Cline, Ben RSS Articles

Rep. Cline Introduces Bill to Reverse Governor Spanberger’s New Sanctuary Policies and Strengthen Federal-State-Local Immigration Enforcement

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06) introduced the 287(g) Cooperation Act of 2026, legislation to strengthen federal-local immigration enforcement partnerships by requiring state and local law enforcement agencies to enter into a 287(g) memorandum of agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as a condition of receiving Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants.

“The federal government should be working hand-in-hand with state and local law enforcement to enforce our immigration laws. The 287(g) Cooperation Act ensures that communities receiving federal policing funds are also partnering with ICE to keep dangerous individuals off our streets. By strengthening these proven partnerships, we can enhance public safety, uphold the rule of law, and better protect American communities,” said Rep. Cline.

"The 287(g) program is an essential tool that has local law enforcement partner with federal law enforcement to deport dangerous criminal illegal aliens. Unfortunately, some states like Virginia are not allowing their law enforcement to turn over illegal aliens who have committed crimes to the Department of Homeland Security – this policy is not only bad, but also unfortunately deadly for too many law-abiding citizens. We applaud Rep. Cline for the introduction of the ‘‘287(g) Cooperation Act of 2026" and his steadfast commitment to improving public safety,” said Michael Hough, Co-President, NumbersUSA.

"It is unconscionable that sanctuary jurisdictions that protect illegal aliens and inhibit the enforcement of our immigration laws are nevertheless able to take advantage of Federal law enforcement grants. We thank Congressman Cline for introducing the 287(g) Cooperation Act of 2026, which ensures COPS grants are strictly limited to jurisdictions that work with ICE, not against it," said Grant Newman, Director of Government Relations, Immigration Accountability Project.

“Under the Biden administration, record numbers of criminals and national security threats flooded into our country. The 287(g) Cooperation Act is a decisive step for empowering law enforcement agencies to remove these dangerous aliens, help restore law and order, and keep communities across America safe. FAIR commends Congressman Cline for introducing this bill and looks forward to its swift passage,” said Joe Chatham, Director of Government Relations, Federation for American Immigration Reform.

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and a Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

Celebrating Virginia’s Agricultural Strength During National Agriculture Month

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Agriculture defines Virginia’s Sixth District. It shapes our communities, drives our economy, and reflects the character of the people who call the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding regions home.

Across rural Virginia, hard work is not a slogan, it is a way of life. Families rise before dawn, steward their land, care for livestock, and ensure their farms can be passed down to the next generation. That commitment is why the Sixth District remains one of the most productive agricultural regions in the Commonwealth.

Growing up in Rockbridge County, I was involved in 4-H, where I learned firsthand the importance of leadership, responsibility, and hard work. Those lessons stayed with me. They continue to guide my work in Congress and remind me that the values learned on farms and in rural communities, discipline, integrity, and perseverance, are the same values that keep our country strong.

Agriculture is the backbone of Virginia’s economy. Today, it generates more than $82 billion in annual economic activity and supports over 381,000 jobs statewide.

Virginia is home to approximately 39,000 farms covering 7.3 million acres, and about 95 percent of them are family-owned operations. These farms produce everything from poultry and beef to apples, dairy, grains, and specialty crops, feeding families across the nation while strengthening local economies here at home.

Here in Virginia’s Sixth District, agriculture remains a cornerstone of our regional economy. Local farmers generate more than $1.4 billion in agricultural output each year and support hundreds of millions of dollars in wages for hardworking Virginians. These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet. They represent families who invest their lives in feeding our nation and preserving the rural way of life that defines our region.

National Agriculture Month gives us an opportunity to recognize the men and women behind that success. Farmers, ranchers, producers, and young agricultural leaders work tirelessly to sustain our food supply, strengthen our economy, and protect our rural heritage. Their work is essential not only to Virginia, but also to our nation’s economic strength and food security.

In Congress, I remain committed to advancing policies that support our agricultural community. That includes reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens, expanding market opportunities for American producers, strengthening crop insurance programs, and ensuring that family farms remain viable for generations to come. I am also proud to support organizations that invest in the next generation of agricultural leaders, including the Future Farmers of America.

