House Joint Resolution 85 is a commendatory resolution honoring Katie Register upon her retirement from Clean Virginia Waterways in 2024. The resolution recognizes her career in environmental conservation and public service, especially her leadership of Clean Virginia Waterways, a program formerly affiliated with Longwood University, and her long-standing work to protect Virginia’s waterways.
The resolution highlights Register’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution, improve waste management, expand environmental education, and coordinate large-scale cleanup initiatives across the Commonwealth. It credits her with helping organize volunteer efforts that removed millions of pounds of debris from rivers, streams, and shorelines, and with coauthoring the Virginia Marine Debris Reduction Plan, described as the first marine debris reduction plan on the U.S. East Coast.
Impact
HJR85 does not change state law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its effect is ceremonial: it formally commends an individual and directs the Clerk of the House of Delegates to prepare a copy of the resolution for presentation. The resolution also serves to publicly recognize Clean Virginia Waterways’ work and the broader policy areas of marine debris reduction, litter prevention, environmental education, and watershed stewardship.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and appreciative. The General Assembly unanimously agreed to the resolution in both chambers, reflecting broad bipartisan support for honoring Katie Register’s environmental leadership and public service. The language of the resolution is celebratory, emphasizing admiration, gratitude, and recognition of her lasting contributions to the Commonwealth.
Contention
There is no apparent contention in the bill text or available legislative history. Because HJR85 is a ceremonial commendation rather than a policy measure, it does not present competing stakeholder interests or substantive policy disagreements. The only notable focus is on the scale and significance of Register’s environmental work, including volunteer mobilization, marine debris research, and partnerships with public and private organizations.