House of Delegate Leaders Peace and Lingamfelter join to form the Energy Caucus

Caucus will focus on the discussion of energy independence and economic security Central Virginia- Delegates Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) and L. Scott Lingamfelter (R-Prince William) joined forces to organize the first ever, “Energy Independence and Economic Security Caucus.” The Delegates believe that it is time to take a leadership role to ensure that we are focused on achieving energy independence which is a fundamental element of improved job creation, and greater economic and national security.

The Energy Independence and Economic Security Caucus will facilitate educational forums to encourage dialogue between legislators and stakeholders on the importance of energy and the impact it has upon our state’s economy and our nation’s security. Furthermore, it will help expand the legislators’ base of knowledge concerning energy sources that efficiently and economically benefit the Commonwealth. Lawmakers understand the direct relationship energy has upon making the Commonwealth a leader in energy production and in helping to create energy independence for the United States.

Speaking about the Caucus, Peace asserted, “Increased education makes legislators voting ready. I am looking forward to hearing from the energy sector presenters and working with my colleagues to address the economic and energy needs of the State.”

To that end, the Energy Independence and Economic Security Caucus will receive reliable briefings on key current and emerging energy issues. These briefings will be rooted in sound economic policy and scientific research. Types of energy sources that will be discussed include, but are not limited to utilities, renewables, off-shore exploration, coal, and natural gas among others.

“The mission of this Caucus is to share information to help legislators and interested parties understand energy challenges facing the Commonwealth and our Nation. Discussion will allow energy based information to drive legislator’s decisions,” stated Lingamfelter.

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

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Governor McDonnell Announces Settlement Agreement With the U.S. Department of Justice on Virginia’s Intellectual and Developmental Disability System

~Settlement Advances Existing Efforts to Transition to Community-Based Care and Concludes Investigation Dating Back to 2008~

RICHMOND — Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that a settlement agreement has been reached between the Commonwealth and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding Virginia’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the 1999 Supreme Court decision in the Olmstead case.

The investigation, which began in 2008 at the state-run Central Virginia Training Center in Lynchburg, was expanded in 2010 to cover Virginia’s comprehensive system of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including all five state training centers and community-based services. DOJ issued a findings letter to Governor McDonnell in February 2011 that concluded Virginia is not providing services in the most integrated and appropriate setting, not developing a sufficient quantity community services, and that Virginia has a flawed discharge process at training centers. Virginia then began good-faith negotiations to reach a settlement agreement with DOJ while not subjecting the Commonwealth to a costly and lengthy legal battle.

“The settlement agreement reflects Virginia’s long-term goal of improving treatment for intellectually and developmentally disabled Virginians,” said Governor McDonnell. “For decades we have said we ought to move to a community-based system for individuals with developmental disabilities and reduce our dependence on state-run training centers, the most costly and restrictive form of services available. In fact, when I was a delegate, I patroned legislation to help set the policy to ensure Virginia was providing the most compassionate, least-restrictive, community-based care for these individuals to ensure their highest possible quality of life. While we have made progress, and would have continued to make progress without this agreement, this agreement accelerates those efforts in a fiscally responsible and strategic manner. This agreement will ultimately provide the necessary services so more individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live successfully in their home communities and it will lead to a more effective use of public funds.”

In addition, Virginia is required to provide a plan to the Chairmen of the House of Delegates Appropriations and Senate Finance Committees within one year of the agreement to cease residential operations at four of Virginia’s training centers. This is consistent with Virginia’s longstanding policy of transitioning individuals from an institutional model of care to a community-based system to meet the needs of the population served by the training centers. The population of the training centers has declined from 6,000 individuals to approximately 1,000 individuals. Virginia’s latest projections show there will be fewer than 1,000 residents in training centers by March 31, 2012, with the census dropping to less than 600 by 2015. The continued operation of residential services at current levels is fiscally impractical due to the significant and ongoing decline in population.

