Yearly Tuition Increases at Virginia Colleges Fall to Decade-Low

Average increase of 4.1 percent in 2012 is less than half of 10-year average; Down from 7.9% Last Year; Tuition at Virginia Schools had Increased by 91% over Last Decade

Drop in Tuition Increases Made Possible by $230 Million Additional Investment in the 2012-14 Biennial Budget

RICHMOND – As students prepare to return to campus for another year, Governor McDonnell and other higher education leaders today announced that Virginia undergraduates at public colleges and universities in the Commonwealth this fall will experience the lowest tuition and mandatory fee increase in a decade. The announcement comes as the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) releases its annual report on tuition and fees at public higher education institutions. Joined by members of the General Assembly, students, representatives from the State SCHEV, college presidents and Chairman of the Governor's Commission on Higher Education Reform, Innovation, and Investment Tom Farrell, Governor McDonnell announced that the average tuition increase of 4.1 percent represents a 3.8 percent drop from last year’s increase of 7.9 percent. This year’s low tuition and fee increases were possible due in large part to the continued commitment of reinvestment by Governor Bob McDonnell and the 2012 General Assembly’s allocation of $230 million in additional general fund support to Virginia’s public higher education institutions in the 2012-14 biennium. The Governor and General Assembly’s reinvestment in higher education will help public institutions meet the goals of the ‘Top Jobs’ Virginia Education Opportunity Act of 2011, landmark legislation that calls for an additional 100,000 college graduates by the year 2025.

“I am incredibly pleased to see that when Virginia students go back to school this fall, they will encounter the lowest yearly tuition increases in a decade. We ran on a commitment to making college more affordable and accessible for Virginia students. Now, we are turning that policy proposal into tangible results for Virginia parents and students” said Governor McDonnell. “Too many Virginia students graduate from college with significant debt, making the high cost of a college education both a deterrent and an ongoing financial burden. This year’s reduced tuition increases, however, will help make higher education more affordable and more accessible for Virginia students and their families. The new funding in the biennial budget, coupled with the dollars that will be reallocated to the programs and priorities set forth in the Top Jobs legislation put Virginia’s higher education institutions on track for a strong and vibrant future. I thank the college presidents for their dedication to work to increasing access to our world-class schools in Virginia. As a father of five, I know very well how expensive college is, and the burdens it puts on families and students. We are investing in higher education again in Virginia, and that investment is reducing costs for our young people. This is real progress, and it is the result of bipartisan cooperation and commitment in addressing this critical issue. ”

Delegate Kirk Cox said, “The 91 percent increase in tuition and fees over the last 10 years in Virginia is unacceptable and this year, through the collaborative work of the General Assembly, college presidents and Governor McDonnell, we have seen schools significantly rein in tuition increases. As students and their parents prepare for the coming school year, this is yet another sign that Virginia remains serious about making higher education affordable and accessible for our citizens.”

Senator Tommy Norment said, “When we passed the bipartisan “Top Jobs of the 21st Century” higher education legislation in 2011, we set the goal to give every student in Virginia a quality education at an affordable price. Limiting tuition increases is a central component of that significant reform, and I thank the college presidents, the governor and my colleagues in the General Assembly for putting in the work to make today’s announcement possible.”

Chairman of the Governor's Commission on Higher Education Reform, Innovation, and Investment Tom Farrell said, “When I joined the governor to announce the ‘Top Jobs’ of the 21st Century” higher education legislation last year, we laid out a clear roadmap to making the kind of reform-based investments that will build the foundation for job creation, business recruitment and economic success for the Commonwealth in years to come. While work remains to increase access to higher education for all Virginians, today’s announcement of decade-low tuition increases marks a significant step in the right direction.”

“The Commonwealth must continue to pursue a policy to make higher education more affordable and accessible,” said Gil Bland, Chairman of SCHEV. “The average total charge for an in-state undergraduate student living on campus at a 4-year institution has grown from 32.2 percent of per capita disposable income (income available for spending and saving) in 2002 to 45 percent in 2012.”

SCHEV is the Commonwealth’s coordinating body for Virginia’s system of higher education. The agency provides policy guidance and budget recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly, and is a resource for Virginia colleges and universities on higher education issues.

Governor McDonnell Signs Legislation to Protect Property Rights of Virginia Citizens

– Legislation puts constitutional amendment to protect private property rights on the Nov. 6th ballot – RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell ceremonially signed four pieces of legislation to protect the property rights of Virginia citizens. HB5 (R. Bell) and its companion SB240 (Obenshain) provide for a referendum for a constitutional amendment to protect private property rights on the Nov. 6, 2012 ballot. HB1035 (Joannou) and SB437 (Obenshain) provide clear definitions for the terms "lost profits" and "lost access" and how to determine the amount of just compensation.