Virginia’s farmers do more than grow crops and raise livestock. They sustain communities, preserve our land, and uphold the values that built this country.

This National Agriculture Month, we recognize an industry that feeds our families, powers our economy, and anchors the future of Virginia’s Sixth District. Just as importantly, we renew our commitment to stand with the farmers and families who keep America strong.

Rep. Cline, Sens. Warner, Kaine Urge Secretary Rubio to Secure the Swift Release of Chuck Zimmerman

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In a bipartisan letter to Secretary Marco Rubio, Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA), Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), and Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) urged the State Department to prioritize the case of American citizen Charles “Chuck” Zimmerman and called for a formal designation as “wrongfully detained” by the Russian government. The lawmakers also pressed for timely diplomatic efforts to secure his release after more than 250 days in Russian custody.

“We write to elevate the plight and wrongful detention of American Charles “Chuck” Zimmerman. A father of two, Navy veteran, master electrician, and sailor, Zimmerman has been held for more than 250 days at the time of this writing under what can only be described as politically retributive pretenses,” the lawmakers wrote. “We therefore ask that this case be made a priority for the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs so that the U.S. Government can work expeditiously towards his release.”

Read the full letter here or below:

Dear Secretary Rubio:

We write to elevate the plight and wrongful detention of American Charles “Chuck” Zimmerman. A father of two, Navy veteran, master electrician, and sailor, Zimmerman has been held for more than 250 days at the time of this writing under what can only be described as politically retributive pretenses.

Zimmerman’s passion for sailing and travel extended well past his time in the Navy, and he decided it was time to realize his dream of sailing the world in a 35’ sailboat with a course set for New Zealand. On his journey, he had made it all the way to the Mediterranean and decided to explore the Black Sea before sailing through the Suez Canal.

However, almost immediately upon entering the Black Sea via the Bosphorus Strait, the Russian Navy intercepted his boat in international waters. Upon arrival, Zimmerman voluntarily declared and surrendered a firearm onboard his boat meant for self-protection, a common practice among sailors.

Following the search and seizure of the vessel that would have yielded no material threat, the Russian government arrested Zimmerman, brought what can only be seen as political charges related to arms smuggling, and imposed a retributive five-year prison sentence.

Chief among our concerns is the denial of consular services, visits, or calls that could substantiate Zimmerman’s health and wellbeing. It is our understanding that no American official has seen him in over seven months. These concerns are elevated due to our understanding that he is currently imprisoned in penal colony IK-9, with a diet that supplements gruel with only one nutritionally dense meal of protein and vegetables per week, and without any confirmed allowance for exercise.

We therefore ask that this case be made a priority for the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs so that the U.S. Government can work expeditiously towards his release. Additionally, we ask that your department designate Zimmerman as ‘wrongfully detained’ by the Russian government and continue to consider his case in the ongoing negotiations with the Russian government.

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Rep. Cline Introduces the Protecting Access to American Products Act

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA) introduced the Protecting Access to American Products Act, legislation aimed at streamlining the U.S. trade shipping process during times of supply chain strain and uncertainty. The bill amends current maritime law to ensure that products made in America are not prevented from reaching American markets. Further, it is designed to allow for administrative flexibility in circumstances where supply chain continuity is questionable. This is especially important for American energy producers, who at times face transportation barriers moving domestically produced oil and petroleum products between U.S. ports when no qualified vessel is available, potentially forcing reliance on foreign imports despite strong American production. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Excessive red tape and outdated regulations are slowing the delivery of essential goods and making it harder for Americans to access products made right here at home. The Protecting Access to American Products Act offers a commonsense, practical solution by streamlining the waiver process and helping ensure that American-made goods, including American energy products, can move across the country more easily. This legislation supports domestic manufacturing, strengthens American energy supply chains, and keeps U.S. products competitive with foreign imports while still protecting American maritime jobs. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Lee to deliver reforms that protect our domestic interests while putting American families and businesses first,” said Rep. Cline.

