Media Advisory: HUB Zones

CENTRAL VA- Today in the General Laws Committee’s subcommittee on FOIA/Procurement, my colleagues and I will hear testimony on Senate Bill 658 which deals with HUBZones. This legislation is supported by Governor Bob McDonnell.  The Governor’s office, including Secretary of Administration Lisa Hicks Thomas have worked closely with the Department of General Services and others to ensure that the HUBZones established will promote small businesses in areas of the Commonwealth that have historically and consistently been underutilized. In our district the HUBZones include a majority of Caroline County and parts of Henrico County.  This legislation would fulfill the Governor’s campaign promise to grow the economy in areas that have been hardest hit during this downturn. "I appreciate, especially in these tight economic times that must not lose focus on renewing prosperity in Virginia. Along with balancing a $4 billion shortfall to right-size and make government more efficient," noted Del. Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville) we must focus on bringing new jobs to our state which will be the ultimate way to sustained recovery."

HUB zone “means an area in Virginia as determined by the United States Small Business Administration pursuant to relevant federal law. For purposes of determining HUB zone locations for inclusion in programs established to facilitate the participation of small businesses, a public body may rely upon the accuracy of the information made available by the United States Small Business Administration.”

There is 1 HUBZone in Henrico currently qualified by the Federal Government. SB658 will establish a HUBZone program for Virginia and give contractors in those affected areas an ability to compete for state contracts.  You can see all of the HUBZones identified by the Federal Government here:  http://map.sba.gov/hubzone/hzqry.asp?scope=-79458927%7C38003385%7C482.077379485597%7C212.220469644108&command=zmin&zoomrect=377%7C207%7C0%7C0&panshift=&mapimage.x=377&mapimage.y=207 

To learn more about SB 658 visit http://leg6.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?101+ful+SB658S1.

JOBS & OPPORTUNITY LEGISLATION PASSES HOUSE OF DELEGATES

Economic Development and Job Creation are Priorities for 2010 Session

CENTRAL VA – The House of Delegates partnered with Governor Bob McDonnell to place a priority on creating a positive climate for job creation in Virginia by investing $46 million in the state budget over the course of 2011 and 2012.  The House passed an Economic Development Package to only reinvigorate programs proven to be effective in returning on investments made.

"Yes, we face a difficult budget cycle, but especially in these tough times we must have the foresight to invest in our future prosperity," said House Appropriations Chairman, Del. Lacey E. Putney, I-Bedford.  "Growing the tax base through job-creating business development is the key to Virginia's long-term economic recovery."

"I appreciate, especially in these tight economic times, that all of my colleagues worked hard to be fiscally prudent and make targeted investments for long-term dividends and renewed prosperity in Virginia. Of course, we had to balance a $4 billion shortfall in order to right-size and make government more efficient." noted Del. Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville).  "But we also focused on bringing new jobs to our state which will be the ultimate way to sustained recovery."

Included in this House Economic Development Package are targeted investments to the Governor's Opportunity Fund (GOF) and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). The GOF are discretionary funds available to the Governor to secure a business location or expansion project for Virginia. Grants are awarded to localities on a local matching basis with the expectation that the grant will result in a favorable location decision for the Commonwealth. VEDP’s mission is "To enhance the quality of life and raise the standard of living for all Virginians, in collaboration with Virginia communities, through aggressive business recruitment, expansion assistance, and trade development, thereby expanding the tax base and creating higher-income employment opportunities." These targeted measures will attract jobs and businesses to Virginia by offering economic incentives and promoting Virginia in the business world. 

Also of great importance to the package of legislation is House Bill 1381, the MEI (MEGA) Site Planning Fund patroned by Del. Ward L. Armstrong (D-Martinsville) which helps Virginia develop the "site ready" big tract sites needed to bring larger businesses to Virginia.

House Bill 803, sponsored by Del. Charles Poindexter (R-Glade Hill) and co-patroned by Del. Chris Peace allows a $500 income tax credit for the creation of "green" jobs. Each taxpayer is allowed a credit for up to 350 new green jobs and may qualify for the Enterprise Zone Grant program if the job is located in an enterprise zone.

Also co-patroned by Peace, and included in the package, is House Bill 624 introduced by Del. Terry Kilgore (R-Gate City) which amends the Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit to reduce the number of qualified full-time jobs required to be created to 50. In enterprise zones or economically distressed areas, the base or threshold is lowered from 50 newly created jobs to 25. 