Question 1 on the Nov. 6 ballot will read: "Shall Section 11 of Article I (Bill of Rights) of the Constitution of Virginia be amended to require that eminent domain powers only be exercised for public uses and not for private gain, private benefit, private enterprise, increasing jobs, increasing tax revenue or economic development; and amended to define what is to be included in determining just compensation for permissible takings and to prevent the taking of more private property than is necessary for the state public use?"

Voters will be asked to choose "Yes" or "No."

Speaking about the legislation signed today, Governor McDonnell said, "This legislation is an important step toward including necessary private property protections in Virginia's constitution. Protecting the liberty and property of its citizens is a fundamental role of government, and this constitutional amendment makes those protections stronger in Virginia. The amendment that will be before Virginia voters this Nov. 6, sets clear boundaries on the ability of government to seize their property and will help ensure that when property is taken for a true public use, that the property owner will be fully compensated. I encourage our citizens to make their voices heard this November and support this important constitutional protection."

Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, who helped to write the amendment, said, "It has been seven long years of effort, but with the passage of the property rights amendment, our citizens are one step closer to enshrining in the Constitution of Virginia the protections they deserve from overzealous governments and the developers who use them to take away Virginians' homes, farms, and small businesses. We have fought every year since the 2005 Kelo decision to strengthen property rights in the Commonwealth through various bills and three attempts at a constitutional amendment. A property rights amendment to Virginia's constitution is the ultimate protection. Virginians need, and voters will finally have, a property rights amendment to vote on in the November ballot."

"Our members are excited about the opportunity that this constitutional amendment will provide," said Wayne Pryor, president of the Virginia Farm Bureau, which advocated for the constitutional amendment. "No longer will our farms, homes or businesses be taken and given to another private property owner under Kelo-type eminent domain abuses."

Bills Signed Today

HB5 (R. Bell)/SB240 (Obenshain) Eminent Domain Voter Referendum

  • Provides for a referendum at the Nov. 6, 2012, election to approve or reject an amendment that revises the prohibition on the enactment by the General Assembly of laws whereby private property may be taken or damaged without just compensation
  • The constitutional amendment
    • Requires that eminent domain only be exercised where the property taken or damaged is for public use and, except for utilities or the elimination of a public nuisance
      • Not where the primary use is for private gain, private benefit, private increasing jobs, increasing tax revenue, or economic development
  • Defines what is included in just compensation for such taking or damaging of property
  • And prohibits the taking or damaging of more private property than is necessary for the public use

 

HB1035 (Joannou)/SB437 (Obenshain) Eminent Domain Define Lost Access and Lost Profits

  • Provides definitions for the terms "lost profits" and "lost access" and how to determine the amount of just compensation, which includes lost profits and lost access resulting from the taking, that must be paid for property taken by eminent domain
  • The bill has a contingent effective date of Jan. 1, 2013, provided that the voters approve an amendment to Section 11 of Article I of the Constitution of Virginia at the November 2012 election

# # #

Governor Issues July 6 Update on Recovery from Derecho

Power Outages Down to 70,000; Citizens Advised to Take Precautions Against Heat Wave

 

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued an update today regarding Virginia’s ongoing recovery from the powerful derecho and thunderstorms that occurred June 29-30. As of noon, details on the impact of the storms and ongoing recovery efforts are listed below.

“This historic time of extended power outages has brought together local governments, volunteer groups, state agencies and utility companies to work in close coordination to care for our citizens and restore essential services as quickly as possible, ” said Governor McDonnell. “It has been a trying time, and I am grateful for the progress that has been made and the patience our citizens have shown. We will continue our around-the-clock efforts until power has been restored to every household. In the meantime, I ask that every citizen be extremely careful in these high temperatures and seek cool places away from the intense heat.”

Power Outages as of 11:30 a.m.:

Statewide 70,601

APCO 65,512

  • · City of Lynchburg 9,863
  • · Roanoke, City of 9,581
  • · Amherst County 7,627
  • · Roanoke County 5,247
  • · Bedford County 3,831
  • · Giles County 3,584

Dominion Power 5,089

  • · Shenandoah Valley/Western Piedmont 3,963
  • · Northern Virginia 760
  • · Richmond Metro/Tri-Cities 253

Fatalities

Storm-related fatalities: 13

  • · Two in Albemarle County; two in Bedford County; one in Chesapeake; four in Fairfax County; one in Loudoun County; one in Montgomery County; one in Richmond and one in Roanoke

Roads Closed

120 closed (11 primary road and 109 secondary roads). Previous numbers were incorrect due to a software reporting error.

