Letter from Speaker Howell to Governor McAuliffe regarding the status of the General Assembly

August 27, 2015

Dear Governor McAuliffe,

I am writing to inform you that the Virginia General Assembly remains in session pursuant to your July 16, 2015 call for a special session, House Joint Resolution 5001 and Article IV, Section 6 of the Constitution of Virginia.

As you know, the General Assembly reconvened on Monday, August 17 at your call to address the U.S. Eastern District Court’s ruling in Page v. Va. State Board of Elections et. al. The House of Delegates convened at 11:00 a.m. to begin the redistricting process, despite a strong belief that the defendants should have the opportunity to fully litigate their appeal. The Senate of Virginia convened at 12:00 p.m.

The House of Delegates recessed at 3:12 p.m. on August 17 to allow the House Committee on Privileges & Elections to hold a public hearing and solicit citizen input on potential redistricting plans. The House Majority Leader stated on the floor that the House intended to reconvene before September 1 to continue work on redistricting. The House stands in recess subject to my call pursuant to House Joint Resolution 5001, which passed both chambers unanimously.

Shortly thereafter, the Senate of Virginia attempted to adjourn sine die. Despite requests by Senate Majority Leader Norment for an explanation, Lt. Governor Northam offered none when he ruled incorrectly that the Senate could adjourn sine die without the concurrence of the House.

The Constitution of Virginia is clear, unambiguous, and emphatic: “Neither house shall, without the consent of the other, adjourn to another place, nor for more than three days.” The language in Virginia’s Constitution can be traced back more than 150 years and similar clauses are found in the constitutions of nearly every state.

Virginia’s 1776 Constitution specifically provided that either house could adjourn unilaterally. This provisionwas changed in 1830. The primary author of Virginia’s current constitution, Professor A.E. Dick Howard notes in his commentaries the provision has remained substantively unchanged since then and that the constitutions of nearly every other state, and the U.S. Constitution, contain similar provisions. Mason’s Manual of Legislative Procedure also contains a similar provision.

The attempt by Senators in your party to adjourn without the concurrence of the House of Delegates is a plain violation of the Constitution. The Senate simply cannot adjourn sine die without the concurrence of the House, which the House has not offered. Therefore, the General Assembly remains in session.

Several state supreme courts have concluded that neither house can adjourn sine die without the concurrence of the other. The Alabama Supreme Court has reached this conclusion repeatedly, In re Opinion of the Justices, 47 So.2d 642 (1950); In re Opinion of the Justices, 257 So.2d 336 (1972); Alabama Citizens Action Program v. Kennamer, 479 So.2d 1237 (1985). A majority of the justices of the Florida Supreme Court concluded that such an adjournment was improper in Joyner v. Florida House, 163 So.2d 503 (2015).

Moreover, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court concluded in Frame v. Sutherland, 327 A.2d 623 (1974) that one chamber of the legislature could not adjourn without the concurrence of the other. In that case, the Governor attempted to make “interim” appointments which were challenged in court by members of the legislature. The Court found that such appointments would only be valid if the Senate had finally adjourned. However, the Court held that "the Senate's attempt to adjourn sine die failed because of the absence of consent by the House of Representatives. Our holding rests on a conclusion that the Constitution prohibits either house from adjourning sine die without the consent of the other." The Court ultimately invalidated all of the Governor’s attempted appointments that were challenged.

Several official opinions of state attorneys general reach the same conclusion. The Minnesota attorney general concluded in 1986 that “final adjournment 'of the legislature' like other actions of 'the legislature' requires the action of both houses to be complete.” The Michigan attorney general wrote in 1937 that an attempt by the State Senate to adjourn “was unconstitutional because the House did not concur[.]” Official opinions in Idaho and Iowa are the same.

Based on the joint procedural resolution agreed to by all members of both the Virginia House of Delegates and the Senate of Virginia, the plain language of the Constitution of Virginia and a review of relevant case law and legal opinions, it is without question that the General Assembly remains in session.