“Outdated regulations are forcing Americans to buy gas and other products from despotic regimes instead of our own producers,” said Senator Mike Lee. “America produces liquefied natural gas (LNG), but we can’t ship it to other American ports due to hundred-year-old red tape. States in need of LNG are forced to rely on Russia for their energy supply – a national security risk and lost opportunity for America’s economy. This bill will prioritize American manufacturing and energy dominance by allowing waivers for industries like LNG for whom the restrictions don’t make sense."

Reps. Cline, Correa, Lee, and Neguse Introduce the Bankruptcy Threshold Adjustment Act of 2026

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), alongside Reps. Lou Correa (CA-46), Laurel Lee (FL-15), and Joe Neguse (CO-02), introduced the bipartisan Bankruptcy Threshold Adjustment Act of 2026. The legislation would permanently raise the small business reorganization threshold for Chapter 11 to $7.5 million, allowing more small businesses to access a faster, more cost-effective bankruptcy process while negotiating with creditors, keeping their doors open, employees on payroll, and suppliers paid. The bill also ensures the bankruptcy system remains self-supporting and that its costs are fairly borne by those who use it.

“The Bankruptcy Threshold Adjustment Act will give small businesses the certainty they need to reorganize, restructure, and keep operating when challenges arise,” said Rep. Cline. “By permanently raising the eligibility threshold, we’re ensuring more job creators can access a streamlined and affordable bankruptcy process that helps them stay open, protect paychecks, and meet their obligations. Just as importantly, this bipartisan bill maintains the integrity of our bankruptcy system by keeping it self-supporting and fair for all who rely on it.”

“Bankruptcy is a painful last result for struggling businesses, impacting the people and communities that rely on their services. This legislation would make a streamlined and more cost-effective process accessible to more businesses, enabling them to settle their debts and continue serving their customers,” said Rep. Correa. “With the heavy burdens that Main Street already faces in this economy, we need to give them opportunities to not only survive but thrive.”

“When small businesses face financial distress, they should have a practical path to reorganize and continue operating. This legislation permanently restores the $7.5 million debt threshold so more small and family-owned businesses can access a streamlined restructuring process, preserve jobs, and continue serving their communities. I’m pleased to support this bipartisan effort to provide greater certainty for small businesses,” said Rep. Lee.

“When we enacted the Bankruptcy Threshold Adjustment Act in 2022, we responded to the economic and financial strain Americans faced in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic. Since then, this legislation has protected our local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and family-owned shops,” said Rep. Neguse. “By making this change permanent, we can protect those in our communities confronting the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and continue to ensure sufficient support for our main street economies.”

BACKGROUND: This bill builds on Rep. Cline’s previous work on this issue. As a freshman in the 2019 class, he became the first member of his class to have legislation signed into law with the Small Business Reorganization Act, which established the Subchapter V reorganization process.

Rep. Cline Introduces Bill to Protect Taxpayers From Eminent Domain Taxes

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Today, Rep. Ben Cline (VA-06), introduced the No Tax on Takings Act, a bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code to spare unsuspecting property owners from paying harsh federal taxes on a sale the government compelled them to make.

“Families should never be hit with a federal tax bill after the government forces them to sell their own property,” said Rep. Cline. “When eminent domain is used, property owners are already navigating a difficult process through no fault of their own. The federal government should not increase that burden by taxing a transaction into which they did not voluntarily enter. My bill delivers a simple, commonsense fix to the tax code to ensure Americans are treated fairly and protected from punitive tax consequences when their property is taken.”

"When governments force the sale of private property through eminent domain, taxpayers may be subject to a tax liability through no fault of their own. That’s not fair, and the No Tax on Takings Act rightly corrects this problem by amending the Internal Revenue Code to shield unsuspecting property owners from paying punitive federal taxes on a transaction they did not choose. NTU commends Congressman Cline for protecting taxpayers and we look forward to working to see this commonsense legislation signed into law,” said Thomas Aiello, Senior Director of Government Affairs at National Taxpayers Union.

“The No Tax on Takings Act aligns with Conservatives for Property Rights’ eminent domain principles. Taxing the compensation paid to a landowner reduces the amount of ‘just compensation’ received. The government compels property owners to sell land they may have had no intention of selling. So, Rep. Cline’s legislation is consistent with the Takings Clause, and CPR supports it,” said James Edwards, Founder and Executive Director at Conservatives for Property Rights.

