Governor McDonnell Announces Banner Year for Transportation in the Commonwealth

More than $2.5 billion worth of projects advertised in 2013

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has advertised an historic amount of transportation projects, more than $2.5 billion worth, in 2013. This includes the estimated cost for engineering, construction and pavement projects, including pavement rehabilitation, across the state. 

“Earlier this year, VDOT made the commitment to advertise more than $2 billion worth of projects this year,” said Governor McDonnell. “I am happy to report they will make good on this promise. More than $2.5 billion of projects have been advertised in calendar year 2013. Our investment in building and maintaining our infrastructure network is of utmost importance to the citizens of Virginia and we are keeping our commitments to them.  The Commonwealth is able to move aggressively ahead on projects because of the bipartisan effort to approve historic transportation funding earlier this year.  Our 2013 transportation bill represents the largest infusion of transportation funding in Virginia more than 25 years and will help create a safe, efficient and reliable transportation system throughout Virginia, while creating thousands of good jobs at the same time, and growing our economy.”

Transportation Secretary Sean T. Connaughton added, “Our citizens will see more crews on the highways working to build and enhance the transportation network they deserve; one that is safe, reliable, and contemporary and that will efficiently move them through the Commonwealth. This historic amount of advertised work is proof that this new and sustainable funding from the transportation bill has enhanced VDOT’s ability to move projects forward and improve the condition of our roads.”

“The funding is being put to work now to improve and rehabilitate aging roads and bridges and to increase capacity, which will enhance safety and ease congestion,” said VDOT Commissioner Greg Whirley. “VDOT worked diligently to get an incredible amount of projects advertised this year so Virginia’s transportation network can move traffic more efficiently, improving the quality of life for all of us.”

Of the more than $2.5 billion, about $545 million will go toward repaving roads and pavement rehabilitation, making the existing infrastructure safer and better to drive on.  The remainder will go toward increasing capacity and other construction.  The amount also covers engineering, which gets projects ready for construction.  

Governor Bob McDonnell Unveils 2015-2016 Budget

Governor Bob McDonnell unveiled the Commonwealth's budget for the next two fiscal years in a morning address to the Joint Money Committees of the General Assembly. The budget, totaling approximately $95.9 billion for the biennium (General Fund: $37.7 billion; Non-General Fund: $58.2 billion), continues the governor's focus on promoting private-sector job creation and growing the Commonwealth's economy in spite of ongoing fiscal uncertainty at the federal level. In addressing the Joint Money Committees, the governor remarked, "We have talked many times about the "Virginia Way" by which we govern.  We analyze and debate budget and policy issues passionately but civilly.  Then we find common ground and solve problems.  The Virginia Way is one of sharing credit for getting positive results for the good of our people.  Eight million people are counting on the Virginia Way continuing!

"This approach is especially important today when my introduced budget is handed off to a governor-elect of a different party.  Accomplishments and progress require statesmanship in both branches of government.  I hope you will find the Virginia Way at work in these budget recommendations.  The major spending recommendations focus on the core public services which lead to prosperity.  They also decrease our reliance on budgetary gimmicks that helped in the past but run counter to structural balance and sound financial judgment.  You will also find a fair amount of embedded caution, given the global economic and national political uncertainty."

The governor concluded his remarks noting, "Over the past four years we have worked together to put the "Virginia Way" to work in building a "Commonwealth of Opportunity" for all Virginians. With your cooperation, we have gotten very good results for our citizens. Unemployment has fallen from 7.4% to 5.6%. Over 172,000 net new jobs have been created, and we are the country's most business friendly state! We passed the first long-term transportation funding plan in a generation. Our colleges and universities are more affordable and accessible, and on the way to issuing 100,000 new degrees for Virginia students. We reduced the future liability in our pension system by $9 billion. We've brought more innovation, accountability, and choice to our K-12 system and rewarded our excellent, hard-working teachers. We've cared for the prisoners, the orphans, the hungry, the mentally ill, and the homeless, as the Scriptures say we must. Today, as I enter my last weeks as governor, I sincerely thank you for your strong partnership, your warm friendship, and your can-do, results-oriented leadership.  By any metric, Virginia is stronger today, and we left the campground better than we found it. Our economy is growing. Our schools, roads, pensions, people, natural resources, and jobs are stronger. Now, as you consider this biennial budget, I ask that you keep this progress going and work with Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe and his team to accomplish even more in the years ahead."

The governor's full remarks can be read here.

General Fund revenue growth of 4.2 percent is expected in fiscal year 2015, with growth of 3.9 percent anticipated in fiscal year 2016

Selected Highlights of the Governor's Biennial Budget:

  • Triples the Rainy Day Fund from beginning of governor's term; Fund will reach $1 billion by 2016
  • Allocates $183.1 million in additional, new higher education funding; Brings new administration investment in Virginia's colleges and universities to nearly $600 million
  • Provides $38.3 million in new funding for mental health priorities
  • Leaves unappropriated balance of $50.9 Million in general fund to provide for greater budget flexibility and latitude for General Assembly and incoming McAuliffe Administration; Largest unappropriated balance since 1991
  • Identifies $261 million in targeted savings
  • Provides for another performance bonus payment of up to 3% for state employees before Christmas 2014; Bonus contingent upon satisfactory employee performance and savings generated at end of current Fiscal Year equal to twice cost of bonus
  • Includes $582.6 million in increased funding in biennium for K-12 and Pre-K
  • Dedicates $16.2 million to cover biennial cost of providing foster care and adoption payments. Includes 3% increase in foster care payment rates; Beginning in FY 2016, provides funds to expand foster care and adoption subsidies to age 21 for the most vulnerable youth
  • Makes available $6.5 million to address study requirements that must be met to allow additional dredging at Norfolk Harbor, as well as for the deepening of the Elizabeth River channel
  • Supplies additional $1.5 Million for Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Fund to encourage private-sector companies to locate along transportation corridors leading to Port
  • Presents additional $196.7 million to fund debt service on all capital projects previously authorized by General Assembly, as well as debt service on select new projects
  • Fully funds pension reform commitment of phasing-in increases to state and teacher retirement contributions to reduce future unfunded liabilities
  • Provides additional $315.3 million for the general fund share of state and teacher pension benefits representing funding at 80 percent of the full pension contribution rates, as well as funding for the 10-year scheduled payback of deferred employee retirement contributions from fiscal years 2011 and 2012.
  • Dedicates $55.3 million To Support Public Safety Efforts; Includes $22.2 million for Sheriffs, Commonwealth's Attorneys, and Circuit Court Clerk Deputies to fund new hires, reduce overcrowding in jails, fund long overdue pay increases, and support other critical operations; Also $21.3 million in additional funding to assist local law enforcement through the "599" program
  • Directs $11 million to the City of Richmond for the development, creation, and enhancement of the Slavery and Freedom Heritage Site
  • Continues governor's commitment to improving Virginia's prisoner re-entry process with $2.8 million in new funding to help prisoners successfully rejoin society; additionally appropriates nearly $450,000 for additional staffing to further streamline and expedite the state's restoration of rights process
  • Ensures $4 million for oyster restoration efforts; $2 million each year of the biennium. Virginia's recent efforts to revitalize the state's historic oyster industry have resulted in 2012 seeing the largest harvest in the Commonwealth since 1987; the oyster industry had an economic impact of $42.6 million last year
  • Dedicates over $31 million from the FY2013 budget surplus to the Water Quality Improvement Fund
  • Provides $7.2 million for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program to provide access to life-saving medications for the treatment of HIV and related illnesses for low-income clients
  • Directs $8 million over the biennium to the Virginia Housing Trust Fund, and $500,000 in additional revenue each year to Virginia's rapid re-housing program, all designed to continue the administration's homelessness prevention and reduction efforts. Over the last four years, overall homelessness in Virginia has declined by 16%

The full budget document is available here.

Governor McDonnell’s Biennial Budget to Continue Commitment to Making College More Affordable and Accessible for Virginia Students

Continuing his administration’s four-year effort to make college more affordable and accessible for Virginia students, Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that his FY 2015/2016 budget will include $183.1 million over the biennium in new support of Virginia’s colleges and universities. The governor’s proposed new funding will help the Commonwealth achieve the goals of the historic “Top Jobs” legislation (Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2011), put forward by McDonnell, that has the state on the path to generating 100,000 additional degrees and certifications over the next 15 years, is reducing the growth of tuition, and enhancing access to higher education. This legislation has also contributed to the creation of 14,000 new slots for incoming students at Virginia schools, and Virginia has recently seen the lowest average yearly increase in tuition in a decade.             Speaking about the new funding for higher education, Governor McDonnell said, “I firmly believe that in order to get a good job, you need a good education. Our 2011 ‘Top Jobs’ legislation had one very clear goal: to increase the accessibility and affordability of higher education here in the Commonwealth. That legislation is working. We have already added 14,000 new undergraduate slots for Virginia students.  We have invested over $400 million in higher education and created a new higher education funding formula based on enrollment growth, initiatives, incentives, research, financial aid, productivity, and other critical goals. And we have put the Commonwealth’s universities on a pathway to awarding 100,000 additional degrees and certifications over the next 15 years. However, in order to remain one of the nation’s premier systems of public higher education, we must continue our commitment to higher education in the fiscal year 2015/2016 budget. We have started a process that is working, now we must invest in it, and, by doing so, invest in our students and Virginia’s economic future. That is why I am proposing another $183.1 million for higher education in this budget. Virginia’s future prosperity depends upon our current commitment to today’s higher education system. We are investing in the future, and we are making Virginia a more vibrant, prosperous and competitive Commonwealth.”

 The governor’s budget will provide the following funding for higher education:

 Approximately $32.4 million will support a variety of higher education-related entities and programs, including:

  • Sufficient funding to raise the Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG) to Virginia residents attending private Virginia colleges and universities from $3,100 to $3,300
  • Nearly $6.1 million in workforce development programs and initiatives through the Virginia Community College System, the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research, New College, the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center, the Roanoke Higher Education Center, and the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center
  • Support for higher education consortiums such as 4-VA Partnership, Center for Advanced Logistics and Virtual Library of Virginia
  • Funding to allow the Jefferson Lab in Newport News to compete for significant new federal infrastructure investment at Virginia’s particle accelerator facility

 Over $150 million will be provided directly to the higher education institutions, consistent with the provisions of the “Top Jobs” Act, with $45 million (30 percent) dedicated to base operations and financial aid, while $105 million (70 percent) is directed towards incentivizing performance.