Sincerely, William J. Howell

Republicans escalate fight with McAuliffe over Supreme Court judge

Senate Democrats unconstitutionally attempted to adjourn the 2015 Special Session Monday at the direction of Governor McAuliffe, defying a federal court ruling and ending any opportunity of a legislative remedy on redistricting. However, as Speaker Howell and Senator Norment stated Tuesday, the General Assembly remains in session, leaving the Governor without the power to make interim judicial appointments and calling into question any legal rulings made subsequent to that appointment. From the Washington Post:

Republicans on Wednesday warned Gov. Terry McAuliffe that his plan to reappoint the Virginia Supreme Court justice at the center of a toxic political showdown could subject her rulings to legal challenge. ...But Republicans said McAuliffe’s actions could not only cloud Roush’s tenure but also give aggrieved litigants reason to challenge her authority on the bench. A University of Virginia law professor and the principal draftsman of the current version of the state constitution agrees with them. ... They argued that only the Senate adjourned and the House is still technically in session — so McAuliffe’s power to make appointments does not kick in.

The situation is unheard of in Virginia, making the legal questions murky, but some believe that chaos could ensue. A.E. Dick Howard, the U-Va. law professor, said if Republicans challenged McAuliffe’s authority to reappoint Roush, her judicial opinions could be in doubt.

“That would be sticky,” he said. “Presumably, the authority of that judge to preside over cases would be called into question.” L. Steven Emmert, a lawyer based in Virginia Beach and publisher of Virginia Appellate News & Analysis, called the predicament “a mess largely without precedent.”

If a court eventually rules that Roush’s appointment was improper, he said: “I would expect losing litigants to pounce on it.” That Roush’s current term on the bench expires in mid-September, in the middle of a week-long session of the Supreme Court, only adds to the questions, Emmert said.

“What happens to folks who have arguments [that day]? Who’s going to be sitting there, if anybody? Who will decide if there’s a legal challenge to who’s entitled to that seat?” he said.

Governor McAuliffe and Senate Democrats had no explanation Wednesday for their orchestrated walkout.

A spokeswoman for McAuliffe did not respond to requests for comment on the Republicans’ stance about Roush. ... Sen. A. Donald McEachin (Richmond), an attorney and the Democrat who made the motion that abruptly ended Virginia’s session, said Republicans are wrong — but he declined to explain because the case may end up in court.

House Republicans to introduce oversight legislation in response to latest EPA Regulations from Obama administration

Republicans in the Virginia House of Delegates will announce oversight legislation in response to the latest EPA regulations at a pro-energy rally in Richmond Monday night. Delegate Israel O’Quinn (R-Washington) will introduce legislation ahead of the 2016 session to require General Assembly approval and oversight of the Commonwealth’s plan to comply with the E.P.A.’s “Clean Power Plan” regulations. The EPA released the final Clean Power Plan rule last week. “The 1,500-plus pages of regulations released by President Obama’s E.P.A. could drive up energy prices and damage Virginia’s already struggling economy,” said House Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford). “The House of Delegates will fight to protect the working families, seniors and small businesses that will be hurt by these burdensome regulations. The Commonwealth should delay the implementation of any compliance plan while the regulations are litigated and the General Assembly should have final approval and oversight of the plan.”

“For Virginians, the impact of complying with President Obama’s regulations will be severe. Energy prices will go up, disproportionately hurting senior citizens and the poor, and the rules will deal yet another blow to small businesses who are already struggling.” said Delegate O’Quinn. “These people who will be affected by these regulations should have a say in how we comply with that plan through their elected representatives.”

“Our proposed legislation would require General Assembly approval and oversight before Virginia complies with the EPA’s new regulations,” O’Quinn continued. “Governor McAuliffe must send his plan to the legislature for review, and the House and Senate will then take a vote on behalf of the Virginians they represent. If the plan fails to pass, Governor McAuliffe tries again. He cannot implement the plan without approval of the General Assembly and, by extension, the citizens of Virginia. It is that simple.”

The legislation will be formally introduced Monday night at the Americans for Prosperity Power-Up Virginia Rally at the University of Richmond. House Majority Leader Kirk Cox (R-Colonial Heights), Delegate Jimmie Massie (R-Henrico) and Delegate O’Quinn will all speak.