BACKGROUND:

Currently, citizens who are compelled to give up their home, business, or land face a “double whammy” since they are:

Forced to take a dubious and subjective “fair market value” for their property; and
Required to pay capital gains taxes on any proceeds from the mandated sale.

Sixth District Perspectives with Congressman Ben Cline

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

The Department of Homeland Security went into a partial government shutdown over Democrats' unreasonable demands.
Republicans remained committed to building more homes in the market and driving down costs for American consumers.
Celebrating the contributions of Future Farmers of America this week.

Democrats Inflicted DHS Shutdown

     Last week, Senate Democrats refused to help provide the 60 votes needed to pass the funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security, jeopardizing the critical work being done every day to keep Americans safe. While ICE remains funded through 2029 as a result of H.R. 1, a lapse in broader DHS funding still undermines the overall mission by straining coordination, resources, and the support functions that allow law enforcement to protect our communities. This situation is not about funding levels. The House passed a bipartisan, negotiated full-year Homeland Security appropriations bill weeks ago. The appropriations process should not be used as leverage for unrelated policy disputes, yet that is exactly what is happening. By withholding the necessary 60 votes (Republicans only have 53 votes in the Senate), Senate Democrats are turning DHS funding into a political bargaining chip and placing frontline personnel in the middle of partisan gamesmanship.

     Discussions about reforms, oversight, and accountability can occur through the proper legislative channels. They should not come at the expense of agencies charged with securing our borders, protecting our skies, and responding to disasters. The consequences of a shutdown are real, including disruptions in reimbursements to states for disaster relief, delays in cybersecurity response and training, and forcing TSA agents to miss paychecks.

     We have seen the damage before. During the full government shutdown last year, essential personnel were required to report to work without pay while agencies were forced to narrow operations to only the most urgent, life-threatening missions. A shutdown would once again strain agencies like the Coast Guard, TSA, FEMA, the Secret Service, and our cybersecurity teams at a time when threats at home and abroad continue to grow. There is no reason to put partisan leverage ahead of homeland security. The bipartisan legislation to fund DHS through September has already passed the House. I urge Senate Democrats to reconsider this course and stand with the men and women who protect our homeland and the Americans who rely on them every day.

Making the American Dream More Affordable Again

Homeownership, long a cornerstone of the American Dream, is becoming more attainable as cost pressures ease. After years of rising prices, high mortgage rates, and low supply, recent data show that the market is stabilizing and providing new opportunities for American families. New figures indicate that the annual mortgage cost for a new home has declined by roughly $4,000 in recent months, reversing a steep increase of nearly $15,000 observed over the past few years. For families who were previously priced out of the market under the Biden-Harris Administration, this improvement represents more than just a statistic; it represents a renewed opportunity to purchase a first home and establish long-term financial security for their families. Additionally, housing production has increased by 6.2% to an annual pace of 1.4 million homes, with gains in both single-family and multifamily construction projects. Single-family housing has reached its highest level since February, another clear sign that the market is regaining stability. When builders face fewer regulations, they can increase supply, thereby benefiting the marketplace with greater availability and more competitive pricing.

Republicans have consistently advanced policies to lower costs, reduced unnecessary regulatory burdens, and prioritized American families over large institutional investors. In contrast, Democrats have proposed expansive policies such as the Green New Scam, which I opposed, arguing that it would introduce costly mandates and add new regulations to an already strained housing market. While Republicans focus on removing barriers for buyers and builders, Democratic-led rules, including expensive energy requirements and broad environmental regulations increasing building costs. Under the Biden Administration, these higher costs were passed directly to homebuyers. Republicans are ensuring a fair chance at the American Dream. Keeping the dream of homeownership within reach will require sustained efforts to expand supply, stabilize borrowing costs, and eliminate policies that make building and buying homes more costly.