Current State Response

  • · The Virginia Department of Emergency Management is coordinated delivery of water, generators and other supplies to localities, upon request. Only one generator, in Alleghany County, is still in use. All other generators have been released.
  • · VDEM is providing volunteer coordination. Volunteers have prepared more than 6,000 meals, donated bottled water and provided equipment and generators.
  • · VDEM has an event blog to record state response, track the opening of cooling centers and provide information to the public at www.virginiaderecho.tumblr.com
  • · The Virginia Department of Transportation continues to coordinate with utility workers to open roads so that power lines can be repaired. Drivers can call 511 or visit www.511virginia.org for road conditions. Report road issues to 1-800-FOR-ROAD.
  • · The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) issued heat safety information. Virginians should take precautions from the effects of high heat:
    • o Keep cool in an air-conditioned area. Visit malls, local libraries, local cooling centers, or stay with family or friends who have air conditioning.
    • o Take cold baths and showers to cool down.
    • o Drink 2-4 glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour, regardless of your activity level.
    • o Be aware that fans by themselves in extreme temperatures are not enough to prevent heat-related illnesses.
    • o Those who need shelter, water or food should check with local social services departments, local emergency management officials, or volunteer groups for assistance.

Local Response

  • · Nine local shelters are open; this number changes with need.
  • · Localities are opening cooling centers to provide daytime relief from the heat for their citizens. To find cooling shelters, people should listen to their local media, call their local emergency management officials, or go to www.virginiaderecho.tumblr.com

 

Governor McDonnell Issues Independence Day Statement

RICHMOND — Governor McDonnell issued the following statement today in recognition and celebration of tomorrow’s Independence Day holiday. “For 236 years, our nation has served as a beacon for the ideals of freedom and democracy, exemplifying the principles that have made us the greatest nation in the world and inspired countless other peoples to stand up against tyranny and oppression wherever it is found. Jefferson, Madison, Henry, Mason, Washington and others, great Virginians who gave birth to this country, drew inspiration from the Commonwealth’s beauty and its bounty to stand up and declare our own fledgling country’s freedom on July 4, 1776. America was born in Virginia. And the ideals personified and promulgated by our founder’s are alive and well today in our great state, which is now home to the largest naval base in the world, the Pentagon, more than 823,000 veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom, and scores of other important national treasures and military installations. In Virginia you can see our nation’s founding, our nation’s journey, and our nation’s future, all side by side.

“Tomorrow, as Virginians stand over the grill, sit by the pool, or look to the heavens to view flashes of a fireworks display, I encourage them to also reflect upon the countless men and women who have risked their lives by standing up for our principles. These men and women have ensured that the United States of America would indeed prevail as a model for what Jefferson wrote are the self-evident truths of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And let us not forget the thousands of men and women who, on this joyous day, continue to remain in harm’s way to protect these ideals at home and for all people around the world who long to be free. The price of freedom remains eternal vigilance.

“God bless America.”

Governor McDonnell Issues New Update on Virginia’s Recovery from Weekend Storms

Power Outages Reduced to 286,000 Customers Statewide; Down from 1.2 Million Customers at Peak on Saturday; Outages Down 123,000 Over Last 12 Hours; All Hospitals Back on Grid Power

Storm-Related Fatalities Rise to 11

Governor Urges Virginians to Help One Another As Heat Continues

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued a Tuesday morning update regarding Virginia’s ongoing recovery from severe storms that struck the Commonwealth this weekend. The governor continues to ask Virginians to check on their family and friends as high temperatures continue across the Commonwealth in the aftermath of the historic derecho weather event.

As of 6 a.m., power companies are reporting that approximately 286,000 customers are without power statewide, a decline of 123,300 since 6 p.m. yesterday. At the height of the outages, some 1.2 million customers were without power. Power companies report that it will take the rest of this week and into the weekend for full power restoration. All hospitals are back on grid power. The number of storm-related fatalities has increased to 11, with the addition of a fatality in Loudoun County.

“We are seeing outage numbers decline, and the power companies are working around the clock with extra staffing,” said Governor McDonnell. “But the intense heat combined with lack of power continues to be a real and ongoing safety concern for us. Residents should do all they can to stay cool and to care for neighbors, friends and family who may not have power. We continue to work very closely with the utility and communications companies to assure every effort is being made to get all systems back on line as quickly as possible.”

Current state efforts to respond to the aftermath of the derecho include:

  • The Virginia Emergency Operations Center is augmented with staff from various state agencies who are coordinating requests for assistance from local governments and providing resources as needed.

 

  • The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has coordinated delivery of 62,000 gallons of water to Charlottesville and Albemarle, Alleghany, Bedford, Botetourt and Page counties. Fourteen generators have been delivered to Bath, Botetourt, Highland and Rockingham counties and the town of Vinton and city of Covington. Heavy equipment has been provided to Albemarle County and Charlottesville, and advanced life support ambulances from Halifax and Chesterfield counties have been provided to Alexandria.