“Virginians are frustrated. The economy is flat lining, families are struggling paycheck to paycheck and businesses are just trying to get by,” said Leader Cox. “The Obama-Clinton-McAuliffe regulatory agenda is stifling growth. The higher energy prices from this plan will only make it worse. It is time for the people to have a say in these regulations and that is what our approval and oversight legislation would do.”

“Whether it is a main street retailer in Hampton Roads, small auto-repair shop in the Shenandoah Valley, major manufacturer here in Richmond or large data center in Northern Virginia, all businesses will be impacted by these costly and burdensome regulations,” said Delegate Massie. “The higher energy prices caused by these regulations either cut in to the bottom line or they’re passed on to customers. Either way, someone loses. Our approval and oversight legislation is a commonsense step to protect Virginia families and their jobs.”

For more information on the Power-Up Virginia Rally, click here.

Today is National 811 Day. Always Call 811 Before You Dig

Planning a home improvement job? Planting a tree? Installing a fence or deck? WAIT! Here's what you need to know first. Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, smart digging means calling 811 before each job. Homeowners often make risky assumptions about whether or not they should get their utility lines marked, but every digging job requires a call – even small projects like planting trees and shrubs Call 811 at least  three business days prior to digging, tell the operator where you're planning to dig, what type of work you will be doing and affected local utilities companies will be notified about your intent to dig. They'll send a locator to mark the approximate location of public underground lines, pipes and cables, so you'll know what's below - and be able to dig safely.

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Delegate Peace Statement on Initial Bureaucratic Review of the Private Sector Application for a Trauma Center in New Kent County

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Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) today issued the following statement on recent reports of the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) initial review of an application for construction of a level 2 trauma center with MRI and CT imaging services to be located in New Kent County: “I am disturbed by a recent report stating VDH staff’s initial review of a COPN application for imagining equipment to be located at a proposed level 2 trauma center in New Kent recommends denial. I am appalled that state bureaucrats may deny rural New Kent residents access to high quality health care and jobs. Reports like these may affect the future need for a Certificate for Public Need (COPN) program in Virginia. I will express my concerns directly to the State Health Commissioner and am strongly considering taking steps toward legislative action.”

“In my letter of support to the State Health Commissioner, I firmly stated the positive impacts this proposal will have for New Kent County and citizens. This project will be extremely beneficial for New Kent County, its residents and families. I also believe that it may help with attracting jobs and new taxpayers to the county. Notwithstanding the health benefits, New Kent County has recently experienced the loss of a major industry and economic engine in Colonial Downs and economic growth is a priority of mine for the county. The potential addition of a new industry that employs locally and provides health and well-being to families would be a welcomed event.”

“I ask, shouldn’t private industry such as a for-profit hospital be able to make up its own mind about how to invest in expansion of services into new areas? Are the citizens of New Kent less worthy of a scanner than those in other larger localities? I feel the COPN system in Virginia may be past its sell by date. I will continue to stand firm in my support of this project on behalf of my constituents and friends in New Kent.”

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Virginia State Board of Elections Proposes Changes to Voter Registration Form

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Del. Peace questions changes to regulations removing currently required inquiries on citizenship or felony convictions Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) announced his concern that Virginia’s Secretary of Administration and the State Department of Elections are proposing regulations to overhaul the voter registration form. "What they are proposing may violate the Virginia Constitution, and go against the Code of Virginia," said Del. Peace.

The Constitution of Virginia, Article 2, Section 2 states very clearly:

“Applications to register shall require the applicant to provide the following information on a standard form: full name; date of birth; residence address; social security number, if any; whether the applicant is presently a United States citizen; and such additional information as may be required by law. All applications to register shall be completed by or at the direction of the applicant and signed by the applicant, unless physically disabled. No fee shall be charged to the applicant incident to an application to register….and whether the applicant has ever been adjudicated to be mentally incompetent or convicted of a felony, and if so, under what circumstances the applicant's right to vote has been restored."

The McAuliffe Administration's proposed changes announced by the Virginia State Board of Elections would allow people registering to vote to skip questions on their citizenship or felony convictions.

Speaking to the proposal, Peace asserted, “If implemented, these changes could of course make it easier to commit voter fraud, and would substantially undermine bills passed in recent years to address voting by felons, residents of other states, and photo ID. This proposal would never pass our House of Delegates, which may explain why it is being brought administratively through the State Board.”