Celebrating Future Farmers of America Week

Virginia’s FFA proudly celebrates its 100-year anniversary this year. Agriculture remains the backbone of our local communities and a driving force in our economy. Nowhere is that more evident than in Virginia’s Sixth District, which is home to the largest agricultural community in the Commonwealth. Our farmers, producers, and agribusinesses not only feed and fuel our nation, but they also sustain our rural communities that make Virginia strong. For nearly a century, FFA has served as a vital resource for the next generation through leadership development and real-world agricultural experience. Students gain practical skills that serve them throughout their lives, whether they go on to run family farming operations or enter the agribusiness sector.

As a member of the FFA Caucus, I remain committed to ensuring FFA continues to thrive in our local schools. We must protect and strengthen agricultural education so that future generations have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. This week, as we celebrate National FFA Week, I was proud to cosponsor a resolution honoring FFA’s contributions to agricultural education, leadership development, and community service. This resolution recognizes the lasting impact this organization has had on millions of students and reaffirms our commitment to supporting its mission for generations to come.

Casework Highlight of the Week

A constituent reached out to my office after losing his wallet in a taxi while stranded out of state following a medical consultation. Without any physical identification, he was concerned about whether he would be able to board his flight home that evening. He had already filed a report and had electronic copies of his identification and birth certificate saved on his phone, but he had been unable to reach anyone at TSA for guidance. With time running short and uncertainty growing, he turned to our office for help.

My staff immediately contacted the TSA Congressional Liaison to clarify the situation and confirmed that this constituent would be allowed to travel without a physical ID, as long as he arrived early to the airport and completed additional security screening. We quickly relayed this information to the constituent, resolving the issue the same day. He expressed sincere relief and gratitude knowing he would be able to return home safely after an already stressful medical trip.

Rep. Ben Cline Votes for SAVE America Act to Safeguard Election Integrity

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) voted in favor of H.R. 22, the SAVE America Act, introduced by Rep. Chip Roy (TX-21). The bill would require proof of citizenship to register to vote, remove non-citizens from state voter rolls, and require a valid photo ID to vote. It would also mandate in-person verification of citizenship during voter registration.

“The SAVE Act is a crucial step in preserving the integrity of our elections,” said Rep. Cline. “The right to vote is one of the most sacred responsibilities of American citizenship. Ensuring that only U.S. citizens participate in federal elections is a commonsense safeguard that upholds the rule of law and strengthens public confidence in our democratic system. My vote sends a clear message that Republicans are committed to defending free and fair elections and to protecting the voice of every eligible American voter.”

Currently, in several states, non-citizens have been able to obtain driver’s licenses, creating loopholes where these individuals can illegally register and vote in federal elections. While federal law reserves voting in federal elections as a scarce privilege for U.S. citizens, it has often undermined state efforts to enforce proof-of-citizenship requirements.

Rep. Cline asks Governor Spanberger to reconsider ICE executive order

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Lyra Bordelon | Staunton News Leader

Sixth District Representative Ben Cline signed onto a letter critical of Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s recent executive order rescinding state law enforcement cooperation with United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Spanberger’s Jan. 17 executive order directed Virginia State Police, the Virginia Department of Corrections, the Virginia Department of Wildlife, and the Virginia Marine Resources Commission to terminate “any and all” section 287(g) agreements the agencies have with ICE. The order argued the agreements “improperly ceded discretion and authority over Virginia law enforcement to federal authorities” and that “Virginia law enforcement will continue to exercise available authority under a valid judicial warrant.”

The letter called on Spanberger to restore former governor Glenn Youngkin’s 2025 executive order directing Virginia State Police and the Department of Corrections to sign Section 287(g) agreements with ICE. Spanberger’s executive order rescinded Youngkin’s.

“These recent actions are inconsistent with your previous support for law enforcement,” reads the letter. “During your campaign for Governor of Virginia, you ran on the promise to empower law enforcement and protect Virginians from violent crime. Your recent executive actions do not reflect that commitment to protection.”

Spanberger, in a press release following the executive order, argued the opposite.

“As a former federal law enforcement officer and the daughter of a career law enforcement officer, I know that effective policing is built on trust,” said Spanberger. “Like so many of Virginia’s law enforcement officers, I have serious concerns that chaotic federal law enforcement actions across the country are eroding years of trust built by our officers within the communities they serve. When state and local law enforcement are pulled away from investigating crimes and upholding our Virginia laws to do the job of federal agents, it weakens their ability to deepen trust within their communities. This contributes to a culture of fear and distrust that makes it harder for officers to do their jobs.”

