: families, seniors, and young professionals alike.
She is committed to tackling the housing crisis head-on by supporting policies that increase affordable housing options, protect renters from unfair practices, and promote responsible development that strengthens communities.
She introduced legislation to make it easier for homeowners to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), helping increase housing supply and create more options for multi-generational families. She has championed “Faith in Housing” initiatives which allow churches to use underused land into affordable housing and promoted mixed-use development that builds vibrant, inclusive communities.
Education
Every child in Virginia deserves access to a world-class education. As the Vice Chair of the House of Delegates Education Committee, Shelly is committed to ensuring that every student has the tools to thrive.
Her focus on STEM education, career and technical training, and fair teacher compensation helps prepare the next generation for the jobs of tomorrow.
Through her work on the State Commission on School Construction and Modernization, Shelly is securing funding to modernize classrooms, and she’s brought money back to Newport News to expand programs like the Denbigh Aviation Academy, ensuring our schools are ready for a rapidly evolving economy.
Environment and Clean Energy
Climate change is a pressing issue that cannot be ignored, and Shelly, as a member of the House committee on Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources, is committed to addressing it. She supports solar and offshore wind development, opposes fracking and uranium mining, and partners with local conservation groups to protect natural resources and expand access to the James River.
Shelly also champions environmental justice legislation, ensuring every Virginian, no matter their ZIP code, has clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment.
Virginia’s future depends on sustainable growth, and Shelly is leading the charge to make the Commonwealth a clean-energy leader.
Health and Lowering Drug Costs
Quality, affordable healthcare shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone. Shelly is working to expand access to care and reduce costs for Virginia families.
She has carried legislation to eliminate out-of-pocket costs for essential breast cancer imaging and crack down on prescription drug price gouging.
Her focus is on practical solutions that make healthcare affordable, accessible, and equitable.
Democracy
Democracy works best when everyone can participate. As someone who once had a tied election and lost by random draw, Shelly is a consistent advocate for voting rights and fair elections. She supports legislation that makes voting more accessible, and stands firmly against efforts to roll back voting rights in Virginia.
Her commitment is clear: every Virginian deserves a voice and a vote that counts.
Transportation
A connected Virginia means more opportunity for everyone. Shelly fights for affordable, efficient, and sustainable transportation solutions across Hampton Roads and beyond. She’s working to expand public transit, build more sidewalks and improve pedestrian and bike safety in Newport News, reduce traffic congestion, and ensure transportation dollars are spent wisely.
Shelly has supported the Housing Near Jobs initiative, which encourages the development of affordable homes near transportation hubs and big employers, helping Virginians spend less time commuting and more time at home with their families.
Protecting Women’s Rights
Every woman deserves autonomy and respect in making her own healthcare decisions. Shelly defends access to reproductive healthcare, including prenatal care, cancer screenings, and family planning services—free from government interference. She serves on the Maternal Health Data and Quality Measures Task Force and the Women’s Health Commission, working to improve health outcomes across Virginia.
Shelly will always stand up for women’s rights, health, and equality.
Public Safety
Safe communities are built on trust, balance, and common sense. Shelly supports responsible, effective safety measures that protect Virginians while respecting the rights of responsible gun owners. Her four-point public safety plan focuses on prevention, accountability, mental health support, and community engagement, ensuring a Virginia where every family feels secure.