  • Of the $45 million for base operations and financial aid, $13.5 million is dedicated to base operations and $31.5 million will go to financial aid.  Of the $31.5 million in financial aid, 10 percent will be applied towards graduate financial aid to attract high caliber students to Virginia’s research programs.
  • Of the $105 million given to incentivize performance, $21 million will be provided for enrollment growth, $63 million for incentive funding, and $21 million for research and initiatives in support of the goals of the “Top Jobs” Act.
    • The incentive funding rewards performance of higher education institutions for increasing graduation and retention rates, graduating additional STEM-H students needed to keep our economy competitive, and attracting students of all socio-economic levels to higher education.
    • Also included in the funding for research is $2 million over the biennium for cancer research at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU); $2 million for cancer research at the University of Virginia (UVA); $3.3 million for brain research at Virginia Tech; $2 million for ultrasound research on movement disorders at UVA; $1.95 million to support the Center for Bioelectrics at Old Dominion University (ODU); and $1.3 million for Parkinson’s Disease research at VCU.

 Higher Education Accomplishments During McDonnell Administration

  • Reduced tuition increases at Virginia’s colleges and universities to the lowest average yearly increase in a decade (from nearly 10% average during 2000-2010 to 4% in 2012)
  • Reformed higher education to generate 100,000 new degrees by 2025 focusing on STEM through “Top Jobs of the 21st Century” legislation in 2011; colleges and universities have already enrolled an additional 14,000 in-state undergraduates
  • Invested over $400 million in new money in higher education and created new higher education funding formula based on enrollment growth, initiatives, incentives, research, financial aid, productivity, and other critical goals
  • Implemented and secured funding for Old Dominion University’s MonarchTeach which will afford aspiring STEM teachers an opportunity to engage in clinical/field experience during their first year of college
  • Established the Governor’s Center for Excellence in teaching at George Mason University
  • Established a school and campus safety week to raise awareness and highlight the importance of all-hazards preparedness on school and college campuses
  • Implemented requirement for university specific strategic plans and efficiency goals to reduce overhead
  • Ensured in-state tuition for a larger population family members of active military, and members of the National Guard; including passage of landmark legislation providing in-state tuition to all veterans
  • Expanded non-credit funding in the 2012-14 biennial budget for community college workforce training and services to 9,463 businesses annually
  • Expanded use of higher education equipment trust fund to provide pre-employment and incumbent workforce training through community college and non-credit programs
  • Launched the state’s first workforce development report card that provides state and regional data on outcomes in the areas of STEM-H pipeline development, college and career readiness, secondary and postsecondary credential attainment, employment, and training capacity
  • Expanded the role of the Virginia Workforce Council to advise the governor on leadership and administration of more than 25 career and technical education and workforce programs targeted to Virginians from middle school to retirement age

Governor McDonnell Proclaims December 9th-13th School and Campus Safety Week in Virginia

Governor Will Hold Campus Safety Event at VCU on December 11th 

Declares December 13th as a Day of Mourning in the Commonwealth to Remember Those Lost at Sandy Hook Elementary

 

RICHMOND - Citing the critical importance of maintaining safe environments for learning at Virginia’s schools and campuses, Governor Bob McDonnell has proclaimed the week of December 9-13 as School and Campus Safety Week in the Commonwealth. 

To mark School and Campus Safety Week, the governor will speak to students and state and local officials at a special event at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Student Commons Theater on December 11 at 10:30 a.m.  The event will also feature remarks by VCU President Michael Rao, the University’s Associate Provost Charles Klink, and VCU student Brendan Hood.

The governor has also declared December 13th as a Day of Mourning and called for a moment of silence and reflection at 9:30 a.m. on that day to honor those innocent students and teachers who lost their lives in the tragic events at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, last December.

The governor’s proclamation touches upon the work of Virginia’s School and Campus Safety Taskforce, appointed by the governor in the wake of the killings at Sandy Hook Elementary School, and mentions the positive changes that have resulted from the group’s 61 recommendations.  The proclamation also states that “…protecting the more than 1.3 million students in Virginia’s schools is a top priority of state government…,” and  “…we must continue to ensure our law enforcement officials and school administrators have the necessary tools to combat any potential violence.”

Many of the Taskforce members will be in attendance when the Governor speaks at VCU on December 11th, as will Virginia’s Secretaries of Education, Javaid Siddiqi, and Public Safety, Bryan Rhode.

The governor’s full proclamation can be read here: http://www.governor.virginia.gov/OurCommonwealth/Proclamations/viewproc.cfm?id=452.

 

Governor McDonnell Announces Major Step Forward in Widening I-64 from Richmond to Newport News

Final Environmental Impact Statement Approved by Federal Government

Governor’s 2013 Transportation Bill Provides Funding to Begin the Widening with Section of I-64 in Newport News 

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell announced today a significant development to ease congestion and increase safety on I-64 in the Hampton Roads and Richmond regions.  The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has signed the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS), which supports the future widening of 75 miles of I-64 from I-95 in Richmond to I-664 in Hampton.  As a result of new transportation funding passed by the General Assembly earlier this year, about $100 million is currently now available to widen a section of I-64 in Newport News. 

“The signing of the FEIS is a critical step toward advancing improvements to highly traveled and congested areas of I-64 for commuters and travelers alike,” said Governor McDonnell.  “The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) worked diligently with the public, localities and the FHWA to get environmental work to a pivotal stage.  Most importantly, because of the historic transportation funding package passed this year with bipartisan support, we now have the funding available to move past studies and into actual construction. It has been a long time since Virginia had the resources necessary to begin projects of this size and scope. We are now on the way to beginning the process of widening I-64 between Richmond and Newport News, saving drivers time and money on one of the most highly-traveled roads in Virginia.”