Del. Ben Cline (R-Amherst) introduced House Bill 861 to attract more of the Motion Picture Industry to the Commonwealth.  It provides refundable income tax credits to any motion picture production company with qualifying expenses of at least $250,000 with respect to film production in the Commonwealth. Total credits allowed for any biennium cannot exceed $10 million.  Delegate Peace joined Cline and Governor McDonnell in support of this measure. 

Finally, Del. Sam Nixon (R-Chesterfield) and Del. Chris Peace patroned House Bill 523 that grants an income tax exemption for any gain taxed as a capital gain for federal income tax purposes that is related to a qualified investment of a new technology and science start-up business.

Investment in tourism, small business, biotechnology, and Virginia's wine industry are at the forefront in the Economic Development Package passed on Sunday. Tourism, which returns five dollars to the Commonwealth for every one invested, will receive an increase in funding of $3.6 million in each of the next two years by allocating funds to the Virginia Tourism Corporation. 

Increased incentives for small businesses, which are responsible for 70% of the new jobs created in Virginia, were also part of the package. 

Amendments include proving $1.0 million to recapitalize the Virginia Small Business Authority's capital access fund, $1.0 million over the biennium to improve the business one-stop program making it easier to navigate the red-tape of licensing and permitting, and $6.5 million over the biennium to expand Virginia's oldest business incentive, the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, which provides company-specific training in grants to new and existing businesses of all sizes.

The biotechnology and sciences industry will receive an increase in funding to encourage home-grown bioscience companies to stay in Virginia and create more jobs, moving Virginia forward with investments in green, clean, and alternative technologies.  Included in the amendments is $3.0 million for the Center for Innovative Technology's (CIT) Gap Funds, which will underwrite critical first financing for new early-stage companies.

Virginia's wine industry has made Virginia the sixth largest wine-exporting state, increasing jobs and tourism throughout the Commonwealth.  Included in the Economic Development Package was House Bill 588, sponsored by Landes and co-sponsored by Del. Chris Peace, which appropriates funds from the current Wine Liter Tax to the Virginia Wine Promotion Fund, helping create jobs and attract tourists to Virginia.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The 97th District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Peace Joins House Republicans to Highlight Success of Legislative Agenda at Session Midpoint

Click to read press release

EDUCATION: 97th District Comparison of Population and Funding

Over the last 10 years, the General Assembly has increased the Commonwealth's funding for public education by almost 60% (58.9) – from $3.7 billion in FY 2000 up to $5.9 billion in FY 2010 (as adopted during the 2009 session). Furthermore, if one includes the $365.2 million federal stimulus funding budgeted in the 2009 session for FY 2010, the total funding for FY 2010 increased by almost 70% (68.7) over FY 2000. Over the last 10 years, student membership only increased by 7.2% . So, while funding increased by 60%-70%, the number of students increased by less than 10%. Clearly, the Commonwealth has invested significantly more than population growth and more than inflation when times were good. Remember, too, that prior to last year, public education was held harmless while other state agencies and services were reduced during several rounds of budget cuts .

While Governor Kaine's FY 2010 introduced budget (HB 29 for the current fiscal year that ends on June 20, 2010) for public education does include a decrease to last year's adopted budget, that proposed funding is still 51.9% higher than the FY 2000 funding.

For the next two-year budget (HB 30) that begins July 1, 2010 and ends June 30, 2012, the state's estimates indicate deeper declines in state revenues because of the lingering effects of the worst economic recession in over 70 years or since the Great Depression. That means that education simply can no longer be held harmless to balance the state budget without a job-killing tax increase.

Given that additional cuts to state spending were included in Governor Kaine's two-year budget AND even with the proposed reductions, it's worth noting that:

1. For FY 2011, K-12 spending of $5.7 billion is 53.4% higher than the FY 2000 level - while student membership is estimated to only increase by 8.1%.
2. For FY 2012, K-12 spending of $5.8 billion is 55.4% higher than the FY 2000 level - while student membership is estimated to increase by 9.0%.

However, in order to avoid tax increases to the already struggling taxpayers and working families of Virginia, the new biennial budget spending (to which amendments will be offered by the House and Senate on Sunday, February 21) will have to be reduced further and state agencies will realize additional decreases. However, keep in mind that because of the federal stimulus requirement for a 'maintenance of effort', the public education budget will be funded at least to the FY 2006 level in FY2011. In many jurisdictions in my district those levels approach 2008 levels.