 

  • VDEM has set up an event blog to record agency response, track the opening of cooling centers and provide information to the public at www.virginiaderecho.tumblr.com

 

  • The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) continues to coordinate with utility workers to remove downed trees and debris from roads so that power lines can be repaired. There are 15 primary roads (numbers 1-599) and 159 secondary roads (numbers 600 and above) closed. Where traffic signals are without power, drivers should treat the intersection as a four-way stop. Call 511 or visit www.511virginia.org for road conditions and report road issues to 1-800-FOR-ROAD.

 

  • The Virginia National Guard has 115 personnel staged in Fredericksburg, 30 in Lexington and 20 in Winchester who are checking traffic routes, assessing damage and providing residents with information about local cooling centers. Also, 10 VNG personnel are assisting with water and ice distribution in Bedford County.

 

  • The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is providing timely public health messages about food safety, heat-related illness and safe debris removal.

 

  1. A total of 11 storm-related fatalities have been confirmed in Virginia: two in Albemarle County, two in Bedford County, one in the city of Chesapeake, three in Fairfax County, one in Loudoun County, one in Montgomery County and one in the city of Roanoke.
  2. Virginians should take precautions from the effects of high heat:
    1. Keep cool in an air-conditioned area. Visit malls, local libraries, local cooling centers, or stay with friends or family who have air conditioning.
    2. Take cold baths and showers to cool down.
    3. Drink 2-4 glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour, regardless of your activity level.
    4. Be aware that fans by themselves in extreme temperatures are not enough to prevent heat-related illnesses.
    5. Those with immediate need for shelter, food or water should check with local social services departments, county or city governments, or volunteer groups for assistance.
  3. Virginians should take precautions for food safety.
    1. If your power has been out for 48 hours or longer – and you have not made other provisions for keeping your food at or below 41 degrees F – do not eat it.
    2. Food must be kept at 41 degrees F or below before cooking or eating it. If you do not have a thermometer to track temperature or you are not sure, discard the food.
    3. If you are using a cooler, ice needs to be replaced at least every 24 hours, and temperature must be kept constantly cold at 41 degrees or below for food safety.
    4. When in doubt, throw it out.

Local governments are actively responding to the storm’s aftermath:

  • 40 localities have declared emergencies, and 20 local emergency operations centers remain open to coordinate assistance to their residents.
  • 11 local shelters are open, although this number changes with need.
  • Localities are opening cooling centers to provide daytime relief from the heat for their citizens. To find cooling shelters, people should listen to their local media, call their local emergency management officials or go to www.virginiaderecho.tumblr.com

Many volunteer groups are busy in heavily-impacted areas:

  • Volunteers are assisting Virginia Dominion Power with distribution of truckloads of donated water.
  • Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia Disaster Relief is supporting a shelter in Lynchburg and providing chain saw service.
  • Mercy Chefs have provided a chef to supervise and assist with meal preparations in a Lynchburg shelter.
  • American Red Cross and Virginia Baptist Mission Board Disaster Relief have established a feeding unit in Bath County, providing up to 3,000 hot meals daily.
  • In Bath County, the American Red Cross and Virginia Baptists are providing meals, and Gleaning for the World has provided 500 gallons of water.
  • Gleaning for the World and God’s Pit Crew have donated truckloads of water and Gatorade, respectively.

 

Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on U.S. Supreme Court Decision on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement today following the decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). “Today’s Supreme Court ruling is extremely disappointing for Virginia and for America. The PPACA will create a costly and cumbersome system that will impair our country’s ability to recover from these challenging economic times, infringes on our citizen’s liberties, will harm small businesses, and will impose dramatic unfunded mandates on Virginia and all states. Simply put, this is a blow to freedom. America needs market-based solutions that give patients more choice, not less.

“Virginia will evaluate the steps necessary to comply with the law. While we have awaited this decision, planners have been working to identify necessary resources and issues to be addressed to ensure Virginia implements this flawed law in the most effective and least costly and burdensome way possible. In coming months, Virginia’s healthcare leaders will work to develop the best possible system to meet the healthcare needs of our citizens. It remains my hope that we will elect a new President and Senate so that the existing law will be repealed and states will be given the freedom they need to implement healthcare solutions that work best for their citizens. We will evaluate the opinion in detail in the days ahead and determine what policies are proper for the people of Virginia.

The Virginia Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons Recognizes Delegate Peace for his Legislative Service

-- Peace Receives the Ira Lederman Legislative Vision Award--

Central, VA –Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) was pleased to be recently awarded the 2012 Ira Lederman Legislative Vision Award by the Virginia Society of Eye Physicians.