The FEIS identifies an alternative that allows adding lanes to a 75 mile stretch of I-64 between Hampton and Richmond.  The decision on whether to widen inside the median or outside the existing roadway would be made on a section-by-section basis and closely coordinated with localities.  Sections of roadway will be improved as funding is made available. 

Currently, $100 million is programmed to widen five miles of I-64 from Jefferson Avenue to Fort Eustis Boulevard in Newport News.  This section would be widened by one lane and a shoulder in each direction, increasing capacity for nearly 100,000 vehicles that drive this section of roadway every day.

Next steps require the Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization to include the funding for this segment in their Transportation Improvement and Long Range plans.  The FHWA will then issue a Record of Decision (ROD) on the segment following the update of the planning documents, which is expected by early next year.  The ROD provides approval for the funded segment.  VDOT is aggressively pursuing a design build advertisement by mid-2014. 

“By completing the FEIS, the Commonwealth is making incredible strides to meet serious transportation needs along heavily congested and traveled areas of  I-64,” said  Transportation Secretary Sean T. Connaughton.  “We’re getting off to a good start by directing some of the new transportation funds to get the first segment widened.”

VDOT Commissioner Greg Whirley added, “The federal approval follows several months of public review and input in addition to support by localities.  Moving forward, VDOT will continue to work closely with the public and localities on I-64 improvements.”

For more background information on the study, go to the following link: http://www.virginiadot.org/projects/hamptonroads/i-64_peninsula_study.asp.

 

Statement of Speaker William J. Howell on Mark Obenshain's Request for a Recount

RICHMOND, VA - Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford) issued the following statement on Mark Obenshain's decision to request a recount: “Mark Obenshain's decision to request a recount in the historically close election for Attorney General is the right one. Like many others, I have heard concerns from voters across the Commonwealth that in a race separated by seven one thousandths of a percent, we must take extra care to ensure an accurate result. I cannot imagine a more appropriate use of Virginia’s recount laws. We must eliminate any potential lingering errors in the vote tabulation and give close scrutiny to questions raised in the certification process by the State Board of Elections Chairman Charlie Judd. The people of Virginia should have complete confidence that every legitimate vote has been counted.

“It is likely that we could see the vote margin in a recount change by more than the current margin of 165 votes, as 2.2 million ballots are recounted. Regardless of the outcome, a recount will serve to further legitimize the process by which the votes are counted and Virginia's next Attorney General is elected. A recount is the responsible and right thing to do.

"The civility and integrity we have seen from Mark is a testament to the Virginia Way. The focus of this reexamination of the ballots should be thorough, civil, and with an eye towards ensuring accuracy in the final result.”

Governor McDonnell Issues Thanksgiving Day Proclamation

RICHMOND - In advance of Thursday’s holiday, Governor Bob McDonnell today issued an official proclamation recognizing November 28th as Thanksgiving Day in Virginia.  The Governor’s proclamation is below and can be found online here.

 THANKSGIVING DAY

WHEREAS, the first permanent English speaking settlement in the New World was established in Virginia at Jamestown in 1607, as Captain John Smith led a group of settlers across the Atlantic on a voyage that would entail much hardship over the coming years, including disease and starvation; and

WHEREAS, to show their appreciation for the colony's success and to take stock and give thanks for their own gifts and blessings, and in spite of tremendous adversity, the settlers in Virginia found time to celebrate the first Thanksgiving in America at Berkeley Plantation on December 4, 1619; and

WHEREAS, a state historical marker commemorating “The first English Thanksgiving in Virginia” was dedicated on November 1, 2013 and was placed along Route 5 just west of the entrance to Berkeley Plantation in Charles City County; the marker states that on December 4, 1619, the ship Margaret arrived in Virginia carrying “Capt. John Woodlief, a member of the Virginia Company, with 35 men to take charge of Berkeley Hundred,” and Capt. John Woodlief “bore instructions that the day of his ship's arrival ‘be yearly and perpetually kept holy as a day of thanksgiving to almighty God’”; and

WHEREAS, while reflecting upon the actions taken by the colonists at the first Thanksgiving, we also honor the Indian peoples, for without their presence, the survival of the colonists would have been ever more difficult; and

WHEREAS, American leaders and citizens have recognized a day of Thanksgiving since our first president, George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving proclamation in 1789, stating “it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly implore His protection and favor”; and

WHEREAS, it is a Virginia tradition for our citizens to come together in unity on Thanksgiving Day and give thanks for the great level of serenity, harmony and abundance with which we, as citizens of a free nation, have been blessed; the rule of law by which we peaceably govern ourselves and by which our civil and religious liberties are guaranteed; and the brave servicemen and women of our armed forces who risk their lives to defend the freedoms and blessings we cherish;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert F. McDonnell, do hereby recognize November 28, 2013 as A DAY OF THANKSGIVING in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens; and

FURTHERMORE, I encourage all Virginians to give thanks to our Creator for our plentiful blessings, including the rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as well as the unwavering strength of our families and communities.

 

Virginia Posts 5.4% Revenue Decrease in October

– Not a Significant Month for Revenue –

Minimal Growth in Withholding Most Likely Result of Federal Government Shutdown

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that October revenue collections decreased by 5.4 percent from October of last year. October is not a significant month for revenue collections. On a year-to-date basis, total revenue collections rose 0.6 percent through October, trailing the annual forecast of 1.5 percent growth. Adjusting for the accelerated sales tax program and the 0.125 percent sales tax transfer required by last session’s historic transportation bill, total revenues grew 1.6 percent through October, trailing the adjusted forecast of 2.7 percent growth.

