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Health Care Transparency Bill Passes House of Delegates

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-- 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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Governor McDonnell’s Proposal to Increase Speed Limit to 70MPH Passes House and Senate

--Measure Receives Broad Bipartisan Support in Both Chambers--

RICHMOND- Governor Bob McDonnell’s proposal to increase the speed limit in Virginia to 70mph in rural and less populated areas was approved today by both chambers of the General Assembly. The Governor’s measure received broad bipartisan support in both the House and Senate.  In the House, Delegate Bill Carrico (R-Galax) carried the bill.  Senator Steve Newman (R-Lynchburg) patroned the bill in the Senate. Both bills are identical. Each bill must still be voted on by the other house prior to being sent to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

Speaking about today’s vote, Governor McDonnell remarked, “I thank Delegate Bill Carrico and Senator Steve Newman for their successful advocacy of this important proposal to speed up traffic in rural and less populated sections of Virginia. As today’s votes in both chambers demonstrate, there is broad bipartisan support for this common-sense idea. 32 states already have 70mph speed limits, and 13 allow motorists to drive 75mph. This slight increase in our speed limit will be safe for motorists and help get Virginians to their destinations a little quicker each day. This is an important early step towards our common goal of improving transportation in the Commonwealth.”

Senator Steve Newman noted, “Increasing the speed limit to 70mph on Virginia’s highways will help commuters get to their destinations more quickly and safely.  Virginia now joins 33 other states that have increased their speed limits above 65mph and I applaud Governor McDonnell’s leadership on this issue.”

Delegate Bill Carrico added, “I’m pleased that the bill to increase the speed limit on rural stretches of highway to 70mph has passed both houses of the General Assembly.  This is a common-sense reform that will make sure highway traffic moves at a more uniform speed on Virginia’s highways.”

 HB 856 can be read here:

http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?ses=101&typ=bil&val=HB856

SB 537 can be read here:

http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?ses=101&typ=bil&val=SB537

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Proposal to Reduce Number of Children in Foster Care Passes House

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-- 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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Governor Bob McDonnell Reiterates Strong Opposition to

Guantanamo Bay Detainees Being Tried or Held in Commonwealth

Comments Follow Statements of New York City Leaders Opposed to Hosting Trial of Khalid Sheikh Mohammad

RICHMOND- Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell today reiterated his longstanding opposition to the detention or trial of any Guantanamo Bay detainee, including Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, taking place in the Commonwealth of Virginia. He also noted his agreement with Congressional leaders from both parties that all Guantanamo Bay detainees be put before military tribunals, rather than civilian courts as outlined by the United States Department of Justice. Virginia has several locations, including Alexandria and Newport News, that have been suggested as possible civilian trial locations.

Speaking about the issue Governor McDonnell noted, “Officials in New York City have made clear they do not want a disruptive civilian trial of 9-11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammad taking place in that city. As they are appropriately acting in the best interests of their citizens, today I am doing the same for the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Commonwealth has been the site of previous terrorism trials, most recently the 2006 trial of Zacarias Moussaoui at the federal courthouse in Alexandria. That trial led to ongoing significant disruptions and potential threats for the citizens of that Virginia community, and local leaders have made clear they do not want to host such a trial again.  I strongly oppose any Guantanamo Bay detainees being either held or tried in Virginia.”

Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on Black History Month

 

RICHMOND- Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement today regarding the beginning of Black History Month in Virginia. “Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity for Virginians to learn more about the rich and diverse history of our Commonwealth.  In every region of the state there are museums, homes and exhibits that tell the story of African-Americans in Virginia and their immense contributions to both our Commonwealth and our country.

In Richmond, Virginians can visit the home of Maggie Walker, the first female bank president in the United States. In Franklin County sits the birthplace of legendary educator Booker T. Washington.  Washington would go on to attend Hampton University, founded in 1868 and today one of the nation’s leading historically black universities. On that campus visitors can still see the ‘Emancipation Oak’ under which the first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation took place in 1863. The Joseph Jenkins Roberts Monument in Petersburg commemorates the first President of Liberia. Born in Norfolk, Roberts was raised in the city. In Farmville, Virginians can tour the Robert Russa Moton Museum, site of Barbara Johns famous walkout in 1951 which became a key part of Brown v. Board of Education three years later.