The letter was also signed by Ninth District Representative H. Morgan Griffith, Second District Representative Jen A. Kiggans, First District Representative Robert Wittman and Fifth District Representative John J. McGuire III. The full letter can be found on Cline's Facebook page.

According to the letter, there are 361,000 unauthorized immigrants in Virginia with 4,264 “illegal immigrants” arrested during the first seven months of 2025.

The press release celebrated an operation in Northern Virginia which saw the arrest of 30 “gang members” of MS-13, Mexican Pride and Southside Locos. ICE itself issued a press release on the arrests, cited by the Congressional letter, explaining “of the 30 arrests, 26 individuals were arrested on administrative immigration violations and nine were arrested for criminal offenses and face prosecution for various federal, state and local crimes including re-entry after deportation, assault, grand larceny, destruction of property and carrying a concealed weapon.”

The letter also echoes a press release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Spanberger's executive order. According to DHS press release, Edwin Antonio Hernandez Hernandez of El Salvador entered the United States at age 15 in 2015. He was arrested in Virginia by U.S. Border Patrol, and an immigration judge ordered his removal in 2017. While in custody, Hernandez began the asylum process. He also allegedly admitted to being an MS-13 member and confessed to murdering five people in El Salvador.

“Numerous violent criminals such as Edwin Antonio Hernandez, a man responsible for five murders in El Salvador, have been taken off Virginia’s streets,” reads the letter. “With the absence of cooperation between state and federal law enforcement agencies, apprehending violent individuals such as Hernandez will be more difficult and dangerous to achieve.”

Read the story here.

$17 million in funding secured for I-81 improvements

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Colby Johnson | WDBJ 7

The Virginia Department of Transportation will receive an additional $17 million in federal funding for improvements on Interstate 81, adding to the $4 billion already being spent on projects over the next decade.

Virginia 6th District Republican Congressman Ben Cline secured the funding, which was included in the appropriations bill President Trump signed last week to end a partial government shutdown. The money can be used for widening and other improvements along the interstate.

“We’re very excited that $17 million was included in this transportation appropriations bill,” Cline said. “It’s going to make sure we finish up the construction sooner and get that traffic flowing faster.”

Cline described I-81 as “the economic backbone of western Virginia,” with distribution networks serving the entire East Coast depending on it. However, he said the interstate has become increasingly dangerous for local residents.

“Folks I know don’t get on 81 anymore because it’s so dangerous,” Cline said. “It was built for 15% truck traffic. Now it gets at least 30% truck traffic. If you hit it at the wrong time of the weekend, it’s over 50% truck traffic.”

Cline said the high percentage of truck traffic creates more deadly accidents.

“Those accidents that occur are much deadlier when it’s between a car and a truck than just two cars. So we have a higher death rate on 81 because of those accidents,” he said.

People who drive on I-81 every day said the interstate has several problems that the money could help address.

“The bridges. There are big pot holes before you hit the bridge, it causes a big thump on the cars,” said Nicolas Rodriguez Jr. “There’s a lot of traffic on the weekends,” added his father, Nicolas Rodriguez.

Rodriguez Jr. said he thinks adding another lane would make a big difference, something his father echoed.

“At the moment we don’t really need it, but I know in the future we will, since the city is growing,” Rodriguez said.

Austin Price spends around an hour a day traveling on I-81 for work, typically between mile markers 132 and 152. He said widening more of the road would make a big difference.

“I’d like to see it get a little bit wider due to the congestion of the tractor-trailers and everyone traveling,” Price said. “There are always a lot of accidents, especially in this probably 20 to 30-mile strip. It can hold you up anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. I think a lane extension would definitely prevent that.”

Price acknowledged that there will likely be greater delays during ongoing lane extension work, but said he thinks it will be worth it in the long run.

The $17 million represents new money on top of existing state and federal funding from gas taxes already flowing into I-81 projects.