The decrease in October revenue was driven by declines in corporate, sales and recordation taxes, along with an increase in individual refunds. Collections of payroll withholding taxes only grew by 0.5% in October, with the weakness in growth most likely attributable to the federal government shutdown. Sales and use tax receipts fell by 1.7%, but that number reflects sales in September, prior to the federal government shutdown. Any potential impact of the shutdown on sales in Virginia would be reflected in the upcoming November revenue report.

 Speaking about the October numbers, Governor Bob McDonnell noted, “Over the last four years we’ve worked together in Richmond to find common ground and put in place policies that will spur private sector job creation and economic growth. Those policies have gotten results. 158,000 new private sector jobs have been created in Virginia, and our unemployment rate has fallen from 7.4% to 5.8%, the lowest rate in the Southeast. However, despite our work in the Commonwealth, we increasingly face headwinds that while not of our making, are having a detrimental impact on our people and our economy. The federal government continues to fail at the most basic of functions, including most recently failing at just the simple act of remaining open. This is having a direct impact on the finances of Virginia’s residents and our state government. We must continue to take prudent and proactive steps in our state government to help prepare the Commonwealth for the continued uncertainty that lies ahead. I look forward to working with the incoming administration of Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe to ensure that there is continuity in the successful bipartisan efforts that have helped make Virginia a national economic leader, even in these difficult times.”

            The October revenue numbers are available at this link: http://www.finance.virginia.gov/KeyDocuments/RevenueReports/MasterReportsList.cfm

The Virginia Nurses Foundation Recognizes Delegate Peace for his Legislative Service

-- Peace Recognized as a Friend of Nursing at 2013 Gala -- 

Central, VA –The Virginia Nurses Foundation (VNF) recently named Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) as a VNF Friend of Nursing at their 2013 Gala.  This award acknowledges Peace’s sponsorship of legislation that protects nurses working in Virginia correctional centers.

This award follows the successful passage of HB 2065 during the 2013 General Assembly session.  Peace’s bill protects the Department of Corrections (DOC) contractors, such as nurses and other medical practitioners which are directly engaged in the care, treatment, or supervision of persons in the Department of Corrections’ custody from assault.

Assaulting a DOC contractor will now be a Class 6 felony, with a six-month mandatory minimum; the same penalty for assaulting a DOC employee.  Previously, it was a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Speaking about the award, “I am proud to have supported legislation which protects nurses working to provide needed health care services in the DOC system.  It is an honor to be recognized by VNF,” stated Peace.

According to their website, the Virginia Nurses Association (VNA) established the Virginia Nurses Foundation to continue programs of support and innovation for nurses and nursing in the Commonwealth.  The mission of the VNA is to promote advocacy and education for registered nurses to advance professional practice and influence the delivery of quality care

Peace’s commitment to the successful passage of HB 2065 supports one of the VNA’s primary goals – to ensure a positive legislative and regulatory climate for nursing practice.

To learn more about VNA please visit: http://www.virginianurses.com

Howell: Washington must do business differently

Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates William J. Howell (R-Stafford) released the following statement on the end of the government shutdown: "I am very pleased to see that leaders in Washington have come to an agreement that ends the government shutdown. This is a solution to a problem that should have never existed. For the last three weeks, we have seen the worst of Washington-style politics on display. Problem solving took a back seat to partisan bickering. Cable news shows became more important than solutions.

"And while this deal does address the government shut down and the debt ceiling, it does not come anywhere close to tackling our long-term fiscal and economic challenges. Our nation is nearly $17 trillion in debt. Congressional leaders and the President haven't agreed on a real budget in years. Millions of Americans are still out of work. If we are going to solve these problems, Washington must do business differently.

"The contrast between Washington and Richmond could not be clearer. In Virginia, we've found that cutting back on the rhetoric and working together leads to better results. This is the Virginia way.

"Virginia has produced four-straight budget surpluses totaling $2 billion. Our rainy-day fund is on track to exceed $1 billion. This year we passed a comprehensive transportation reform bill that will reduce congestion and create jobs across the Commonwealth.

"I encourage our leaders in Washington, both Republicans and Democrats, to find  a new approach to governing that focuses on results, not politics."

Governor McDonnell Launches Adoption Social Media Campaign: #IHeartAdoption

RICHMOND – Due to the success of the #100Kids100Days campaign, Governor Bob McDonnell is launching a new social media effort aimed at increasing support for adoption in Virginia.  The new campaign, #IHeartAdoption, will feature photos of adoption supporters telling Virginia why they support adoption.
 
To participate, Virginians should print out the template, fill in why they support adoption and email a JPEG photo to VAdopts@governor.virginia.gov.  People can also participate by posting their photo to Twitter and Facebook using the hashtag #IHeartAdoption.  Submissions could be included on the Virginia Adopts website, Facebook, Twitter or other promotional material.  Click here to download the template. 
 
            Speaking about the new social media campaign, Governor McDonnell commented, “Facebook and Twitter have been an integral part of getting the word out about our Virginia Adopts initiative.  We saw enormous success on social media with #100Kids100Days, including kids being matched because of the awareness raised through the #100Kids100Days campaign.  Through #IHeartAdoption we hope to bring even greater awareness to the 1,000 kids in foster care today in Virginia that need a forever home.  Today we are launching our new social media campaign, #IHeartAdoption, to encourage all Virginians to join us in sharing with their friends and followers on Facebook and Twitter why they support adoption.”
 