Major highlights include:

Expanding Community-Based Services

· Adds 4,170 new Intellectual Disability (ID) waiver slots over 10 years to transition individuals currently living in training centers to community services and to provide for continued growth of slots for individuals in the community who are on the waiting list for waiver slots

Supporting Quality Community-Based Services

· Strengthens quality and risk management systems for community services

· Expands the role of licensing specialists and the responsibilities of case management services

Transitioning from Training Centers

· Helps guide and support individuals moving from training centers to new homes by creating teams to facilitate communication and planning with individuals and families, and to resolve any problems delaying discharges

· Virginia is required to provide a plan to cease residential operations at four of Virginia’s training centers. Plans have been developed and include timeframes for training center closures as follows: Southside Virginia Training Center in Petersburg (to close by June 30, 2014), Northern Virginia Training Center in Fairfax (by June 30, 2015), Southwestern Virginia Training Center in Hillsville (by June 30, 2018), and Central Virginia Training Center in Lynchburg (by June 30, 2020). Southeastern Virginia Training Center in Chesapeake will continue to downsize to 75 beds.

Secretary of Health and Human Resources Bill Hazel said, “Throughout negotiations, we took painstaking efforts to ensure the final result would be the best possible outcome for Virginians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and that it would be fiscally responsible. I believe we’ve achieved both objectives. Our focus now turns to working closely with individuals in training centers and their families to help them choose the best community setting that meets their unique needs and preferences, and to ensure safe, successful transitions to their new homes. Meanwhile, we will be developing new services and improving oversight in communities statewide. It will be challenging, but our goal is to close training centers safely while simultaneously adding community waiver slots so we are steadily reducing the waiver waiting list.”

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), which operates the training centers, will also be maximizing options for training center staff. There are approximately 3,050 employees at the four training centers that will close between 2014 and 2020. DBHDS will provide information and explain options, answer questions and help employees find positions at other DBHDS facilities, other state agencies or community-based services wherever possible.

“We want to help training center staff as they determine their next steps,” said Secretary Hazel. “Training center staff are among the most qualified to fill the positions that will be needed when more community homes and programs open to support training center closures and waiver waiting list reduction. We hope they will work in the new homes or even become providers themselves.”

In the 2011 General Assembly session, Governor McDonnell and legislators together added $30 million to the Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Trust Fund to transition individuals from training centers to the community in preparation for the pending settlement agreement with DOJ.

This year, Governor McDonnell included an additional $30 million in his proposed budget for the coming session to continue to meet the terms of the agreement.

Background on Virginia’s developmental disability system includes:

· The combined census of the five state-run training centers for individuals with intellectual disability has dropped 42 percent. Today, there are 1,018 training center residents statewide (as of Jan. 5, 2012) in facilities with a combined capacity of 6,000. Statewide, these facilities average 70 discharges annually as a result of residents moving to the community and natural deaths, and average only 13 long-term admissions annually as more families choose community-based services.

· Training center costs account for 63.8 percent of appropriations for individuals with intellectual disability and support only 15.6 percent of the population with intellectual disabilities served in Virginia.

· Currently, the statewide average per-person cost in training centers is $216,000 which includes direct services, administrative support and high infrastructure requirements.

· Virginia provides alternatives to institutional services through the use of Medicaid “waivers” which enable individuals with intellectual disability to receive services while living in the community. 8,621 people (as of Jan. 6, 2012) receive services through a Medicaid Home and Community-Based Intellectual Disability (ID) Waiver. There is a waiting list for ID waiver services which now stands at 5,932 individuals; of these, 3,316 are considered urgent.

· Because smaller community homes’ administration and infrastructure costs are significantly lower than training centers, the statewide average per-person cost in the community is $138,000 for individuals with comparable care needs as training center residents.

Delegate Peace joins House Colleagues as they Unveil the K-12 Public Education Agenda for 2012 Session

Central Virginia- The weekly Republican Caucus press conference held this morning featured various proposals from members of the House Republican Caucus, including Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover), the host of the weekly House Republican Caucus press conference. Peace discussed House Bill 765, a measure which would allow any institution of higher education in Virginia to operate a college partnership laboratory school The House Republican Caucus was joined by Bill Thomas, Associate Vice President of Hampton University, for their weekly Policy Work Group press conference, this week discussing various K-12 initiatives the Caucus has introduced this session.