Local registrars have reviewed the proposed changes to the application and the regulations. The greatest concerns expressed by the Voter Registration Association of Virginia (VRAV) Region 3 registrars, which includes Hanover, King William, and New Kent, were about the proposed regulations which set forth what would be considered a material omission from the application and what would be considered an immaterial omission.

VRAV Region 3 noted that §24.2-418 of the Code of Virginia mandates that a voter provide certain information in order to register to vote. However, the proposed regulations counter those specific mandates in several instances. The group feels and strongly urges that the regulations be revisited and revised to be in accordance with the specific mandates of the Code of Virginia.

House Speaker William J. Howell applauds creation of GO Virginia business coalition

Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford) on Tuesday applauded the Virginia business community for the launch of Virginia Initiative for Growth and Opportunity in Each Region, or GO Virginia. GO Virginia is a coalition of business leaders working to promote collaboration between state and local government and the private sector in order to grow Virginia’s economy. The coalition was announced Tuesday in a press conference at Virginia’s Biotechnology Park. "Today’s announcement is the result of nearly two years of hard work by Virginia’s most prominent and successful business leaders and the beginning of a collaborative effort to grow and strengthen Virginia’s economy," said Speaker Howell. "This coalition was necessitated by the clear acknowledgement that Virginia’s economy is struggling. We rank near the bottom of the nation for economic growth and our status as one of the nation’s best states for business is rapidly falling. More needs to be done to create good paying jobs for Virginia families, inspire entrepreneurs to build new businesses and attract the world’s best companies to the Commonwealth."

Speaker Howell continued, "Whether it is prioritizing existing economic development funding to incentivize regional collaboration or streamlining and improving our workforce development programs, I am confident that the General Assembly will be able to work with this coalition of business leaders to develop ideas that can be turned into actionable policies in order to power a brighter future for Virginia."

"Finally, I want to thank Dubby Wynne, Tom Farrell, Heywood Fralin, Wick Moorman, and other business leaders from around the state who put their time and energy in to building this coalition,” Howell concluded. “I look forward to making GO Virginia a success."

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Peace Statement on New Kent Level 2 Trauma Center Proposal

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Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) today issued the following statement on the recent announcement of a proposed level 2 trauma center to be located in the Bottoms Bridge area of New Kent County: “I was honored to be asked in March to submit a letter of support on behalf of the County and the applicant to establish an outpatient imaging center with CT and MRI services at a freestanding emergency department in New Kent County to the Virginia Department of Health.”

“This project will be extremely beneficial for New Kent County, its residents and families. I also believe that it may help with attracting jobs and new taxpayers to the county. Notwithstanding the health benefits, New Kent County has recently experienced the loss of a major industry and economic engine in Colonial Downs and economic growth is a priority of mine for the county. The potential addition of a new industry that employs locally and provides health and well-being to families would be a welcomed event.”

In a recent article authored by Andre jones of the New Kent Chronicle dated 7/20/15, County Administrator Rodney Hathaway confirmed the possibility of a medical facility in Quinton and he was quoted therein: “The proposal is currently going through a variety of public hearings being hosted by the Virginia Health Commission (VHC),” Hathaway said. “Their next one is July 29 and I know it is becoming a topic of discussion that is gaining steam.”

 

State Grant Funding Awarded to New Kent County Airport

Delegate Peace, Chairman of House Appropriations Transportation Committee, Welcomes Needed Support for County Airport Central VA –Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-97th District) who serves as the Chairman of House Appropriations Transportation Committee today announced that the New Kent County Airport was issued a grant agreement for maintenance improvements in the amount of $21,587.  Funds were awarded by the Virginia Department of Aviation.  “I am so pleased that the state can provide these funds for capital costs helping to keep the New Kent airport well maintained into the future,” said New Kent’s Delegate Peace.

Grant funds will be utilized for the purchase of much needed equipment to help maintain the premises.  State aviation grant funding programs assist public-use airports with a variety of maintenance and improvement activities.

In a letter to Delegate Peace, Randall P. Burdette, Director of the Virginia Department of Aviation stated, “We are pleased to be able to provide this financial assistance to the New Kent County Airport, which we believe is an important component of the Commonwealth’s statewide transportation system as well as an important contributor to the region’s overall economic development.”