 This high honor acknowledges one's service to the public, particular and significant contribution to the profession of ophthalmology and the visual care and welfare of Virginia's residents, and an exemplary commitment to enhancing the delivery of quality health care.

Speaking about the award, “I am humbled to be recognized by the Virginia Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons for my legislative efforts,” stated Peace.

He continued, “As a member of the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee, I am tasked with deliberating over many bills that impact the safety and well being of Virginia citizens.  I was glad to patron this measure which will serve to further protect the vision of residents of the Commonwealth.”

The award was precipitated by the successful passage of House Bill 266 during the 2012 General Assembly session.  Peace’s bill defined "surgery" so that no person other than a licensed doctor of medicine, osteopathy, or dentistry, a licensed nurse practitioner, or a person who is acting pursuant to the orders and under the appropriate supervision of a licensed doctor of medicine, osteopathy, or dentistry shall perform surgery.

As federal and state policies promote team care approaches to health care delivery, there is a need to clearly define the roles and standards for surgical and other invasive treatments.

Virginians deserve assurances that only medically trained surgeons are permitted to operate on them.  Surgery performed by under-trained or inappropriately trained health practitioners can result in irreversible consequences.

“Assuring access to quality health care for the residents on the 97th District and across the Commonwealth is vital to my role as a legislator," stated Peace. “This legislation is an effective way to help ensure patients are receiving safe and proper surgical procedures by practitioners that are adequately trained and licensed.”

Namesake of the award, Dr. Ira Lederman, is an ophthalmologist in private practice in Norfolk, VA.  He is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and is currently Senior Councilor to the Virginia Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons.

To learn more about VSEPS please visit:  http://www.vaeyemd.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1

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.

 

Governor McDonnell Signs Educational Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit Legislation

Legislation establishes a tax credit for need-based scholarship donations to non-profit organizations

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell today ceremonially signed House Bill 321 (Massie) and its companion Senate Bill 131 (Stanley) to establish the need-based Educational Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit for K-12 students. The tax credit is equal to 65 percent of the donation, with an annual cap of $25 million from the state. The governor was joined by education advocates, teachers, school administrators and legislators. The legislation goes into effect on July 1.

Speaking about the bills signed today, Governor McDonnell said, “Every Virginia student should have the opportunity to get a good education and develop their unique talents. The legislation signed today enlists the private sector to stretch state dollars further in providing greater educational opportunity to families who would otherwise have a financial barrier. I thank Senator Stanley and Delegate Massie for their leadership in the General Assembly and also thank all of the advocates, families and students for voicing their support for this measure.”

Delegate Jimmie Massie said, “Today’s signing ceremony marks an important step that Virginia is taking to change and improve our K through 12 education system. That is to best prepare our children to compete in a global economy!  By signing this bill into law, students from low and moderate income families, and students with disabilities, will be given new opportunities to achieve their academic potential. As this legislation goes into effect next week, I look forward to working with and seeing the fruits of this partnership with members of the business community, and all Virginians, to help more Virginia students get a world-class education.”

Senator Bill Stanley said, “I am very excited to finally see this bill through, and to immediately start helping students gain easier and more affordable access to good education. I have always believed that a good education is vital to equal opportunity in the future. This legislation represents a significant investment in additional educational opportunities for our young people. Thank you again to all of those who advocated for this legislation, particularly House Patron Delegate Massie and Governor McDonnell.”

Bill Signed Today

SB 131 (Stanley)/HB 321 (Massie) Educational Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit

  • Establishes a tax credit for scholarship donations to non-profit organizations to be given to K-12 students whose family’s annual household income is not in excess of 300 percent of the poverty guidelines and certain students with disabilities.  At least 90 percent of each donation must be distributed for scholarships.  The tax credit is equal to 65 percent of the donation.  There is an annual cap of $25 million.

Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on the University of Virginia Presidency

~Governor McDonnell Sends Letter to Board of Visitors~

RICHMOND— Governor Bob McDonnell today issued the following statement on the University of Virginia presidency.  He also sent a letter to the Board of Visitors this afternoon.  The letter is available here: http://www.governor.virginia.gov/utility/docs/LetterToUVA-Board.pdf

In the letter, Governor McDonnell writes: “But let me be absolutely clear: I want final action by the Board on Tuesday.  If you fail to do so, I will ask for the resignation of the entire Board on Wednesday. Regardless of your decision, I expect you to make a clear, detailed and unified statement on the future leadership of the University.”

Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell:

“For nearly 200 years, UVA has trained America’s leaders.  The standards of excellence and conduct there have been a model for the nation since Thomas Jefferson defined them in 1819.