A College Partnership Laboratory School is a public, nonsectarian, nonreligious school established by a public institution of higher education operating in the Commonwealth which maintains and operates a teacher education program approved by the Board of Education. Virginia currently has 14 approved sites including but not limited to James Madison University, University of Virginia, Old Dominion University, and George Mason University.

Lab partnerships offer options and innovation for all Virginia school children, but especially those who are disadvantaged or at-risk. College lab schools give students more opportunities and parents more options for their child’s public education. These schools have worked in the past and there is currently interest within the higher education community to open College Partnership Laboratory Schools. Each lab school would have a governing board that is party to the contract with the Board of Education. This board would be under the control of the college or university establishing the lab school and its members are selected by the higher education institute.

"In 2010, the General Assembly passed legislation enabling public colleges and universities in Virginia to team with approved teacher-preparation programs in an effort to establish college partnership laboratory schools throughout the Commonwealth. This legislation would permit more partnerships between Virginia's higher educational institutions and K-12 public divisions, in turn increasing choices for K-12 students statewide," said Peace. "Laboratory schools allow local divisions to offer greater opportunities for innovative instruction and assessment methods - customizing and improving the educational experience for all of our students. Providing educational options through utilizing the strengths and talents at the Commonwealth's colleges and universities are necessary steps toward assuring academic success for our youngest citizens."

The House Republican Caucus Policy Work Group will hold a press conference each Monday at 11:00 am.

Governor McDonnell Asks General Assembly to Keep Uranium Mining Moratorium in Place in 2012 Session

Issues Directive to State Agencies to Analyze Scientific and Legal Issues and Report Back Prior to 2013 McDonnell: “Before we make important policy decisions about whether or not to proceed, we must be certain that uranium mining can be conducted safely and responsibly.”

Governor’s Directive Available Here

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell is asking the General Assembly to take no action to permit uranium mining during its 2012 session, calling instead for the continuation of the state’s moratorium on uranium mining pending a comprehensive and on-site study of the issue to be completed by a newly-created multi-agency state workgroup. The Governor’s directive that the state work group look further into the specific issues surrounding mining at a particular site in the Commonwealth follows a thorough review by the McDonnell Administration of the recent National Academy of Sciences report that looked broadly at uranium mining in Virginia. The report noted, “At present, there are gaps in legal and regulatory coverage for activities involved in uranium mining, processing, reclamation and long-term stewardship. Some of these gaps have resulted from the moratorium on uranium mining that Virginia has in place; others are gaps in current laws or regulations, or in the way that they are applied.” The Governor also consulted with agency heads, legislators, business leaders and others concerning the prudent course of action on this complicated issue.

Speaking about his decision to seek greater information regarding the efficacy and safety of uranium mining in Pittsylvania County, the Governor stated, “Over the past month I, along with members of our administration, have analyzed the NAS report on uranium mining in the Commonwealth in great detail. We have spoken with local legislators, agency heads, scientists as well as business and community leaders in and around the potential mining region. To further understand the issue members of our administration, including technical experts, traveled to Coles Hill to view the property personally. They also traveled to a uranium mining site in Canada to gain a greater understanding of the scientific and legal issues that must be addressed if Virginia were to move forward. Yesterday, I received a letter from a bipartisan group of Virginia legislators from the Uranium Subcommittee of the Coal and Energy Commission of the General Assembly asking that our Administration delay any action on uranium mining until such time that a more thorough and on-site review of the issue could take place. As a result of our analysis, and consideration of the points made in the letter, I believe that such an on-site study must take place before any action is taken. The NAS study was broadly helpful in providing a better understanding of the associated economic benefits, which are potentially significant, as well as the possible risks, which are potentially serious, associated with uranium mining in this geography and climate. However, in order for an informed decision to be made by state lawmakers, we need more detailed information. Before we make any decisions about whether or not to proceed down the path to development, we must be certain that uranium mining can be conducted safely and responsibly. Public safety must be the primary factor in the ultimate determination as to whether to proceed with uranium mining.