The Virginia Department of Aviation is a state transportation agency whose mission is to cultivate an advanced aviation system that is safe, secure, and provides for economic development; promotes aviation awareness and education.

Peace Statement on King v. Burwell

Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) today issued the following statement on the Supreme Court’s decision in King v. Burwell. “In a recent split decision, the Supreme Court reaffirmed elements of the so-called Affordable Care Act, more commonly known as "Obamacare." Numerous families and businesses across the 97th District have experienced the negative impacts of Obamacare, including the punitive impacts of higher taxes, businesses creating fewer full-time jobs, health care plans that have been cancelled, skyrocketing premiums and higher out-of-pocket costs. As many as, if not more than, 250,000 Virginians had health care plans they enjoyed cancelled under Obamacare. Moreover, Virginia premiums are expected to increase by 11 to 14% this year. 10 out of 19 insurance companies have reported increases of more than 10%. Premiums have increased in Virginia by as much as 67% in some cases since 2013. The Court’s decision only serves to reinforce these adverse conditions. Instead, I stand with the people of our district to continue to protect Virginians from these negative effects of Obamacare.

“During my service, I have led budget efforts to strengthen our health care safety net without expanding our broken Medicaid system here in Virginia. I have also championed several potential solutions to our broken health care system. For example, I introduced the Virginia Health Care Compact which would give the state more flexibility with its Medicaid program through federal block grants. Along with former Senator Cuccinelli, I filed and fought for legislation to allow Virginians the ability for interstate purchase of health insurance where persons could purchase less expensive plans from other states without the heavy burdens of mandated benefits.

“Regardless of the Court's opinion, our Congress stands on the front lines to repeal and replace The Affordable Care Act which remains deeply flawed. We as state lawmakers must do all we can to keep health care costs under control, provide flexibility to families and encourage businesses to create jobs.”

Peace Continues to Support Access to Quality Health Care Facilities

-- This week is Virginia Hospital Week across the Commonwealth --

CENTRAL VA- Virginia’s hospitals employ 123,508 people, and generates $34.8 Billion in economic activity.  Senate Joint Resolution 346, passed during the 2015 session, designates this week, May 10th to 16th is Virginia Hospital Week.  It is a week to thank and commend the dedicated medical and support staff for their service to the health, well-being, and preventative health education of Virginia residents.  Virginia’s 107 hospitals employ more than 123,000 individuals, generating more than $34 billion in economic activity; and our hospitals rank among the top three employers in 45 percent of Virginia’s counties and cities.

“Access to quality health care improves outcomes for Virginia communities.  As a member of the Joint Commission on Health Care and the House Health, Welfare, and Institutions Committee, I work directly on advancing health care policy,” stated Peace.

Speaking about the week, James B. Cole, Chairman of the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association Board of Directors and President and CEO of Virginia Hospital Center noted, “Virginia is fortunate to be home to world class hospitals in every region. In fact, nearly every Virginian lives within twenty miles of a hospital that is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, three hundred and sixty five days a year. This access to quality healthcare is crucial to the well-being of our communities. It is also equally critical to our economy. Virginia’s hospitals generate $34.8 billion in economic activity a year and employ 123,508 people.”

In celebration of this week, Virginians will find posters highlighting Virginia Hospital Week throughout hospitals in the Commonwealth.  Additionally, visit the website at www.VirginiaHospitalWeek.com to learn more about Virginia’s hospitals and the great work they do.

The mission of the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association is “to help our members improve the health status of the communities they serve.”  Their vision is: “Health care for all that is high-quality, high-value, compassionate and respectful.  Health care defined to include all services needed to achieve optimum health. Virginia to be the healthiest state in the nation.” To learn more about VHHA visit:  http://www.vhha.com/index.html

Delegate Chris Peace is frequently rated one of Virginia’s most business-friendly conservatives. Peace’s voting record shows a consistent focus on opposing tax increases, protecting family values, defending the Constitution, and promoting job creation and a high quality of life in Hanover, King William and New Kent counties. 