For more information about the “Campaign for 1,000” please view the Governor’s video message and visit http://www.virginiaadopts.virginia.gov/. 

Governor McDonnell Announces Blueprint for Administration’s Final 100 Days

“Sprint to the Finish” Focuses on Securing Additional Positive Results for Virginians Over Last 3 Months
Governor Will Introduce Next Biennial Budget; Implement Education Reforms; Continue to Prioritize Restoration of Rights Efforts; Streamline State Government
 
NEW YORK CITY- With exactly 100 days remaining in the gubernatorial administration of Governor Bob McDonnell, the governor today announced a “Sprint to the Finish” final 100 days plan that aims to continue the administration’s successes in improving the quality of life of all Virginians and building a “Commonwealth of Opportunity.” Over the course of the last four years the Administration has worked with the General Assembly to successfully achieve Virginia’s first major transportation funding plan in over a generation, add 14,000 new slots for in-state undergraduate students at Virginia’s colleges and universities, put more education dollars into the classroom and initiated significant k-12 education reforms, strengthen Virginia’s pension system, and work with the private sector to help put in place policies that have helped drop Virginia’s unemployment rate from 7.4% in January 2010 to 5.8% today, the lowest unemployment rate in the Southeast. Now, the governor is laying out a number of initiatives and goals for the administration to focus on in the final months of his time in office. The governor made the announcement while on his annual visit to bond rating firms in New York City where he, along with legislators and administration officials, will discuss Virginia’s fiscal standing and financial outlook moving forward.
 
Speaking about the “Sprint to the Finish” blueprint for the final 100 days, the governor remarked, “This has been an administration focused on getting results for the people. Through bipartisan cooperation and policy innovation, that is what we’ve done. Virginia now has the transportation funding plan that we were lacking for over 20 years. Since we took office, the state unemployment rate has fallen to 5.8%, lowest in the Southeast, and 158,000 net new private sector jobs have been created in the Commonwealth. Our education reforms have introduced increased compensation and accountability for our teachers, expanded educational choices for our students, and put more money in the classroom, not in bureaucracy. Our colleges and universities are more affordable and accessible. Agricultural exports, tourism revenue, and wine sales are all at record highs. This is a record of results that is a bipartisan achievement. Now, as we reach the final 100 days of our time in office, our focus will remain the same: getting results for the people of Virginia.”
 
The governor continued, “Over these final 100 days Virginians will continue to see results in Richmond. We will introduce the Commonwealth’s next biennial budget, laying out the state’s fiscal framework for the next two years and continuing our tradition of budgeting conservatively and investing wisely in the core functions of government most essential to job creation and economic growth. We will implement the major education reforms we passed last session, with Virginia schools converting to an ‘A-F’ grading scale, the board and head of the Opportunity Educational Institution being selected, pay raises and strategic compensation for teachers moving forward, and recommendations received from our newly-created Governor’s Teachers Cabinet.
 
He concluded, “We will continue our commitment to restoring, automatically, the rights of Virginians who have paid their dues and deserve to regain the fundamental and basic right to vote and participate fully in our democracy. We will host our fourth ‘Governor’s Energy Conference’ and continue to look for all means by which we can further establish Virginia as ‘The Energy Capital of the East Coast.’ Virginians will continue to see new road projects getting underway all across the Commonwealth as our historic transportation funding bill brings long overdue resources to our transportation system, saving Virginia motorists time and money. And, finally, we will work in partnership with the incoming gubernatorial administration to ensure a seamless and smooth transition of power in keeping with the very best of the Virginia tradition. This is a ‘Sprint to the Finish’, and I look forward to it. Washington D.C. may not work, but Richmond does, and this administration will continue to work hard until the clock strikes noon on Saturday, January 11th.”
 
“Sprint to the Finish”:  Major Objectives for the Final 100 Days of the McDonnell Administration
 
1. Reform State Government
            A. Successfully combine DMBE and DBA into a single, efficient agency
B. Eliminate additional pages of unnecessary, burdensome regulations through the Governor’s regulatory reform initiative
C.  Further streamline state government by consolidating Virginia’s Intergovernmental Affairs office
 
2. Improve Virginia’s Schools
            A.  Bring A – F school grading system to all Virginia localities
            B.  Establish Strategic Compensation for teachers
            D.  Receive recommendations of the Governor’s Teacher Cabinet
 
3. Protect and Help All Virginians
            A. Continue goal offinding adoptive homes for 1000of Virginia’s longest waiting children
            B. Sign Executive Directive to step up Virginia’s ongoing fight against human trafficking
 
4. Strengthen Democracy
A. Continue torestore rights of more Virginiansin keeping with Governor’s announcement of an automatic restoration of rights, on an individualized basis, process for non-violent offenders
B. Provide an orderly, efficient experience at the ballot box for the 2013 General Election by ensuring a vastly shorter wait at polling places
 
5.  Make Higher Education More Affordable and Accessible
A. Receive input from the Higher Education Advisory Committee and issue a new higher education funding formula to incentivize the goals of the governor’s higher education policies
B. Increase the state’s commitment to higher education funding through the biennial budget development process.
 