To attain that information, I have today sent a letter to my Secretaries of Natural Resources, Commerce and Trade and Health and Human Resources asking them to create a working group, comprised of the appropriate technical staff from the Departments of Health, Environmental Quality, and Mines, Minerals and Energy, which will develop a draft regulatory framework for presentation to the Coal and Energy Commission next year. My letter sets out more than a dozen issues that need to be addressed by the working group. Further, I have directed the group to report their progress to the legislative Uranium Subcommittee no fewer than three times over the next year, and to allow thorough opportunity for public participation in its work.

I have been clear that we must base all decisions on this matter on public safety and science. While uranium mining could mean the creation of high-paying jobs for our citizens, a boost for the important nuclear power industry, increased economic development for the region, and the generation of significant tax revenue for the entire Commonwealth, we must prudently study this issue to ensure that such mining would not impair the health of our people, or the condition of our environment. The NAS study, while broadly helpful, left many questions still unanswered. Some of those questions can only be answered through an on-site evaluation of Coles Hill and the surrounding area. I look forward to receiving the draft statutory proposal and regulatory framework from this working group. This analysis will arm the Commonwealth’s policy makers with more information and data so that they can soundly determine the proper course of action moving forward.”

Mechanicsville Student Chosen to Serve as House Page

Central VA- On January 11, Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) welcomed Isabella Moncure to service as a Page in the Virginia House of Delegates during the 2012 General Assembly session.

Isabella Moncure, 13, is an 8th grader at new Kent Middle School; she is actively involved in her community. In school, Moncure works hard and is on the Honor Roll; her favorite subject is math. Her favorite sport is swimming and she also enjoys gymnastics. Moncure also holds the title of Junior Miss Mechanicsville 2011. She hopes to attend the University of Virginia for her undergraduate studies, and eventually go to law school.

As for being chosen to represent the 97th District, Isabella mentioned, "I really miss my mom’s cooking, especially her baked ziti, but I enjoy working here at the General Assembly—especially the tips on the floor.”

"Isabella is a smart young lady with a bright future," said Peace. "I want to give her every opportunity to have this once in a lifetime experience. With a few members who were once pages, I wouldn't be surprised to see her in the legislature one day."

Each year the Speaker of the House of Delegates appoints 13 and 14 year-old youth from across the Commonwealth to serve as House pages during the regular session of the General Assembly. These young people assist the members of the House of Delegates, the House Clerk’s staff, and other legislative staff in the daily duties required for the successful operation of the House of Delegates during the session.

The page workday begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 5:00 p.m. A lunch break is provided. There is no weekend work except for the last Saturday of session. Pages collate bills for filing, deliver legislation and documents throughout the Capitol complex, and perform errands for members and staff of the House of Delegates during each day’s floor session and at committee meetings. Pages are also selected for assignments in specific House offices including the Speaker’s Office, the Clerk’s Office, the Enrolling Room, the Bill Room, the Fax Center and the Governor’s Office. Pages are trained for these assignments during the first two days of their employment. Every effort is made to provide each page with a variety of work assignments. All work assignments are important to the legislative process and should be performed in a professional manner.

While at work pages are under the supervision of the Clerk and Executive Assistant to the Clerk, the Page Coordinator and Assistant Page Coordinator, and two Head Pages who served as pages the previous year. After work pages have approximately two hours of unsupervised free time from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. reserved for eating dinner. It is mandatory that all pages reside at the hotel. There are two chaperons on duty at the hotel from 5:00 p.m. until 8:30 a.m. each day, Sunday through Friday.

A mandatory study hall is held at the hotel every Monday through Thursday evening from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Certified teachers supervise the pages and help individual students as needed. Pages are responsible for arranging with their schools and teachers the preferred method of taking tests and exams. For more information or to apply for future sessions, visit:

http://legis.virginia.gov/1_cap_class/stu_pro/sp_page_pro.html#House

Governor McDonnell Announces Results of Task Force on Local Mandate Review

Governor Sets Goal for Department of Education to Reduce Reporting Requirements for Schools by 15% – Recommends Relief from 20 Mandates on Localities

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell joined by members of the Governor's Task Force for Local Government Mandate Review, today announced specific legislation to eliminate burdensome state mandates on localities.