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DELEGATE CHRIS PEACE ANNOUNCES HIS BID FOR RE-ELECTION TO VIRGINIA’S 97TH HOUSE DISTRICT IN 2015

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Small-business, non-profit, human services leaders and advocates joined at a breakfast today to praise Chris for his efforts to fight for the disabled, seniors, women and children, and victims of domestic violence. Mechanicsville, VA - Delegate Christopher K. Peace announced today that he will seek re-election to the 97th District in the House of Delegates. Headlining Peace’s kick-off breakfast hosted at the American Legion Post 175in Mechanicsville, Congressman David Brat (R-7th District) complimented the Delegate for his conservative leadership in Richmond and for his thoughtful approach to representative democracy. Hanover Supervisors Canova Peterson and Angela Kelly-Wiecek, Clerk Frank Hargrove, Jr., Treasurer Scott Miller, Commonwealth Attorney Trip Chalkley, New Kent Sheriff Wakie Howard, Supervisor Thomas Evelyn, and King William Commissioner of the Revenue Sally Pearson among others joined Peace for the kickoff. Delegate Peace’s father, Dr. Karl Peace, also was present for this special event.

Delegate Peace has represented the 97th House District since first being elected in 2006, and he is frequently rated one of Virginia’s most business-friendly conservatives. Peace’s voting record shows a consistent focus on opposing tax increases, protecting family values defending the Constitution, and promoting job creation and a high quality of life in Hanover, King William and New Kent counties. On announcing his candidacy for re-election as the Republican nominee, Delegate Peace prepared the following statement,

“With great humility, I intend to seek re-election to the office of Delegate for the 97th District in the Virginia General Assembly. At home, my office remains creative and responsive to all constituent concerns. In Richmond, I want to represent the people’s best interests in developing and managing state public policy. I want to earn your vote as one one of Virginia’s most business-friendly conservatives with a voting record focused on opposing tax increases, protecting family values, defending the Constitution, and promoting job creation and a high quality of life in Hanover, King William and New Kent counties.”

Speaking to Del. Peace’s impact on the brain injury community, Jason Young, Executive Director, Community Brain Injury Services stated that his recent legislative successes will increase the quality of life of residents across the District and the Commonwealth.  Additional remarks were offered by Kristie VanAudenhove, Executive Director of Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance, and Sheree Hedrick, Executive Director, Hanover Safe Place.  With the passage of recent domestic violence reform measures Peace’s work will streamline services and increase efficiencies to better address the needs of victims of domestic and sexual abuse.

Peace’s heart for strengthening families and protection of children in our communities was highlighted by Janet Kelly, former Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.  Mrs. Kelly shared details about personal interactions with Peace on matters of family law, adoption, and foster care.  Melissa Ball, a Hanover resident and small business owner, stated that just as she wants to keep all of her well performing employees and in much the same way hopes the voters of the District will “re-hire Delegate Peace this November.”

In his prepared statement to media, Peace outlined how DC lawmakers have been the source of policy after policies that make it harder to create jobs. He noted how in Richmond the Assembly passed legislation making it easier for small businesses to find the funding to start and grow. This efficient and effective leadership of which Peace has been a part is total absent in Washington, D.C. where there is rampant debt, deficits and higher taxes. Alternatively in Richmond there are balanced budgets and cuts in discretionary spending. In fact, the House has killed 26 separate tax increases worth over $30 B since 2003, and Peace strongly opposed expanding Obamacare in Virginia. Last year’s $2.4 B shortfall crisis was solved by not by grabbing the “free” money from Obamacare but by making tough choices to balance the budget. Virginia now spends $1B less in general fund dollars than in last year’s original budget.  For all those working families in the District, the legislature also eliminated $11.7 M in fees and $33 M in debt proposed by Governor McAuliffe.  Working together against future shortfalls, Republicans and Democrats pre-paid the 2017 rainy day fund deposit.

Delegate Peace’s priorities last session and going forward will remain promoting an atmosphere which will encourage the private sector to create good and well-paying jobs, a state government which will partner with our localities to improve our schools, and ensure that college is more affordable, and ultimately to protect our most vulnerable citizens. Peace continued in his re-election statement,

“I am seeking re-election to represent the home and community that I love. I commit to work every day to find solutions for hard working families so that it becomes a better place to live, work and raise a family. While challenges exist, I believe that there are no problems that we cannot solve together as a community. When we decide that America remains the greatest country in the world with a dream intact, we will realize greater opportunities. When we reject the divisive tone of our local and state politic, we will be able to achieve great things for our shared community.