“When I can use my influence in Washington to get this extra money sent to the Roanoke Valley, to the Shenandoah Valley, to Southwest Virginia, that’s an important victory that we can all celebrate,” Cline said.

The money will go into VDOT’s I-81 Corridor Improvement Program funds. Cline said VDOT will make the decision on where exactly the money will be used, but he hopes it can help speed up widening projects that are already underway.

“We’re so far behind in this widening effort that it’s all hands on deck. So as fast as we can get these projects done, the better,” Cline said. “If there are projects already in the pipeline that this money can help advance by six months or even more, I want to do that.”

Cline noted the complexity of current projects, including the Salem widening that has been ongoing for years and the upcoming work around Cloverdale.

“Wherever it is, whatever mile marker it is on 81. You know, we’ve got 300 miles of 81 that need widening. I want to widen from Bristol to Winchester. So I’m going to continue to work on that. And every little bit helps,” Cline said.

With projects on 81 slated through 2035, improving the road is a slow and expensive process. VDOT recently began a widening project to add a third lane in each direction between exits 143 and 150 in Botetourt and Roanoke Counties. The project will also replace several bridges and is expected to take until Summer 2031 to complete.

“Widening is going to make it safer, make it more economically successful. More businesses will want to locate here. More jobs will get created here, and that’s why we want to continue to press on this important infrastructure project,” Cline said.

VDOT said the $17 million in federal funding will be used to advance ongoing projects on I-81.

VDOT Commissioner Stephen C. Brich said in a statement: “We appreciate the support for safety improvements along this vital and important corridor in the Commonwealth and look forward to working with Rep. Cline and others as this moves forward.”

Read the full story in WDBJ 7 here.

VDOT said the $17 million in federal funding will be used to advance ongoing projects on I-81.

VDOT Commissioner Stephen C. Brich said in a statement:

“We appreciate the support for safety improvements along this vital and important corridor in the Commonwealth and look forward to working with Rep. Cline and others as this moves forward.”

VDOT said the $17 million in federal funding will be used to advance ongoing projects on I-81.

VDOT Commissioner Stephen C. Brich said in a statement:

“We appreciate the support for safety improvements along this vital and important corridor in the Commonwealth and look forward to working with Rep. Cline and others as this moves forward.”

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Luray

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Luray Town Hall (Council Chambers), 45 East Main Street, Luray, VA 22835, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Waynesboro

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:30:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Waynesboro Public Library, 600 S. Wayne Avenue, Waynesboro, VA on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 12:30 PM until 1:30 PM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Rep. Cline Announces Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Clarke County

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 15:30:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Clarke County Government Center Main Meeting Room (second floor), 101 Chalmers Ct, Berryville, VA on Tuesday, February 18th, 2025, at 10:30 AM until 12:00 PM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Salem

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Salem Public Library (Meeting Room), 28 East Main Street, Salem, VA 24153, on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025, at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Botetourt County

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 20:00:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold mobile office hours at theBotetourt County Administration Bldg (Mezzanine level), 57 S Center Drive, Daleville, VA 24083, on Tuesday, February 25th, 2025, at 3:00 PM until 4:30 PM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Alleghany/Covington

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Covington City Hall (conference room on the first floor), 333 W. Locust Street, Covington, VA 24426, on Tuesday, February 11th, 2025, at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Monterey

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 20:00:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Highland County Public Library, 31 N. Water Street, Monterey, VA 24465, on Monday, February 24th, 2025, at 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Warm Springs

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:30:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Bath County Courthouse, 65 Courthouse Hill Road, Warm Springs, VA 24484, on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 10:30 AM until 11:30 AM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Elkton

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 15:00:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Elkton Area Community Center (Council Chambers), 20593 Blue and Gold Drive, Elkton, VA 22827, on Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, at 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.

Casework Staff Mobile Office Hours in Rockbridge County

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 14:00:00 GMT

A member of Congressman Ben Cline’s staff will hold casework staff mobile office hours at the Rockbridge County Administration Building, 150 S. Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450, on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025, at 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM. A staff member will be available to meet with citizens to assist with problems they might have with a federal agency and hear their views on current issues before Congress.