Waiting in line for half an hour in 15-degree weather outside the General Assembly did not deter our VBCF advocates! Despite the bitter cold and a packed legislative building, nearly 30 dedicated volunteer advocates from across the Commonwealth made a significant impact during our 2025 State Breast Cancer Advocacy Day last week. Advocates traveled from as far as Richlands in Southwest Virginia, Madison Heights, and Roseland, to Surry, Alexandria, and closer to Richmond, including Mechanicsville and Henrico. A special shout-out to 8th grader Gwen for joining her mom to advocate with us! We are so grateful to these incredible volunteers for sharing their time and energy with us!
Our advocates met with over 30 Delegates, Senators, and their aides to discuss VBCF’s 2025 priority legislation. Here are the key initiatives they championed:
Priority #1: Removing Financial Barriers to Essential Breast Imaging – HB1828/SB1436
These bills aim to eliminate out-of-pocket costs—such as co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance—for diagnostic and supplemental breast imaging. Applies to health insurance plans that are regulated by the Commonwealth of Virginia. VBCF has been working closely with Delegate Shelly Simonds (70th District), the recipient of our 2023 “More Than A Pink Ribbon Legislative Impact Award,” to advance this legislation over the past few years. We are deeply grateful for her continued leadership on this issue. [Fact Sheet]
Priority #2: Shielding Patients from Unfair Medical Debt Collection Practices – HB1725
This bill will safeguard Virginians from extreme forms of medical debt collection practices, such as foreclosing on homes and garnishing wages. It’s a vital step toward protecting patients from additional financial burdens while they navigate healthcare challenges.
Many legislators we met with were familiar with our priorities and asked insightful, targeted questions. Their engagement signals that our education efforts over the years are making a difference. As in years past, we also heard personal stories from elected officials and their staff members about loved ones and friends who have battled breast cancer. These heartfelt moments are a powerful reminder of how widespread this disease’s impact truly is.
Following the meetings, our group was thrilled to be introduced on the floor of the House of Delegates by Delegate Simonds. This recognition highlighted the hard work and dedication of our advocates.
Thank You, Advocates!
Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the 2025 State Breast Cancer Advocacy Day. Your commitment and passion remind us that we are stronger together!
Legislative Updates (as of January 29, 2025)
- HB1828: Unanimously voted out of House Appropriations Subcommittee. Next Step: Full Appropriations Committee
- SB1436: Unanimously voted out of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee. Next step: Floor Vote.
- HB1725: Passed the House of Delegates on January 29, 2025. It will now “crossover” to the Senate.
Stay informed about VBCF’s advocacy work and learn how you can help by subscribing to our Action Alerts.
Advocate Stories
Crissy, advocate from Midlothian
“As a breast cancer survivor, I can attest to the extensive diagnostic tests I endured throughout my journey. My estimated cost for these tests was approximately $7,000—and I had health insurance. This bill would help so many women and could prevent others from canceling critical diagnostic tests due to high costs.”
Leecy, advocate from Amherst, VA
“As a 50-year-old with stage 4 breast cancer, mom of five children, and grandmother to three precious grandchildren, I spent the day yesterday advocating for HB1828/SB1436. These bills mean more affordable—and often earlier—diagnoses and treatment plans for thousands of potential breast cancer patients called back for ultrasounds and additional diagnostic testing in Virginia.”
Thank you for standing with us in the fight against breast cancer. Together, we can make a difference!