Working together we can continue to improve how government serves its people in more efficient and effective ways. We can and must keep the burden of taxes from increasing on our citizens and businesses and we must never forget who we are and what we believe in. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve and I look forward to continuing to represent the citizens of this District in the Virginia House of Delegates for another two years.”

If you would like to contact the Peace campaign, please feel free to contact the Delegate personally at info@chrispeace.com , visit www.chrispeace.com, or remit correspondence to his office at P.O. Box 819, Mechanicsville, VA 23111.

 

 

Governor McAuliffe Announces 55 New Jobs in Hanover County

Mavalério to invest $5 million to establish first U.S. production operation ~ RICHMOND - Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that Mavalério, a Brazilian manufacturer of candy and other confectionary products, will invest $5 million to establish its first U.S. production operation in Hanover County. Virginia successfully competed against Delaware and Florida for the project, which will create 55 new jobs.

Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McAuliffe said, “I am thrilled to announce that Mavalério has chosen the Commonwealth and Hanover County for its first U.S. operation. Winning this significant project is another testament to Virginia’s global competitiveness, and creating high-tech jobs is another step forward in building a new Virginia economy.”

“Virginia’s ability to continually attract international businesses is demonstrated by this project,” said Maurice Jones, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “Some of Mavalério’s largest customers are located right here in the Commonwealth, and the location of this new operation will help the company grow its footprint in the U.S. market. We welcome Mavalério to Hanover County and to Virginia.” Mavalério, founded in 1969 and based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is the largest producer of decorative confectionary in Latin America, currently exporting to more than 20 countries. Over the years, the company has been growing and innovating, serving domestic and foreign markets the most diverse and tasty products, which helped Mavalério become the largest manufacturer of the decorative confectionery industry in Latin America.

“Mavalério is very excited about this new venture in the United States,” said Fernando Bettin, Mavalério director of operations. “We have chosen the state of Virginia because we can reach 55 percent of the U.S. population within 750 miles, and we couldn’t be more pleased with our location in Hanover County. As a manufacturer of sugar confectionery toppings, interstate, port and airport access are critical to maintain our supply chain. The Greater Richmond Partnership and Hanover County are providing excellent support to make it all happen.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Hanover County and the Greater Richmond Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Governor McAuliffe approved a $50,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Hanover with the project. The company will receive benefits from the Port of Virginia Economic and Infrastructure Development Zone Grant Program. Additional funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“Hanover County is pleased to welcome Mavalério into our corporate community, and we are impressed with this company’s passion for producing quality products for the confections industry,” said Wayne Hazzard, chairman of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors. “They have selected Northlake as the location in which to launch their first U.S. production facility, and the Lewistown corridor on I-95 is poised for dynamic growth. We are confident that Mavalério will grow and prosper in Hanover County.” “This is a thoughtful decision by Mavalerio to choose Virginia and the Port of Virginia,” said John F. Reinhart, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority. “Virginia and Hanover County provide a strategic East Coast location within reach of our great port, which will serve as the company’s gateway to world markets.”

“I want to thank Mavalério for choosing Hanover County to place its new production operation,” said Senator A. Donald McEachin. “Both the new jobs that will be created and the addition of a good corporate neighbor will be assets for the community and are an important stepping stone in the new Virginia economy.”

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Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB): Public Hearing

The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) will be holding a public hearing in the Metro Regional Area, to give citizens the opportunity to review and provide comments on projects and programs to be included in the Fiscal Year 2016-2021 Six year Improvement Program (SYIP 2016-2021). The public hearing will start at 6PM on May 5, 2015 at the Thomas J. Fulghum Conference Center Chesterfield Career & Technical Center at Hull Street Road 13900 Hull Street Road, Midlothian, VA. You can also submit your comments by email or mail by May 22, 2015. For roads and highways: Six-YearProgram@VDOT.Virginia.gov , or Infrastructure Investment Director, Virginia Department of Transportation 1401 East Broad St., Richmond, VA 23219. For transit and public transportation: DRPTPR@drpt.virginia.gov , Public Information Office, Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation 600 East Main Street, Suite 2102, Richmond VA, 23219.

