Make-A-Will Month; designating as August 2026 and each succeeding year thereafter.
Impact
The resolution highlights that many individuals fail to create wills, leading to decisions regarding their estates being made by the government according to applicable laws. By designating a specific month for this purpose, state and local agencies will have the chance to provide resources and information that can assist residents in understanding the will-making process, which can include guidance on dealing with digital assets and making charitable contributions through estates.
Summary
HJR23, introduced in the House of Delegates of Virginia, aims to designate August of each year as Make-A-Will Month. The resolution emphasizes the importance of having a will, which serves as a legal document detailing how an individual's assets and property should be distributed after their passing. The intention is to encourage all Virginians, regardless of their financial status, to create or update their wills, ensuring that their wishes are respected and that the burden on surviving family members is minimized during grieving periods.
Contention
While HJR23 presents a positive initiative aimed at improving state residents' awareness regarding the importance of wills, potential contention may arise concerning the accessibility of these resources. Critics could argue that without sufficient outreach and support, such initiatives might not effectively reach lower-income populations who may lack adequate information or means to create wills. Additionally, ensuring that the resources provided cater to diverse communities and their specific needs could be a significant area of discussion.