The data contained in our spreadsheet spans "Total Student Population" from 2002 - 2003 to 2009 - 2010 as opposed to the 10 year span detailed in our statewide analysis.

Click for Comparison Spreadsheet

10th Amendment: Letter to VA Delegation to Congress

Click to read letter in support of 10th Amendment to Virginia's Congressional Delegation

Tenth Amendment Resolution Passes House

--The federal government is a creature of the states - not the other way around -- (Walter E. Williams January 27, 1995)

Central VA- On December 15, 1791 representatives cast the necessary vote to ratify the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution.  Today, Virginia Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) joined Delegate Clay Athey (R-Front Royal) and fellow legislators in support of House Joint Resolution 125.  HJR 125 passed the House of Delegates late last night by a vote of 76-20.

HJ 125 affirms those founding principles of Federalism guaranteed under the Tenth Amendment of the Constitution of the United States.  The resolution sets forth the principle that the Commonwealth of Virginia is sovereign and has authority to claim powers not specified or granted to the federal government.

Over the past few years, states around the country have passed resolutions claiming sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment and resolving to serve notice and demand to the federal government to cease and desist mandates that are beyond the scope of these constitutionally delegated powers.  Virginia, upon passage of this legislation, joins the movement that so clearly demonstrates the imbalance and growing concern that the federal government is increasing its dominance over their state policy affairs.

In his Sunday Richmond Times-Dispatch Commentary of February 22, 2009, Delegate Peace wrote: "[Even] case law expounded upon this fundamental principle. Printz v. United States held that the federal system limits the ability of the federal government to use state governments as an instrumentality of the national government. But this traditional notion of Federalism has devolved into "cooperative federalism," where Congress creates new state programs by affixing certain conditions to the receipt of those funds… and the ultimate danger is the erosion of the principles of Federalism whereby Virginia becomes, effectively, a ward of the federal super state."

In keeping with 10th Amendment principles, additional legislation supporting an individual's right and power to participate in the health care system recently passed.  House Bill 722, introduced by Del. Peace was incorporated into House Bill 10 patroned by Del. Marshall.  HB 10, by a vote of 72-26, passed the House.  HB 10 will prevent the federal government from mandating that Virginians enter into a contract with an insurance company against their will, and under penalty of fines and possibly jail time if they don't comply.

Similar to HB 10, HB 722 presents a declaration of rights for Virginians to elect insurance coverage by providing that a resident of the commonwealth shall not be required to obtain or maintain a policy of individual health insurance coverage.  This applies regardless of whether the person is eligible for health insurance coverage under any policy or program provided by or through his employer or a plan sponsored by the commonwealth or the federal government.  The measure also states that no resident shall be liable for any penalty, assessment, fee, or fine as a result of his failure to procure or obtain health insurance coverage.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Health Care Freedom Act Passes House

-- Measure Asserts individual's right and power to participate in health care system-- Central Virginia – Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) joined Delegate Bob Marshall (R-Prince William) and Delegate John O’Bannon (R-Henrico) to address the manner that Virginia's General Assembly can best go about resisting health insurance initiatives currently before Congress.

House Bill 722, introduced by Del. Peace was incorporated into House Bill 10 patroned by Del. Marshall.  HB 10, by a vote of 72-26, passed the House.  HB 10 will prevent the federal government from mandating that Virginians enter into a contract with an insurance company against their will, and under penalty of fines and possibly jail time if they don’t comply.

Similar to HB 10, HB 722 presents a declaration of rights for Virginians to elect insurance coverage by providing that a resident of the commonwealth shall not be required to obtain or maintain a policy of individual health insurance coverage.  This applies regardless of whether the person is eligible for health insurance coverage under any policy or program provided by or through his employer or a plan sponsored by the commonwealth or the federal government.  The measure also states that no resident shall be liable for any penalty, assessment, fee, or fine as a result of his failure to procure or obtain health insurance coverage.

Speaking to the bill, Delegate Peace stressed, “Pursuant to the 10^th Amendment, Congress’ only duty is to serve citizens under the express powers of the US Constitution.  Forcing citizens to purchase private health insurance violates the agreement between elected representatives and citizens.  As Lincoln asserted in his historical Gettysburg Address, “government is “of, by and for the people.”

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Property Tax Assessment Bill Passes House

-- Measure Protects Taxpayer in Real Property Tax Appeals – Central Virginia - A measure to change the burden of proof from the taxpayer to the assessor when a taxpayer appeals their real property assessment to a board of equalization or to a circuit court passed the House by a vote of 86-13. 