For more information, visit http://www.virginiadot.org/projects/syp-default.asp

Peace Rejects Attorney General’s Support of Unconstitutional Immigration Policy

Peace previously demanded that the AG join the lawsuit to support the Constitution and against Obama’s Immigration Policy. Central Virginia – On December 7, 2014, Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) issued a letter to Attorney General Mark Herring “requesting that you take immediate action to add the Commonwealth to the growing coalition of sovereign states that are pursuing legal action challenging President Barack Obama’s recent actions changing immigration law.”

In the letter, Peace continued, “One of your many duties includes defending the rights and interests of the citizens of Virginia as enumerated in the Federal and State Constitutions. While you have not always chosen to do so as regards hyper-partisan policies, the President’s recent actions present another important opportunity for you to defend the Commonwealth’s interests. Maintaining and preserving a system of laws and the separation of powers which flows from the Constitution requires your immediate attention. I encourage you to join numerous states in defending our Constitution that you swore an oath to uphold.” To read Peace’s full letter to the AG: http://bit.ly/1H1pcMK

In response, yesterday, Attorney General Herring united with 14 other attorneys general and the District of Columbia in filing a brief with a federal appeals court that states the president’s November orders are both legal and beneficial.

“While I am deeply disappointed in the actions of Virginia’s Attorney General, I am not surprised. By joining in this brief, he continues to show that he has little desire to uphold the Constitution. The President has stated that the path to immigration reform should go through the proper legislative channels; and on that we agree. We need to enact common sense proposals to provide more effective enforcement of existing laws and improve coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement authorities. I encourage our Congressman Dave Brat to assist us as state officials in this regard,” said Peace. “With reforms we honor the legal immigrants who have helped and continue to make our great Commonwealth the best place to work and raise a family.”

Delegate Chris Peace is frequently rated one of Virginia’s most business-friendly conservatives. Peace’s voting record shows a consistent focus on opposing tax increases, protecting family values defending the Constitution, and promoting job creation and a high quality of life in Hanover, King William and New Kent counties.

 

Public Guardianship Program Receives Vital Investment for the Protection of Vulnerable Citizens

Peace successfully secured much needed funding for the adults who need assistance with legal and medical decisions adding protection and improved quality of life for them.   Central Virginia – During the 2015 Session, Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover), successfully championed a budget request which directs funding for Virginia’s Guardianship Program which helps indigent and incapacitated adults that need assistance with legal and medical decisions.  This program will assist residents of the 97th District and others across Commonwealth.

The program is administered by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) and currently serves 600 people statewide.  Currently there is an unmet need of about 900 unserved people waiting for assistance, particularly in underserved areas of the state such as southern and southwest Virginia.

This funding will allow 100 individuals to be served across 16 counties not currently served. New Kent County is also one of the unserved jurisdictions. Public Guardians are the guardians of last resort who assist individuals with critical health decisions.  These newly added funds will be used to fix these shortfalls in services and response.  Guardianship adds protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and also makes sure that seniors will get the assistance needed to improve the quality of life.

From a recent letter to Peace, Lisa G. Furr, President of the Virginia Coalition for Prevention of Elder Abuse states, “On behalf of the Virginia Coalition for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, I write to thank you for your budget amendment for Virginia’s Public Guardianship Program, and for your advocacy in getting this item into the final budget.”

Speaking to this legislative success, Peace stated “Programs that increase the quality and life of our elderly, indigent, incapacitated, and aging citizens are important to our community and the quality of life of its citizens. When we talk about compassionate conservatism, this is what it looks like.”

According to their website, the VCPEA (Virginia Coalition for the Prevention of Elder Abuse) is a coalition of individuals and organizations working through public awareness, advocacy, and education to assure older Virginians a life free of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. For more information please visit their website at: www.vcpea.org

Delegate Chris Peace is frequently rated one of Virginia’s most business-friendly conservatives. Peace’s voting record shows a consistent focus on opposing tax increases, protecting family values defending the Constitution, and promoting job creation and a high quality of life in Hanover, King William and New Kent counties.