Today's announcement is part of a continuing effort to reduce burdensome state mandates on localities. In September 2011, Governor McDonnell announced the creation of the Governor's Task Force for Local Government Mandate Review. The five-member Task Force is a result of legislation introduced during the 2011 General Assembly Session by Senator Steve Newman (R-Bedford County) to review state mandates imposed on localities and to recommend temporary suspension or permanent repeal of such mandates as appropriate. In addition to the legislative proposals, Governor McDonnell is recommending $10 million in his Fiscal Year 2013 budget and $15 million in Fiscal Year 2014 to help offset previous reductions in aid to localities. The governor has also issued Executive Amendment 28 to designate a portion of any unappropriated balance to provide assistance to offset local Line of Duty Act costs.

Legislation representing recommendations of Task Force:

Judiciary •Remove ability for a Circuit Court to mandate localities to construct a new courthouse

Community Service Boards •Remove mandate that CSB contracts be for a maximum of one year and allows localities to contract with CSBs for more than a one-year term

Education •Remove mandate that proceeds from education surplus property go to capital improvements •Clarify that state law does not mandate that notices be mailed to every parent on per pupil educational costs •Remove mandates for various local education advisory committees •Remove mandate for annual report on remediation programs •Remove mandate for civics trainings for teachers •Remove mandate that libraries send Internet policies to the Librarian of Virginia (the requirement that libraries continue to have policies that prohibit access to inappropriate Internet materials will remain) •Remove mandate that local school boards must apply for a waiver from the state to start school before Labor Day •The administration will also request that the Department of Education identify burdensome or unnecessary state statutory and federal data collection and reporting requirements and submit recommendations to the governor and General Assembly on ones to eliminate or consolidate with a goal of reducing reporting requirements by 15 percent

Environmental •Remove mandate for state inspections of erosion and sediment control programs where localities have inspections

FOIA & Public Notices •Eliminate mandates to publish RFPs in newspapers •Increase FOIA response times

Procurement •Remove mandates that prevent localities from creating their own procurement guidelines •Raise the threshold for mandatory competitive negotiation of professional services contracted by localities •Eliminate mandate for pre-sale requirements of local surplus property •Eliminate mandate for localities to give first priority for vending contracts to the Department of Blind and Visually Impaired •Increase threshold for mandatory due diligence on unclaimed property

Land Use and Transportation •Eliminate mandate that requires Urban Development Area reports documents be submitted to the state Commission on Local Government •Eliminate the mandate for state approval for leases on airport property •Eliminate mandate that requires VDOT approval of the location of locally-placed red light camera

Speaking about the task force, Governor McDonnell remarked, "Virginia's local governments deserve accountability and partnership from state government leaders. Burdensome mandates on localities exacerbate the challenge of balancing a budget in these tight fiscal times. On the state level, we don't like it when the federal government hamstrings us with mandates and red tape. Unnecessary or over-reaching mandates are just as detrimental to local governments. This legislation is an important step forward and I applaud the Task Force for Local Mandate Review for working across party and geographic lines to develop these recommendations. We will continue to identify unfunded mandates on both the state and local level as well as examples of federal government overreach that prevent Virginia's government from focusing on the core functions of government."

Senator Steve Newman said, "As I listen to constituents in my district, a common concern has been burdensome state and federal mandates imposing cost and unnecessary red tape on the operations of localities. The Task Force for Local Mandate Review has made recommendations that will benefit local governments and individual citizens across the commonwealth."

Delegate Kathy Byron said, "It is unfortunately rare to see government at any level recognize and take corrective action when it overstretches its regulatory reach. I am pleased with the work and recommendations of the Task Force for Local Mandate Review, and look forward to guiding these important bills through the legislative process. These recommendations will streamline and simplify government for the citizens of the Commonwealth."