Upon implementation of this measure, the assessor would have the burden of proving that the property in question is valued at its fair market value or that the assessment is uniform in its application and is otherwise valid or legal.

Under current law, a property owner may appeal to a Board of Equalization or a circuit court seeking relief from an erroneous real property assessment.  In all such cases, the taxpayer has the burden of proving that the property in question is valued at more than its fair market value.

"I supported this measure because it will give residents greater protection from imperfect assessments in a very difficult time for valuing real property," stressed Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover).  "During these challenging economic times, when average working Virginians are struggling to make ends meet, there are those who want to raise taxes.  Working Virginians, young families and seniors on fixed incomes are especially hurting.  I cannot support government reaching further into the taxpayers' pockets."

While New Kent County residents have recently seen a 6.6 percent increase in their real estate property tax assessment, surrounding localities have seen a decline of up to 8 percent.  County residents that choose to avail themselves of an appeal may benefit from this new policy. 

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Measure to Review State Mandated Health Benefits Unanimously Supported

-- Evaluation of health insurance mandated benefits may prove to reduce costs for consumers---- Bill supported by the Virginia Association of Health Plans, National Federation of Independent Businesses and Virginia Hospital and Health Care Association --

Central Virginia - As health insurance reform is currently a kitchen table topic of discussion, Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) presented House Bill 726. This legislation calls for the Special Advisory Commission on Mandated Health Insurance Benefits to review mandated health insurance benefits to assess their social and financial impact and their medical efficacy. The bill requires the Commission to submit a schedule of evaluations to the standing committees having jurisdiction over health insurance matters.

Virginia's insurance laws require that most health insurance plans including Managed Care Health Insurance Plans (MCHIPs), provide certain benefits, known as mandated benefits, in each and every individual or group contract they offer in Virginia. A full list of Virginia mandated benefits may be found at

http://www.scc.virginia.gov/division/boi/webpages/boimandated.htm

Additionally, they must offer and make available to citizens, as an individual policyholder, or employers, if you have group coverage, the option to purchase certain benefits known as mandated offers of coverage. Mandates apply only to Virginia-issued contracts or policies. The number of mandated benefits required by law in Virginia placing requirements on the content of private health benefit plans has increased over the years.

Mandate benefits in Virginia range from statutes that require health plans to cover services by particular types of providers (e.g., chiropractors, optometrists) or requirements to cover specific diagnostic or treatment services (e.g., mammography, inpatient hospital care following delivery). While individual mandates are often very popular since they are intended to provide specific populations with greater access to particular services, there is a cumulative price tag associated with ensuring such access.

Speaking to the bill, Delegate Christopher K. Peace maintained, "Mandating benefits can cause health insurance premiums to rise substantially. As a result, the prospect of reducing the number of mandated benefits by investigating the medical effectiveness and examining the cost-impact of mandates may prove to lower premiums for individuals and businesses."

By the late 1960s, state legislatures had passed only a handful of mandated benefits; today, the Council for Affordable Health Insurance (CAHI) has identified 2,133 mandated benefits and providers and found that a state with 30-40 mandates can boost total policy costs between 20% and 45%.

“Mandates increase the cost of healthcare, making it less affordable; Virginia ranks 3rd in the nation in the number of mandated benefits. Small business owners want to and do offer healthcare plans that cover a wide variety of benefits. Providing these types of benefits is important to the productivity of our members and their employees,” states Julia Hammond, State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Civil War Preservation Bill Advances

Del. Peace says preservation is consistent with the public interest in education, recreation and heritage tourism

Central Virginia – House Bill 717, introduced by Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R), establishes in the Code of Virginia a vehicle to pursue Civil War site preservation in the Commonwealth in advance of the state’s 2011 Sesquicentennial commemoration.

"Virginia has a rich history and heritage. More especially, our district is home to the Battle of Cold Harbor, which is one of the most endangered sites in America.  The state should work with individuals and non-profits to see that our posterity is preserved for future generations. We must work and find opportunities for preserving and interpreting these valuable resources," stated Peace. 

The Virginia Civil War Site Preservation Fund has existed only in budget language since it was created with strong bipartisan support in 2007. The bill would retain oversight and grant award authority with the Director of the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Since its inception, with over $5 million 2,000 acres of historic battlefields have been protected in perpetuity. 

Peace’s measure creates the Fund as a non-reverting fund into which state general funds will be added only if specifically appropriated by the General Assembly.  No state funds are being requested at this time; rather, the primary sources of the funds are anticipated to be from grants or awards from the United States Government and from public and private gifts and bequests.  The Fund will make awards to private non-profit organizations or to state or local government agencies.