6. Bring More New Jobs to Virginia
A. Secure landmark deals in areas like film, tourism, and agriculture to grow those sectors and bring more jobs to Virginia in the last 100 days of the governor’s term
B. Attract new investment in modeling and simulation, cyber security, and other technology sectors in the Commonwealth
C. Receive and publish the Commonwealth’s long term cyber security plan
 
7.  Further Establish Virginia as “The Energy Capital of the East Coast”
A. Recognize Dominion’s execution of the first wind energy lease off the coast of Virginia; second nationally
B.  Host the 4th Governor’s Energy Conference during Governor McDonnell’s term
C. Increase the number of alternative fuel vehicles in the state fleet via the public-private partnership put in place by the administration
D. Continue to fight overreaching EPA regulations that deter job growing policies and energy development in Virginia
 
8. Reduce Congestion and Improve Virginia’s Transportation System
            B. Establish regional planning groups contemplated in the 2013 transportation package
 
9. Develop Strategic, Balanced Biennial Budget for the Commonwealth
A. Introduce in December a biennial budget that continues to invest wisely in the core functions of Virginia’s state government
B. Continue historic investments in the Rainy Day Fund, the Virginia Retirement System, Virginia’s K-12 system, higher education, and Medicaid reforms
 
10.  Partner with the Incoming Administration for a Seamless Transition of Power
A. Facilitate a seamless transition to the next gubernatorial administration
 

Governor McDonnell Announces “Virginia Adopts: Campaign for 1,000” Reaches Major Milestone

More than 800 children adopted or matched so far in 2013
16 of 20 longest waiting kids have been matched with families; Including longest waiting child who had been waiting over 16 years
 
RICHMOND- Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that since January more than 800 children from Virginia’s foster care system have been adopted or matched with a family who is going through the process of adopting.  The announcement continues the focus Governor McDonnell has placed on foster care and adoption since the launch of the “Virginia Adopts: Campaign for 1,000” in May.
 
Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McDonnell said, “We are shining a light on some of the most vulnerable Virginians: kids who, through no fault of their own, do not have a family to count on for love and support.  Children of all ages need a committed family, but the statistics on children who age out of the foster care system are particularly staggering. 94 percent will never finish college and many will be homeless within a year.  I commend Secretary Kelly and the many dedicated Department of Social Services employees who champion this cause day in and day out and who have worked tirelessly to reach this milestone.”
 
As a result of this Campaign, 16 of the 20 longest waiting youth are among the 800 children who have been adopted or matched with families.  One of the longest waiting children who was recently matched had been in the foster care system for over 16 years and was eligible for adoption for 14 years.  Speaking about the longest waiting youth, Commissioner Margaret Schultze of the Virginia Department of Social Services said, “We are happy that the ‘Campaign for 1,000’ has brought attention to these children who are without a long-term, loving family.  The spotlight the Governor brings to this issue increases our chances to find parents and families.”
 
In May, Governor McDonnell launched the “Virginia Adopts: Campaign for 1,000” from the steps of the Governor’s Mansion.  Former First Lady Anne Holton joined Governor McDonnell at the launch.  In late July, the Campaign held informational rallies in nine localities.  More than 900 participants attended these events where potential adoptive parents learned more about children waiting for adoption. These events were supported by Casey Family Programs, a national foundation working to improve foster care, which has supplied funding and support to the Campaign.
 
One hundred available children have been profiled in the Campaign’s first social media program: “100 Kids, 100 Days,” which highlighted an individual child’s picture and biographical data each day since July.  Secretary of the Commonwealth Janet Kelly, who spearheads the Campaign for 1,000 on behalf of the Administration, stated, “We are encouraged by the success of the ‘100 Kids, 100 Days’ program, which has received tremendous exposure online. Many people have told us they learned about children waiting for families through Twitter and Facebook, and some parents have come forward specifically for children we profiled.  For kids waiting for an adoptive family, these efforts create opportunities for a forever home.”
 
The Campaign’s next social media efforts will highlight Virginians’ support for adoption and provide a focus on foster children who are 16 years and older.  These teenagers who are approaching the age of 18 are most at risk of aging out of the foster care system without being matched with a permanent family. 
 
The Campaign for 1,000 leverages $1.5 million in new funding that is dedicated to extreme recruitment, general recruitment, and post adoptive services.  Secretary of Health and Human Services Dr. Bill Hazel stated, “Initial grants were recently awarded, and will help greatly with our efforts to find permanent homes for foster children.  As soon as the goal of matching 1,000 children is met, the focus will shift to those that have become available for adoption in recent months, since about 40 new children become available for adoption each month in Virginia.  Our goal is to surpass the number of children waiting with a pool of parents who want to adopt out of the foster care system.”
 
Secretary Kelly said, “Finding 1,000 permanent homes for children in our foster care system has been an ambitious undertaking, and we are learning a great deal about the system and the challenges that these children face in becoming adopted.  We are excited about the new attention the campaign brings to these children, but we want to work on solidifying Virginia’s commitment to these children in the weeks and months ahead.  We still have a lot of work to do.”
 
For more information about the "Campaign for 1,000" please view the Governor's video message and visit http://www.virginiaadopts.virginia.gov/.
 

Virginia Society for Human Life PAC Endorses Delegate Christopher K. Peace

Central Virginia – The Virginia Society for Human Life PAC today endorsed the re-election of Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) to the Virginia House of Delegates. Peace’s legislative voting record was reviewed by the PAC prior to their endorsement.  In the endorsement letter received by Peace the PAC asserted, “In the tradition of Virginia’s own Thomas Jefferson, who wrote “The care of human life and happiness, and not destruction, is the chief and only legitimate object of good government.”