Chairman of the Local Government Mandate Review Task Force Supervisor Pat Herrity (Springfield District, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors) said, "I am very happy that we have a governor who understands the strains on local governments and has the desire to see those strains eased as much as possible. These recommendations are common-sense, and will provide fiscal relief to localities and the commonwealth which will enable both to more efficiently serve Virginia's residents. This report is a great first step, and I look forward to continuing our work to better serve the residents of the Commonwealth."

"I would like to thank Governor McDonnell, members of the Task Force for Local Mandate Review, school board members and school superintendents for making these important recommendations," said Joan Wodiska, Member, Falls Church City School Board and President of the Virginia School Boards Association. "By working together, they identified costly and burdensome state mandates and rightly recommended that these decisions be made at a local level. The removal of these mandates on school districts and localities will save time, tax-payer dollars and ultimately result in better, more accountable services for Virginians and better outcomes for our children."

The full report from the Task Force for Local Mandate Review is available here: Report–

4.7 Percent Decline in Revenue Confirms Need for Fiscal Restraint As General Assembly Considers Budget

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that December revenue collections decreased by 4.7 percent over the prior year. While calendar abnormalities with December only having four Wednesdays this year versus five Wednesdays last year (Wednesdays being a significant day for individual withholding payments,) account for most of the lower numbers, lower returns on corporate income tax payment and insurance premiums tax payments indicate continued prudence is necessary. As the General Assembly convened this week to consider the biennial budget, these numbers, slowing growth, lingering uncertainty regarding federal funding, and continued unacceptable levels of unemployment are prompting caution.

Because a number of factors can influence the flow of payments and monthly growth rates this time of year, December and January receipts must be considered together to get a clear picture of revenue growth. December’s revenue decrease was primarily driven by a 6.7 percent decline in individual income tax withholding payments and a 7.8 percent decline in corporate income tax payments and a 29.9 percent decline in insurance premiums tax payments—for which December is a significant month for collections. Other indicators were positive with an 11 percent increase in individual income tax nonwithholding payment and a 3.9 percent growth in sales and use taxes. January’s numbers will not be available until mid February.

On a year-to-date basis, total revenue collections have risen 4.2 percent, slightly behind the revised annual forecast of 4.6 percent growth. Adjusted for the accelerated sales tax program, state revenues have grown 3.7 percent, trailing the economic base forecast of 4.7 percent growth.

“Virginia’s economy continues to grow and recover from the economic challenges of past years, but the rate of growth has slowed. December’s falling revenue numbers are by no means a cause for panic, but they do call for a continuation of a conservative fiscal approach as the General Assembly considers my proposed biennial budget ,” Governor McDonnell said. “We have taken significant efforts to develop a conservative and focused spending plan that advances core government services such as the state retirement system, K-12 education, public safety and transportation, while allocating record funding to Virginia’s rainy day fund and our newly established federal spending contingency fund. Our proposed budget makes Virginia state government live within its means, and set priorities within existing revenue. Today’s revenue report demonstrates the need to adhere to this prudent approach. All indicators at the state and national level urge caution as our economy struggles to regain its footing. Virginia’s economy continues to demonstrate modest growth and lower than average unemployment, but the fragile national economy, persistent uncertainty in federal funding, and world and national events that impact our economy require us to exercise caution during this upcoming budget and to continue to take a conservative, responsible approach to state spending. We’ve helped create a more positive fiscal and business climate by keeping taxes low, setting priorities and exercising restraint as we navigate through this tough economy. We must continue that same approach going forward.

“More than 250,000 Virginians are still unemployed, an unacceptable hardship on Virginia’s families. We will continue making job creation and economic development our top priority. Our budget proposal to the General Assembly reflects our commitment to reducing spending, spurring private sector job creation and economic development, shrinking burdensome regulations on business and local governments, and focusing on the core services of government.”

The Commonwealth issued its general fund revenue forecast in December, revising total general fund revenues to grow by 4.6 percent in fiscal year 2012.