Additionally, funds will be used solely for the fee simple purchase or purchase of protective interests in those Virginia Civil War battlefield historic sites recognized by the National Park Service's American Battlefield Protection Program.

"Virginia is poised to capitalize on enhanced revenue generated through these protection measures. The civil war tourist spends more and stays longer according to studies. Tourism is beneficial to communities across the Commonwealth,” said Peace. In Virginia, tourism marketing historically returns $5 in tax revenue to state and local coffers for every dollar spent in the same fiscal year.  That $5 generally breaks down into $2.88 in state tax revenues and $2.12 in local tax revenues. 

Additionally the travel industry in Virginia in 2008 generated $18.7 billion in visitor spending; supported 210,000 jobs; provided $1.2 billion in state and local taxes for Virginia's communities and $4.3 billion in payroll and salaries for local, state and federal economies.

This bill was requested by the Civil War Preservation Trust (CWPT) and co-patroned by Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford).  According to CWPT website, the Civil War Preservation Trust is America's largest non-profit organization (501-C3) devoted to the preservation of our nation's endangered Civil War battlefields.  The Trust also promotes educational programs and heritage tourism initiatives to inform the public of the war's history and the fundamental conflicts that sparked it.  For more information visit: http://www.civilwar.org/aboutus. 

"Virginia has the enviable position of being where much of the history of our nation was made. With that comes the responsibility to all Americans that we preserve those sites,” stated Waite Rawls, Executive Director of the Museum of the Confederacy.

HB 717 passed the House of Delegates by a vote of 99-0 today.  This bill has a companion measure carried by Sen. Ed Houck (D-Spotsylvania). Sen. Houck’s district is home to the Battle of Chancellorsville among others.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Resolution in Support of Workplace Readiness Skills Passes Unanimously

-- Del. Peace sponsored bill to highlight Career and Technical Education Programs--

Central Virginia – Passing the House unanimously, House Resolution 101 is a measure which requests the Board of Education approve the revised Virginia's Workplace Readiness Skills and test.  Introduced by Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville), this resolution emerged from the Commission on Youth’s Study of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Virginia and was unanimously adopted by the Commission.  This resolution was requested by the members of Commission on Youth’s Advisory Group for the Study of CTE, comprised of representatives from business and industry, small business owners, community colleges, local government, local school officials, and parents.  The measure is supported by the Virginia Association for CTE, the Virginia Manufacturers Association, and the Alliance for Construction Excellence.

In 2008, to ensure that Virginia’s Workplace Readiness Skills were up-to-date with today's workplace, the Department of Education began the process of updating the list of workplace readiness skills.  The skills list is being refined and expanded from 13 to 21 skills, and will be fully implemented as part of the CTE curriculum in the fall of 2010.

In order to verify student mastery of Virginia’s Workplace Readiness Skills, Virginia CTE uses the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Workplace Readiness Skills (WRS) exam.  This exam must be accompanied by one of three Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3) tests to measure technological competence.  These exams have been approved by the Board of Education so that students may earn verified credit.

Speaking to the resolution, Delegate Peace asserts, “Training of skilled workers that will become members of our future work force is essential to the continued economic development of our communities.  Career and Technical Education adds to the tapestry of education in Virginia.  Education is more than just K-12 and higher education.  CTE helps students, workers and lifelong learners fulfill their potential through vocational education opportunities.”

In 2009, the Commission on Youth conducted a study of Virginia’s Career and Technical Education programs to gain information on the Commonwealth’s shifting educational needs.  The Commission convened eight Regional Roundtables.  A major finding from these Roundtables was that employers desire entry-level workers who come ready to work.  Virginia’s Workplace Readiness Skills incorporate those entry level skills most desired by employers including basic reading and writing, a strong work ethic and positive attitude, communications, teamwork and self-presentation.   “Virginia's Workplace Readiness Skills bridge the gap so that students possess the crucial skills necessary to be successful in the workplace while meeting the demands and needs of the business community,” stated Amy Atkinson, Executive Director of the Commission on Youth.  

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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House Passes Offshore Energy Measure

-- Del. Peace co-patrons legislation allowing for oil exploration 50 miles off shore --

Central Virginia - In a recent letter to Ken Salazar, U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) urged his support for the development of energy resources off the coast of Virginia.  A study by ICF International estimates that developing Virginia's offshore energy resources could result in nearly $19.5 billion in federal, state, and local government revenues. 