The last twelve days have been tumultuous for the University.  Well-meaning people who love and are connected to the University have expressed strong and divergent opinions concerning the action to remove the President.  Reasonable people may disagree.  However, the manner in which those disagreements are expressed can reflect well or poorly on the institution as a whole.

When arriving at its decision to ask for the resignation of President Sullivan, the Board of Visitors made procedural mistakes which its leaders have acknowledged, including a lack of transparency and a failure in communication. A vote to remove the President requiring two-thirds approval of the Board was not taken, and the multiple board meetings and the ensuing predictable press frenzy have created great uncertainty imperiling the University’s ability to move forward.

I have communicated these concerns to the Board in a separate letter that is attached.

At the same time, I am concerned about certain actions and statements from some members of the public and the University community.  This should be viewed as a disagreement within the family, not a war.  Mr. Jefferson would have expected a higher level of discourse where people forcefully and civilly express their concerns.  He noted in his first inaugural address that ‘every difference of opinion is not a difference of principle.’ All agree with the principle that UVA is a world-class university where continual growth and progress is needed to keep America competitive, and to advance the acquisition of knowledge that will improve the human condition.

The lack of an open and clear process of asking for the resignation of the first female President of UVA, as well as the vitriolic comments directed at the first female rector of UVA , are equally deplorable.  I have learned of the defacement of property on Grounds, threats by some faculty or staff to not acknowledge the legitimacy of an interim President elected by a 12-1 vote of the Board, and a few faculty and staff urging others to quit.  While emotions are expectedly high in such matters, these actions reflect poorly on the University and must end immediately.

The University has its own well-known honor system that ‘exists to foster a cohesive bond of trust among all members of the University community and to instill in all students a mutual reverence for the ideal of honorable behavior.’ The standard must be met.

To the political leaders who have waded in with limited facts for political reasons, I ask you to please stop.  To the few faculty members, staff, and alumni who, in their anger over how this process unfolded, now foment division that only adds to the troubles, I ask you to please stop.  To students and members of the public who are concerned about UVA, I urge you to be patient, while I understand entirely how difficult that can be in such a situation.

University Boards make key personnel and policy decisions that must be followed.  For anyone to conclude that the future of the University is tied to any one president, one faculty member, one staff member, one board member, or any one Governor, or any one individual is to vastly underestimate the greatness of this university. UVA is one of America’s preeminent institutions of higher learning, due to a host of interconnected people and systems, and it will continue to be so long after the events of the past two weeks have been consigned to history.  The stature and success of UVA has been developed over nearly 200 years because of the vision of its founder, the dedication and hard work of its world class faculty and staff, the intelligence and perseverance of its students, and its culture of excellence and honor.

That culture of excellence must continue to grow. The General Assembly and I, over the last 18 months, with great input and cooperation from President Sullivan and the Board, and Presidents and Boards from around the Commonwealth, have crafted a broad vision for the future of higher education which passed unanimously last year. This legislation calls for more positions for undergraduate students in Virginia schools, more focus on STEM-H subjects, higher degree completion ratios, more innovation and research, lower tuition increases to reduce crushing student debt, and more financial aid. Additionally, at my request, $350 million in new money is being invested in higher education over three years, the most money in over a decade.  I will continue to expect Board members, presidents and faculty to embrace reform, innovation, and fiscal responsibility as we move forward together.

The goals are greater access at reasonable cost, training people well for the great jobs of tomorrow in an increasingly competitive global economy, and the advancement of knowledge to aid the human condition.  It is my fervent hope that the discussions at UVA will promptly return to implement these policy goals and how to further advance the pursuit of inquiry and reason.

The only legitimate question now facing the board is: What leadership is required at UVA to continue to pursue increased excellence in the 21st century?

The time is now for finality and closure. The Board has called a meeting for this Tuesday. Following that meeting, I call upon all in the UVA community, from the Board members, to administration, to faculty, staff, students and donors to address the presidential decision and its aftermath with a respectful and measured approach, rather than with the frenzy that has accompanied much of the last twelve days. The University must move forward.

We must remember that the purpose of higher education is to advance ideas, principles, knowledge and inquiry.  Jefferson noted in 1817, ‘If the condition of man is to be progressively ameliorated, as we fondly hope and believe, education is to be the chief instrument in effecting it.’

Together we will navigate these troubled waters and this great University will be an even stronger and brighter beacon of higher education excellence in the world.”

 

 

Governor McDonnell Announces $11.4 Billion in Transportation Improvements

Commonwealth Transportation Board approves Six-Year Improvement Program

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) approved $11.4 billion in allocations for transportation improvement projects over the next six years beginning July 1. The Six-Year Improvement Program distributes funding for highway, road and bridge projects as well as rail, transit, bicycle, pedestrian and other transportation improvements across the state.