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the VSHL PAC.  I have worked to pass legislation that protects the unborn, such as “Conner’s Law,” which makes it a crime to injure or kill an unborn child during an attack on the mother.  I have supported measures to protect the rights of parents to be involved with their children’s lives when it comes to such issues as education and medical decisions.  I will continue to work to implement policies that make the 97th District the best place to live, work and raise a family.”  stated Peace.

The purpose of VSHL PAC is to further the aims of VSHL in promoting the respect and protection of human life through political means.  The PAC goal is to help identify candidates for political office who respect human life.  Unlike their 501 C 4 and 501 C 3 organizations, the PAC is at liberty to freely disseminate information about specific political candidates and educate voters as to who really is the prolife candidate.  They do, however, restrict their issues to the prolife issue.

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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Forbes.com Names Virginia America’s “Best State for Business”

~ Commonwealth Ranked 2nd in 2010, 2011, 2012 ~
Virginia Only State to Rank in Top Five in Four of Study’s Six Categories
Forbes.com: “The U.S. economy continues to sputter along with an outlook that is cloudy….. But pockets of the U.S. are primed for growth thanks to pro-business regulatory environments, educated workforces and reasonable business costs. Leading the way is Virginia….”
 
 
RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell today announced that Forbes.com has named Virginia America’s “Best State for Business.” The Commonwealth reclaims the title after being awarded the No. 2 ranking from 2010-2012.  Virginia finished in the top five in four of the study’s six categories, the only state with such a strong across-the-board showing.
 
            Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McDonnell said, “Virginia is the best state in America for business. Our desirable business climate continues to be recognized by prestigious, independent third parties like Forbes.com, and we are thrilled to regain the No. 1 spot as “Best State for Business.” This award is a great testament to the Commonwealth’s transportation infrastructure, education system, skilled workforce, regulatory environment and excellent quality of life, all of which lead to strong economic growth.  Since taking office we have worked across party lines to bring people together to put in place policies that spur private-sector job creation. We have invested wisely in the core functions of government most essential to Virginia’s future, from our world class colleges and universities to our K-12 system; from our economic development programs to our transportation infrastructure. Today, unemployment is down and more Virginians are working. This announcement is a further demonstration that Virginia is leading the nation forward in this economic recovery. We are demonstrating how we can work together in government to provide the infrastructure and resources the private-sector needs to grow and create the great paying jobs Virginians deserve.”
 
North Dakota was ranked second by Forbes.com, followed by Utah, North Carolina, and Colorado. Nebraska, Texas, Minnesota, Washington and Georgia rounded out the top 10 list.
 
The Forbes.com ranking considers states’ business costs (cost of labor, energy, and taxes), labor supply (educational attainment, net migration, and projected population growth), regulatory environment (regulatory and tort environment, incentives, and bond ratings), economic climate (job, income, and gross state product growth, as well as unemployment and corporate headquarter relocations), growth prospects (projected job, income, and gross state product growth, as well as announced business openings and closings), and quality of life (index of schools, health, crime, cost of living, and poverty rates).
 
            Virginia placed first in regulatory environment; second in labor supply; fourth in quality of life; fifth in economic climate; 17th in growth prospects; and 22nd in business costs.
 
According to Forbes.com, “A diverse economy, strong workforce and pro-business regulatory climate propels the Old Dominion state to the No. 1 ranking. Virginia ranks first among the states in the regulatory category because of its business-friendly government policies and strong incentive offerings. The tort system is one of the best in the country for businesses, according to the Mercatus Center’s “Freedom in the 50 States.”
 
The full rankings can be found HERE.

King William Teacher Appointed to Governor's Teacher Cabinet

-- Delegate Peace proud to support nomination of Mrs. Connie Plum's Appointment to the Governor's Teacher Cabinet --

Central Virginia - Governor Bob McDonnell today announced the members of his Governor's Teacher Cabinet.  Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) applauds the Governor's choice of Connie Plum.  Mrs. Plum teaches Advanced Placement US History and US Government at King William High School.

The Governor's Teacher Cabinet includes teachers from every Superintendent Region in the Commonwealth.  The Cabinet was created by the Governor's Executive Order Number Sixty Three. It is scheduled to have its first meeting later this month, and will submit an interim report with initial recommendations by November 15, 2013.

Speaking in support of Mrs. Plum's appointment, Delegate Peace stated, "Mrs. Plum is a lifelong educator, with thirty years of service to the educational needs of our students and families.  She has experience at all levels, ranging from the implementation of a preschool early childhood autism program to middle school, high school, AP courses, and IB courses.  She is well liked by students, staff and parents, serves as a mentor that encourages students to apply themselves fully and achieve at high levels. She leads her students by example, with high expectations for their success."

Peace continued, "Mrs. Plum will be a strong voice for her colleagues as she advises the Governor McDonnell and the Secretary of Education on procedures, policies, and regulations directly affecting the classroom so that we can ensure the best possible learning experiences and opportunities for our students."

The Commonwealth has a top-ranked K-12 education system and world class teachers, but to continue this tradition of excellence we must constantly look for new and innovative ways to elevate our teacher workforce and prepare our children for the 21st Century economy.

The Governor's Teachers Cabinet will play a pivotal role in advising the administration about new strategies and ideas to enhance teacher quality and professionalism, increase parent and community involvement, reduce administrative burden, and close the achievement gap.  Virginia teachers know what works and what doesn't; this Cabinet will allow policy makers to hear directly from them.  Policy and program recommendations from those directly impacted in the classroom will work to strengthen Virginia's public school system.

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