As we begin this month, I encourage all citizens to learn more about black history in Virginia. There is no better state in which to celebrate Black History Month.”

For a list of historical sites/museums/tours commemorating black history in Virginia, please visit: http://www.virginia.org/site/features.asp?FeatureID=259

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Governor Bob McDonnell Announces $2 Million Public/Private Initiative to Provide Mental Health Treatment to Uninsured

RICHMOND- Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell today announced the launch of a $2 million public/private initiative to provide mental health treatment through the Virginia Health Care Foundation.  Today’s announcement is the result of a $2 million challenge grant McDonnell made one year ago while Attorney General of Virginia.  The launch of the VHCF’s program, “A New Lease on Life,” will provide mental health care to uninsured Virginians all across the Commonwealth.               As Attorney General, McDonnell issued a $1 million challenge grant to the Virginia Health Care Foundation.  The money was a result of two successful multi-state settlements in 2008 secured by Virginia’s Attorney Generals office, and Attorneys General from other states, with two national pharmacy benefits management companies.  Money from this challenge grant will underwrite nine grants throughout the state that will enable health safety net providers to treat uninsured Virginians suffering from basic mental health conditions, and provide primary health care for seriously mentally ill Virginians who are uninsured. 

 More information about last year’s challenge can be found here: http://www.vaag.com/PRESS_RELEASES/NewsArchive/021809_Challenge_Grant.html

             Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McDonnell noted, “It is remarkable that in these tough economic times the Virginia Health Care Foundation was able to rise to the challenge and raise $1 million to fund a critical program.  With unemployment up and more people without health insurance, we must turn to public/private programs like ‘A New Lease on Life’ to provide critical health services to uninsured Virginians. Mental illness is treatable, but too many people go without care.  The pilot programs being launched today will help to close the treatment gap and provide much needed help to people all across the Commonwealth.”

             Gil Minor, chairman of the Virginia Health Care Foundation’s Fund Development Committee, remarked, “We conceived this challenge grant during better economic times, yet it was approved in the midst of the steep economic decline that we have all experienced.   Although we knew that it would be very difficult to raise $1 million, we pressed on. The recession and its devastating effects have created an even greater need for services to treat serious depression and anxiety disorders in the uninsured.   We are very grateful to the many companies, individuals and foundations which stepped up to help us meet this challenge.”

For more information about the Virginia Health Care Foundation’s Challenge Grant, please visit: http://www.vhcf.org/about/MentalHealth.php.

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Constitutional Officers Provide Valuable Service to Community

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Del. Peace Sponsors House Bill 713 to Protect ConsumersPeace Budget Amendment asks Treasurers to perform in-state collections saving Virginia thousands House Bill 712 filed at the request of the Virginia Sheriff's Association would allow for smaller jurisdictions like New Kent to give sworn officers overtime compensation

Central Virginia - Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R) recognizes the service provided by Constitutional Officers, including but not limited to the Sheriffs, Treasurers and Commissioners of Revenue, to residents of the 97th District. Thanks to their hard work the people of the District's 7 counties are safe and governments are accountable. From even before his first day in elected office, Peace has voiced his support for the system of checks and balances provided by these public servants and has not withdrawn from that position even at this difficult time.

Everyone knows that delivering a balanced budget this year will be difficult and yet it is the charge of legislators to keep. The former Governor exponentially added to budget difficulties by presenting a proposal with latent defects, notably an income tax increase which was unpalatable to most and defeated in the early weeks of session 97-0. The resulting effect of the Kaine plan laid at the doorstep of the incoming assembly is a severely imbalanced budget.

Peace states, "Governor McDonnell and legislative leadership already indicated that new tax proposals are a nonstarter while we recover from the Great Recession. Voters feel the same way. Unfortunately, by focusing on on-going reductions and leaving Car Tax relief as is, the legislature will need to find another $1.9 B in on-going spending reductions and right sizing government in addition to the $1.5 B that the Kaine budget proposes." Kaine also suggested eliminating support for the state's constitutional officers.”