“The six-year program advances projects that will relieve congestion in the most heavily traveled areas of the state and improve numerous roads and bridges throughout Virginia,” said Governor McDonnell. “The program also supports a better multi-modal system, moving more people with fewer cars.”

The six-year program is $800 million more than last year’s program, with most of the increase coming from public- and private-sector contributions for the I-95 Express Lanes construction, scheduled to begin this year in Northern Virginia.

Transportation Secretary Sean T. Connaughton added, “As a result of the governor’s commitment to transportation, the CTB is moving ahead with critical projects that not only improve transportation but also are good for the economy and stimulate jobs.”

Each year the six-year program is updated to reflect the latest projected revenues and transportation priorities. Several public meetings were held last fall and this spring to gather citizen input, which is reflected in the program. Allocations are based on the following priorities:

  • Complete projects under construction
  • Complete preliminary engineering or right of way phases of other projects
  • Maximize federal funding
  • Address safety issues by funding deficient bridges and pavement
  • Support transportation projects procured under the Public-Private Transportation Act and the Governor’s ongoing transportation priorities

Six-year program funding breakdown:

  • Roads, highways, bridges, debt service - $9 billion
  • Rail, transit and other improvements - $2.4 billion
  • Total - $11.4 billion

FY 2013 budgets

The CTB also approved FY 2013 annual budgets for the Commonwealth Transportation Fund (CTF),  the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and the Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). The CTF budget identifies the estimated revenues and the distribution of the revenues related to the transportation agencies.

FY 2013 budget totals:

  • Commonwealth Transportation Fund (VDOT, DRPT, Airports and Ports) - $4.7 billion
  • VDOT (construction, maintenance, administration, debt service and other costs) - $4.2 billion
  • DRPT (public transportation and commuter assistance programs, Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, administration and other costs) - $509 million

The final SYIP and budgets are available for review on the VDOT (www.VirginiaDOT.org) and DRPT websites (www.drpt.virginia.gov).

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United States Chamber of Commerce Commends Virginia as America's "Most Livable State" in Annual Enterprising States Rankings

– Virginia has #1 Median Family Income, #1 STEM Job Concentration and #1 High-tech Share of all Businesses – Report Cites the Effect of Governor McDonnell's Signature Top Jobs Act in Boosting Virginia's Talent Pipeline

From the Report: Virginia - The Emerging East Coast Economic Superstar: "Virginia's pro-growth policies and favorable business climate have made the commonwealth a leader in economic growth over the last decade…Virginia's low tax and regulatory environment, coupled with its proximity to the nation's capital have made the state one of the most attractive locations for both domestic and international ­firms. Its strength in the rapidly growing professional services sectors, along with its highly educated workforce and potential as a transportation and industrial hub position it well for the future."

RICHMOND - The United States Chamber of Commerce commended Virginia as America's "Most Livable State" in its annual "Enterprising States: Policies that Produce" ranking. The report noted that Virginia ranks #1 nationally in median family income, STEM job concentration and in the high-tech share of all businesses. Among other things, the report attributes Virginia's success to its low tax and regulatory environment, its highly educated workforce, potential as a transportation and industrial hub, Governor McDonnell's 'forward-looking' Top Jobs of the 21st Century higher education legislation, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership's aggressive job creation efforts, the Port of Virginia, the governor's $4 billion transportation funding program and the governor's "Year of the Entrepreneur" effort.

Speaking about the "Enterprising States" report from the United States Chamber of Commerce, Governor McDonnell said, "This report confirms what we already knew: that Virginia is the best state in which to make a living and pursue the American Dream. What makes Virginia's jobs climate the best in the nation is that our policy-makers listen to our entrepreneurs and job creators. I am pleased to see this affirmation of Virginia's pro-jobs policies from the world's largest business federation and will work tirelessly to build and sustain a business climate that will put more Virginians back to work.  We will also study this report and continue to reach out to businesses in Virginia and abroad to see how we can continue to improve and grow and attract more jobs to Virginia."

Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling said, "This is great news for Virginia, and further indication that the emphasis we have placed on improving Virginia's economy is working.  We've clearly made a lot of progress over the past two years in re-establishing Virginia as the nation's leader in so many areas, but we have a lot of work left to do.  If we continue emphasizing economic development and job creation and addressing critical issues in education and transportation we will continue to do well.  It's just great to see our efforts and accomplishments recognized in such a positive way on the national level."

The full report from the United States Chamber of Commerce is available here: http://www.uschamber.com/sites/default/files/reports/Enterprising-States-2012-web.pdf

Governor McDonnell Announces Accelerated Sales Tax Program Now Eliminated for 96% of Affected Businesses

~Governor Continues Moving to Fast-Track Ending of Program~

McDonnell: “Fast-tracking the phase-out of the accelerated sales tax program is sound fiscal policy that will help Virginia businesses grow and create jobs.  I have long said that I want to eliminate this anti-business program as soon as possible and not require any business to make this additional payment.”