Peace reiterated his support of these initiatives by co-patroning House Bill 787, a measure which states the policy of the Commonwealth to support oil and natural gas exploration, development, and production 50 miles or more off Virginia's coast.  Currently, the policy is limited to supporting exploration for natural gas resources 50 miles or more offshore.  The legislation passed the House by a vote of 69-28 on February 3. 

"In these challenging fiscal times, the economic impact of the Lease Sale cannot be downplayed.   Delaying the opportunity for Virginians to benefit from the development of oil and natural gas resources would subsequently delay the opportunity to bring critical jobs to Virginia, and threaten the potential for future revenue sources," commented Peace. "This policy is strongly supported by Governor Bob McDonnell."

In September of 2008, Congress lifted the federal moratoria on offshore exploration.  This action brings with it tremendous opportunity for our Commonwealth to begin investments that will reduce reliance on foreign sources of energy, while also helping to strengthen our economy. 

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Title, Mortgage & Power of Attorney Reform Measures Pass House of Delegates

Central Virginia- Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R) announces passage of three legal reform measures: House Bills 714, 715, 719. By request of the Virginia Land Title Association, House Bill 715 passed by a vote of 98-0 and provides for title insurance companies to exercise the authority that settlement agents currently possess to release the lien of a deed of trust and authorizes a settlement agent to release a deed of trust lien upon written confirmation from the lien creditor that such obligation has a zero balance. In the instance that a lender and settlement agent each have gone out of business during the life a loan, this measure gives the title company the authority to release the lien upon receipt of evidence that all requirements of the loan have been met and that the loan is paid in full.  Without this legislation, property owners must either pay an attorney to have the lien judicially released, or file a claim on their policy of title insurance.  The bill will allow title issues to be resolved with less time and money passing a savings along to the individual consumer. 

Another measure, House Bill 714 passed by a vote of 98-0.  This bill clarifies that, in the event of a foreclosure sale, which are more frequent in this economy, a trustee shall cause the proceeds of the sale to be applied to the payment of taxes on the property.  Simply put, a Trustee's Deed is a deed of foreclosure; a Trustee's Deed is prepared after the foreclosure sale of a property and recorded in the land records of the county in which the property is located.  The Trustee's Deed transfers the property to the buyer who purchased the foreclosed property.  Peace’s bill requires that proceeds of the sale of a foreclosed property go toward paying the taxes.

Also passing by a vote of 98-0 this week was House Bill 719, a measure which establishes in the Code of Virginia a Uniform Durable Power of Attorney that was adopted by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws in 2006.  Powers of attorney will be dealt with in a uniform manner and portability and acceptance of powers of attorney will be improved as well as the protection incapacitated principals.   The original Uniform Durable Power of Attorney Act, last amended in 1987, was at one time followed by all but a few jurisdictions.  Despite initial uniformity, the study found that a majority of states had enacted non-uniform provisions to deal with specific matters upon which the Uniform Durable Power of Attorney Act is silent.

These legal reform measures will be heard in the Senate of Virginia.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties & all of New Kent County.

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Health Care Transparency Bill Passes House of Delegates

-- Delegate Peace measure calls for health care provider data transparency to be readily available to consumers--

--Making better informed health care decisions can reduce costs--

Central Virginia- Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville) announces passage of House Bill 710 by a vote of 97- 0.  This health care transparency act aims to foster competition among health care providers and increase consumer choice with regard to their health services.

Speaking about the bill Delegate Peace stated, "By ranking health care providers and making this important consumer information available to the public, patients can make an informed health care decision based upon a provider's record of treatment outcomes.  Improving patient care could result in reduced healthcare costs."

The bill specifically requires the Department of Health to take steps to increase public awareness of the data and valuable information available from Virginia Health Information (VHI), a nonprofit organization charged with compiling, storing, analyzing, and evaluating data submitted by health care providers. VHI has developed a system of ranking or grading health care providers and making such rankings available to the public. Consumers can use the data and information when making decisions about health care providers and services.

The Department will prominently display a link to the VHI website at http://www.vhi.org/, information about accessing and searching data available through the nonprofit organization's website, and information about how consumers can use data available through the nonprofit organization's website to evaluate and make decisions about health care providers and services on the Department's website.