The December revenue numbers are available at this link: http://www.finance.virginia.gov/KeyDocuments/RevenueReports/FY2011-2012/2012ReportsList.cfm

Peace Announces 2012-2013 Committee Assignments

97th District Delegate Chris Peace appointed by Speaker to serve on House Appropriations Committee First Hanover representative to serve on "money" committee since Civil War

Central, VA - House Speaker William J. Howell, (R-Stafford), today named Del. Christopher K. Peace, (R-Hanover) to three committees in the Virginia House of Delegates including Health, Welfare, and Institutions (HWI), General Laws and Appropriations.

Peace is the first Hanoverian to serve on a "money" committee since William B. Newton served on Finance from 1861 to 1862.

The House Appropriations Committee considers matters relating to bills and resolutions that have a fiscal impact, whether from general or special funds of the Commonwealth. Appropriations also considers the state budget, claims, issuance of debt, and other matters concerning the expenditure of funds of the Commonwealth.

"I am honored that the Speaker has entrusted me with this great responsibility. Now more than ever we must reform and restructure government to make it work more efficiently and effectively. The state budget must prioritize government spending by core services first and not raise taxes. I will continue to work toward addressing the critical needs of our shared community." Peace said.

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 will serve as the Chair of the sub-committee on Housing for the General Laws committee.

Peace sits on the Health, Welfare and Institutions (HWI) committee and is the 4th ranking member. HWI which focuses on hospital and health care issues along with medical practitioner scope of practice issues. The Committee also considers matters pertaining to public health, mental health, and social services and welfare. Peace will serve as a sub-committee chair as well.

 

Governor McDonnell Announces DMV and DGIF Partnership

Joint Venture to improve One-Stop Shopping Options for Customers RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell today announced a partnership between the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) that supports his government reform initiative to streamline services. Beginning in late-January, citizens can register boats and boat trailers in one trip to either DGIF or DMV. They will also be able to purchase hunting and fishing licenses from both agencies.

Speaking about the partnership, Governor McDonnell commented, “This partnership will simplify the citizens’ interaction with state agencies. Boat-owners can choose where they go to register boats and boat trailers. Previously, boat-owners had to go to DGIF to register their boats and to DMV to register their trailers. Now, it’s one-stop shopping. They can conduct both transactions at either agency.”

Governor McDonnell continued, “The 74 local DMV customer service centers and two mobile offices will join the more than 700 DGIF license agents across the state so customers will not have to travel far to obtain these products if they desire a face-to-face experience.”

DMV and DGIF are working with the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to determine how the DMV 2 Go mobile offices can assist with the sales of hunting and fishing licenses during peak seasons and events such as the highly-anticipated opening day for trout at Douthat State Park in early April.

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Open letter to Constituents from Delegate Chris Peace

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I am honored to have the privilege of serving and working on behalf of the citizens of the 97th House District. Working together, we have accomplished many things for our community and our Commonwealth. As we begin the 2012 legislative session, I hope you will take a few moments to share with me your thoughts on some of the issues facing the General Assembly. Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete the legislative questionnaire. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance to you or your family. My annual legislative survey questions reference important public policy issues which may be considered by the General Assembly during the 2012 Legislative Session. You may access the online survey via my website at www.chrispeace.com.

If you do not have access to a computer or would prefer a hard copy of the survey, please call 804-698-1097 and my office will mail you a copy along with a reply envelope for you to easily return the completed survey.

Your opinion is very important to me, so please take a few moments to let me know where you stand on these important issues. If you are undecided on an issue, feel free to leave it blank. Should you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me at the Capitol Office at (804) 698-1097, via email at DelCPeace@house.virginia.gov , on Facebook at Christopher K. Peace or on Twitter @DelCPeace.

Additionally, I am hosting a telephone town hall meeting on Monday, January 9 at 7:00pm. A telephone town hall is a wonderful tool to communicate with a large number of residents across this central Virginia district. Virginians that choose to take part in the interactive conference call will do so from the comfort of their own home. Constituents will have the opportunity to ask questions of me and listen as I answer questions of others. I have received much positive feedback from residents in response to past calls.

If you would like to assure that you are on the call, please contact Delegate Peace's office at 804-698-1097 or e-mail info@chrispeace.com.

Thank you again for the honor of serving as your representative from the 97th District.