BERN, SWITZERLAND – When Governor Bob McDonnell signed the “Caboose Budget Bill” on May 25, he delivered on his promise to speed up the phasing out of the Accelerated Sales Tax program, which the governor opposes as public policy.  More than 8,800 businesses with at least $1 million in taxable sales have previously been required to make an additional sales and use tax payment in June. They had to pay their regular payment of sales tax collected in May, due on June 20, as well as the new accelerated payment, which is equal to 90 percent of their taxable sales for the previous June. The accelerated payment was due by the end of the month.

Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McDonnell said, “Fast-tracking the phase-out of the accelerated sales tax program is sound fiscal policy that will help Virginia businesses grow and create jobs.  I have long said that I want to eliminate this anti-business program as soon as possible and not require any business to make this additional payment.  We have successfully phased out the requirement on 96 percent of Virginia businesses that were mandated to participate in the program, with a goal of having the remaining 4 percent phased out by 2021.  Businesses that no longer have to pay twice in June can now earn interest on those funds, purchase equipment, add inventory and create jobs here in Virginia.”

In 2011, Governor McDonnell signed legislation approved by the General Assembly increasing the sales threshold from $1 million to $5.4 million, relieving more than 7,000 retail dealers of the additional payment requirement.  Legislators agreed in 2010 to end the Accelerated Sales Tax program by June 2021 and to begin the roll-back in fiscal year 2013.  The governor’s proposal moved the start of the phase-out up a year.

The Caboose Budget Bill, which adjusts Commonwealth funding for the remainder of the current biennium, put the program’s phase-out on a faster pace by raising the sales threshold to $26 million, thus reducing the number of businesses required to make the extra payment in June 2012 to 386. That’s a reduction of nearly 96 percent since 2010.  The Caboose Budget Bill included a $50 million reduction in general fund revenues to account for the funds that the dealers will not have to pay in June.

The Department of Taxation has promulgated emergency guidelines to reflect the changes in how the Accelerated Sales Tax program will work.  Check its website at www.tax.virginia.gov for further information.

Governor McDonnell Announces New Virginia Veterans ID Card

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell today launched the new Virginia Veterans ID Card available from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in partnership with the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) during an afternoon event at the McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Richmond.  The card will help thousands of Virginia veterans identify themselves as veterans and obtain retail and restaurant discounts around the state.  The DMV 2 Go mobile office was present to process veterans’ applications for the cards onsite this afternoon.  Governor McDonnell, a U.S. Army veteran who served for a total of 21 years in active duty and reserve roles, visited the mobile office at today’s event and was one of the first to apply for the new ID card. Speaking about the launch of the Virginia Veterans ID Card, Governor McDonnell said, “Virginia is home to 823,000 veterans who have protected and served our great nation.  It is Virginia’s duty to serve them.  The launch of the Virginia Veterans ID card will provide a new state resource to aid in obtaining discounts and other services from the Commonwealth’s retail community, as well as providing convenient identification for Veterans.  This initiative is a perfect example of state agencies working together to assist those individuals who have served and sacrificed for our great nation.  We take seriously our responsibility to provide resources and support to our veterans.  This is an important step towards reaching our goal of making Virginia the ‘most Veteran friendly state in the nation.’”

Currently, retired military and veterans with a service-connected disability rating from the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs are issued ID cards.  These men and women comprise just a fraction of the state’s veteran population.  The remainder of Virginia’s 823,000 veterans have no way to show veteran status other than by presenting their discharge documents.  The new Virginia Veterans ID Card is convenient and fits in a wallet, cutting down on Veterans having to carry the DD 214 military discharge document as identification.

Paul Galanti, Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, added, “Retailers and restaurants across the state offer discounts and other special promotions to veterans and military, especially around Memorial Day and Veterans Day.  This is a winning situation for both veterans and retailers.”

Veterans may apply for the cards in person at any DMV customer service center, DMV 2 Go mobile office, or online at www.dmvNOW.com.  Each applicant needs to present an unexpired Virginia driver’s license or DMV-issued ID card, the veterans ID card application, his or her DD214, DD 256 or WD AGO document, and $10.  The card, which does not expire, will be mailed to the veteran and should arrive within a week.  In the meantime, the temporary veterans ID card received at the time of the in-person application can be used as proof of veteran status.

DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb stated, “We are proud to partner with the Department of Veterans Services to further Governor McDonnell’s vision for more veteran-friendly programs in the Commonwealth.  Most Virginians interact with DMV, whether through our website or by visiting a customer service center.  And when they do, we hope Virginia’s veterans take advantage of this convenient unique service for them.”