With the support of the Commissioners of the Revenue statewide association, Delegate Peace introduced HB 713, a consumer protection measure which requires for each locality that imposes the Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL) tax to verify that every contractor and sub-contractor seeking a local business license has satisfied the requirements and obtained the applicable state license. The commissioner shall not issue a local business license if the applicant does not show proof of the needed state license. Passage of this bill would further protect the health, safety and welfare of the public by assuring qualified individuals and businesses are licensed for the service they are providing and serve to enforce standards of professional conduct for professions and occupations.

Peace likewise submitted budget language on behalf of the Treasurers Association that will improve efficiencies for local tax collection, therefore keeping more dollars in localities and not out of-state. Instead of the State Tax Department paying up to 35% commissions for the assistance of private tax collectors located out of Virginia, local governmental treasurers would use their collection tools and experience to assist the Commonwealth. Treasurers believe they can significantly improve collections for the Commonwealth while also generating revenue for their localities through these commissions.

According to various state agencies and higher education institutions, House Bill 712 which removes the restriction that the overtime compensation rate only applies to law-enforcement agencies of 100 or more, is not expected to have a fiscal impact, since the Compensation Board does not pay or reimburse for overtime, and does not reimburse for any accumulated leave time, a fiscal impact is not expected.

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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E-Textbook Bill Passes House Unanimously

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-- 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

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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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Peace Announces Committee Assignments

Central, VA - House Speaker William J. Howell, (R-Stafford), named Del. Christopher K. Peace, (R-Mechanicsville) to four committees in the Virginia House of Delegates including Finance, Courts of Justice, Health, Welfare, and Institutions (HWI), and General Laws. The General Laws committee is responsible for a wide range of issues. The committee considers matters concerning alcohol beverage sales and licensing, gaming, and housing. It also deals with Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Public Access Related Bills. Issues dealing with professions, occupations, the administrative process, and Veterans Affairs also fall under the purview of this Committee

Peace’s other appointments include the Courts of Justice committee, which addresses changes to the criminal code as well as the civil laws including real estate, adoption, custody and support among other items. It is also primarily responsible for certifying judges. Courts of Justice considers more legislation than the other House committees combined. HWI focuses on hospital and health care issues along with scope of practice and hot-button social issues. The Finance committee is the revenue generating arm of the House “money” committees. All tax legislation passes through Finance.

In addition to these assignments, Del. Kirk Cox (R- Colonial Heights) who is the Majority Whip re-appointed Peace to serve as a Deputy Whip. A whip’s task is to work with members of the majority party ascertain their individual positions on important issues and make sure that they not only attend important meetings but vote accordingly.

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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Hanover Students Chosen to Serve as House Pages

Delegate Peace and Morgan Brown Ben Holder and Delegate Peace

Central VA- Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Mechanicsville) today welcomes Ben Holder and Morgan Brown to service as Pages in the Virginia House of Delegates during the 2010 General Assembly session.

Ben Holder,13, is a 7th grader at Oak Knoll Middle School. Ben enjoys studying language arts.

Being the oldest of three siblings, he is setting a great example as a role model with the leadership responsibilities that he is acquiring as a Page. He applies his “never give up” attitude to his leadership qualities. In his free time, Ben likes to play the electric guitar, skateboarding, and playing on his school’s soccer team.

Morgan Brown, 13, is a 7th grader at Stonewall Jackson Middle School. Morgan’s favorite class is band, in which he plays the clarinet. He is the eldest of three siblings. Morgan is a very hard worker and is dedicated to the tasks to which he is assigned. In his words “keep trying until its done.” stated Morgan.

As for being chosen to represent the 97th District, Ben and Morgan mentioned that they will miss their family and friends, but they are honored and excited to be a part of the 2010 General Assembly Session.

“The Page program will allow Ben and Morgan to mature their social and leadership skills, which they can take back to their classrooms and families.” said 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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Delegate Peace Introduces Legislation to Honor Meadow Farm's Secretariat

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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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