Virginia Health Information began its efforts in 1993 with passage of the Patient Level Database System Act. Virginia Health Information is the organization recognized as the source for health data reporting in Virginia. VHI is a one-stop shop for information on: Assisted Living Facilities; Continuing Care Retirement Communities; HMOs; Home Care Providers; Hospitals; Nursing Facilities; Physicians; And other providers. 

VHI works with private organizations and public bodies to use health data to meet the varied needs of the citizens of the Commonwealth. Whether it is private programs to recognize and reward hospitals improving patient safety or helping senior citizens find needed care, VHI is working with groups to cost-effectively use health data to improve care and save lives.  Delegate Peace recommends contacting VHI for more information toll free 1-877-VHI-INFO (844-4636) or at their website http://www.vhi.org/.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Proposal to Reduce Number of Children in Foster Care Passes House

-- Peace bill promotes healthy families and cost savings –

Central Virginia- A measure, introduced by Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville), to require the Governor, working with the Department of Social Services and other appropriate executive branch agencies, to develop a plan to reduce the number of children in foster care by 25 percent by 2020 passed the House of Delegates today by a vote of 91-6.  The plan will increase the number of safe and permanent placements of children with families and promote healthy families and future positive outcomes for children in foster care.  The plan shall provide for the placement of children currently in foster care or children entering foster care in safe, appropriate, permanent living arrangements.

"Safely reducing the number of children in foster care by 25 percent by the year 2020 will produce a cost savings to taxpayers by employing strategies and practices that strengthen families and improve our child welfare system.  By not having the government raise our children, we will also see an increase in the well-being and self-sufficiency of Virginia's children.  Ensuring they have access to a quality education, employment and mental health services will also boost success stories," emphasized Delegate Peace. 

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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E-Textbook Bill Passes House Unanimously

-- Peace bill allows purchasing of Electronic Textbooks -- Central Virginia- Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville) is delighted to announce that his bill HB 709 was passed unanimously in the House, with a vote of 98-0. The bill will now be heard in the Senate.

Two years ago, Peace successfully passed a measure to streamline the process used by local school divisions to purchase textbooks. Working with the Secretary of Education and the state Department of Education, Peace introduced this legislation which will require publishers of Board approved textbooks in grades 6-12 to offer prices for hardcopy textbooks, hardcopy textbooks with electronic files and electronic textbooks that are separate and apart from hardcopy versions.

Delegate Peace commented, “This legislation ensures that any school division contracts or purchase orders related to Board-approved textbooks allow for the sole purchase of electronic textbooks. By leveraging the authority to purchase only electronic textbooks local school districts will have more flexibility, resulting in a cost savings.”

A number of states are encouraging the proliferation of digital textbooks; including California which recently passed legislation to require that all textbooks used at private and public institutions of higher education make electronic versions of textbooks available for students.

“With the onset of e-book and digital media devices such as Kindle and iPad, we are seeing changes in the tools used by students to learn and teachers to teach. Through the use of digital media, students, parents and school divisions can save money, while embracing new technologies students are focused on using,” continued Peace. “McGraw-Hill has already stated they will make textbooks available for iPad.”

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Peace Bills included in Conservative Caucus Agenda

House Bills 720 and 722 provide state-based solutions to health care.Legislation would introduce greater competition and flexibility as well as provide freedom from federal health care mandates.

Central, VA - The Virginia Conservative Caucus, a group comprised of conservative legislators from the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates, held a press conference Thursday afternoon to announce their legislative agenda for the 2010 General Assembly session. Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville) joined Caucus co-chairs Delegate Ben Cline and Senator Mark Obenshain to outline their position on priority legislation introduced this session. The agenda, which currently includes 53 pieces of legislation, focuses on three main goals: "Encouraging Job Creation, Progress & Opportunity", "Strengthening & Protecting Families", and "Limiting Government & Defending Freedom."

The agenda includes two of Del. Peace's bills relating to health care insurance, free market enterprise, and the protection of consumer choice. House Bill 720 is a measure to authorize health insurers licensed to sell health benefits plans in any other state to sell health benefits plans to residents of the Commonwealth if the out of state health insurer offers the same plans in its state, is in compliance with the laws of that state, obtains a certificate of authority to do business in the Commonwealth, and participates in the Virginia Life, Accident and Sickness Insurance Guaranty Association. This measure promotes the consumer's freedom of choice in health care providers and encourages competition in the health care market resulting in greater efficiency and lower costs.

House Bill 722 provides that a resident of the Commonwealth shall not be required to obtain or maintain a policy of individual health insurance coverage. This would apply regardless of whether the person is eligible for health insurance coverage under any policy or program provided by or through his employer or a plan sponsored by the Commonwealth or the federal government. Passage of this bill would prohibit individual mandates that penalize citizens and businesses for failing to purchase health insurance, and would protect citizens' basic Constitutional rights.

"With Congress considering legislation to require individuals to buy health insurance, my bills would preserve the citizens' right to make their own choices in relation to health care insurance," asserted Peace. "Improving the quality and cost of health care, fostering competition among health care providers, and increasing consumer choice will serve to lower costs and increase positive outcomes for patients."

Legislation included in the Caucus' agenda ranges from economic legislation that lowers taxes for businesses that create jobs, to criminal and social legislation that provides harsher penalties for crimes against children and stronger protections for the life of a newborn. It also includes opposition to tax increases, such as a measure to reinstate the Death Tax, and legislation that attempts to overturn the 2007 marriage amendment to Virginia's Constitution.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The 97th District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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Delegate Peace Introduces Legislation to Honor Meadow Farm's Secretariat

Central Virginia- Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville) is delighted to announce House Resolution 13 to celebrate the 40th birthday of Secretariat. March 30, 2010, marks the 40th birthday of Secretariat, the winner of the 1973 Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and the state's most famous racehorse. Secretariat, as a three-year old, became the first horse in 25 years to win the Triple Crown in 1973, sweeping the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes and capturing the imagination of race fans worldwide.

Peace stated, "I am proud to represent a District that is rich in Virginia horse history and equine heritage. From Meadow Farm in Caroline County, the birthplace of Secretariat, to New Kent County, home of Colonial Downs which annually hosts thoroughbred and harness horse racing. It is only fitting to honor the 40th birthday of Secretariat. The horse is in a very select class; only eleven horses have ever won the elusive Triple Crown."

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County.

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PEACE’S SIGHT PRESERVATION BILL MOVES FORWARD

Appreciating that the gift of sight is precious, State Delegate Chris Peace introduced legislation to protect and advance the delivery of vision care services in Virginia. Local area doctors of optometry brought to the Delegate’s attention concern that illegal sale of cosmetic contact lenses by beauty parlors and flea markets were causing sight threatening eye infections, corneal abrasions, and corneal ulcers. The unsuspecting consumer wanting to change the color of their eyes did not realize that even cosmetic contacts require an eye doctor to determine the proper fit and type of contact lens, in addition to providing training on proper contact lens care. Cosmetic contact lenses sold by untrained professionals has caused an increase in these sight threatening problems. Delegate Peace’s sight preservation bill also includes a provision so that doctors of optometry may provide patients with the newest technological advancements in treating eye disease. As an example, in the near future, it is expected that the FDA will approve a contact lens which includes medication in the special type of contact lenses to treat ocular allergies.

The legislation recently passed the Virginia House of Delegates by a vote of 99-0, and is now awaiting consideration by the State Senate.

Peace Housing Measure Passes House

--Livable Home Tax Credit Bill to go to Senate----First "Help Housing Now" Coalition Bill Moves Forward--

Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville) announces the unanimous passage his "Livable Home" tax credit measure by the House of Delegates. The bill restructures a well established tax credit to require that the taxpayer retrofit a greater percentage of the home to qualify for the credit. Simultaneously, the individual tax credit limit moves from $500 to $2,000. This more attractive incentive would begin on or after January 1, 2010 and goes to homeowners who make accessibility improvements to their residences or purchase new homes. The credit itself was established in 1998. The program is capped at $1 Million annually.

Under the current program, if the owner spends $3,000 on accessibility improvements, they would qualify for a maximum credit of $500. Under these revisions, the owner could receive a credit of $2,000. Since many owners who need to make accessibility improvements have limited incomes, the increase in these limits should encourage the elderly on fixed incomes or the more disabled persons greater access to the program.

"In this time of economic challenge leaders must come together to put Virginia First in bipartisan ways, working together for solutions and in this case to help citizens make their homes or purchase of new homes more accessible," stated Peace.

Livable Home Tax Credit (formally Home Accessibility Credit) is being administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Applications are to be filed with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) by February 28 of the year following the year in which the purchase or retro-fitting was completed. For additional information please contact Kathy Robertson at 804-225-3129.

The livable home tax credit measure is a part of the Help Housing Now package introduced by Peace and a bi-partisan coalition of fellow legislators and representatives of the housing industry- both for-profits and non-profits the day before the opening session of the 2009 General Assembly session.