Virginia House Democrats

Press Releases

  • House Democratic Leadership Statement on Filler-Corn Victory

    House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong and Democratic Caucus Chairman Ken Plum issued the following statement on the results of today's special election in the 41st House District:

    "Eileen Filler-Corn ran an excellent campaign centered on the importance of fully funding education, and it's clear that the voters of Fairfax County agreed with her. With difficult budget decisions facing the General Assembly in its closing weeks, Eileen's presence in Richmond will help ensure that our public schools are given the attention they deserve.

    "We congratulate Eileen for a hard-fought race, and look forward to welcoming her to the House of Delegates."

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  • House Democratic Leadership Statement on House Budget Passage

     House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong and Democratic Caucus Chairman Ken Plum issued the following statement on today's unprecedented party-line budget vote:

    "Today, House Democrats stood as one on behalf of all hard-working Virginia families in voting against a budget that represents misplaced priorities.

    "This budget cuts disproportionately from education, gutting school funding and increasing class sizes. It cuts jobs - at least 33,211, according to estimates from the Virginia Education Association and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association. It cancels health insurance for 22,400 children. It cuts millions in funding for domestic violence programs, grants for the homeless, and mortgage counseling.

    "Simply put, this is a budget balanced on the backs of our most vulnerable citizens.

    "Additionally, with our Commonwealth facing unprecedented hardship, it is disappointing that the Republican majority chose to make such critical decisions in the dark.

    "We hope this afternoon's show of unity clearly expresses our grave concerns about both the contents of this budget and the process by which it was crafted."

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  • Eileen Filler-Corn Announces Candidacy

    Longtime Springfield Resident Enters Special Election

    Today, Eileen Filler-Corn announced that she would file the required paperwork to be a candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates in the 41st district. There will be a special election on March 2nd to fill the seat left vacant by Dave Marsden, who was elected to the Virginia State Senate last week.

    A longtime resident of the 41st district, Eileen has extensive experience in state government and a long history of civic involvement at the local and state level.

    Under Governor Tim Kaine, Eileen Filler-Corn served as Senior Advisor to the Governor for State and Federal Relations. Prior to that she was the Deputy Director for the Virginia Liaison Office for Governor Mark Warner during his entire term.

    Eileen Filler-Corn stated, "Families in our area and all over Virginia have had to tighten their belts. In Richmond, I will help tighten the state's belt too, but I will do so without abandoning what makes Fairfax County unique, our world class schools. We cannot afford any further education cuts from Richmond. The Governor and the General Assembly must find ways to create jobs and improve our economy. We must also stay focused on transportation issues so families spend less time in traffic and more time with each other.

    Eileen continued, "Too often people get elected then turn their attention to narrow ideological interests. As Delegate, my priority will always be the residents of the 41st District. In this campaign I look forward to a healthy debate on the issues that matter to our area."

    U.S. Senator Mark Warner today said, "Eileen Filler-Corn was a valued member of my Administration as Governor and she will be a strong, moderate voice for the residents of the district. Eileen demonstrated a great ability at every opportunity to work with members of both parties to get the job done for Virginia. I am very happy to strongly support her candidacy for the House of Delegates."

    Current State Senator Dave Marsden added, "I have known Eileen Filler-Corn for many years and I am proud to support her candidacy for the House of Delegates. Eileen has been very involved in our community, especially when it comes to our schools. She will be a great advocate for our area in Richmond."

    Eileen has lived in the 41st District for 15 years and resides in Springfield with her husband Bob and their children Jeremy and Alana.

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  • Democrats Announce Ethics Reform Legislation

    Call on Republicans to join effort

    Richmond – Democrats from the House and Senate joined together today to unveil omnibus legislation reforming Virginia’s Conflicts of Interest statute.

    Democratic lawmakers introduced the legislation in response to the ethical problems of former lawmaker and ranking Republican member of the House Appropriations Committee Phil Hamilton revealed last year.

    Hamilton is being investigated by a federal grand jury for his pursuit of a paid position at Old Dominion University while simultaneously carrying the enabling budget amendment that would have created that position.

    House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong (D-Henry) is carrying the legislation in the House of Delegates (HB657).

    “It is important our citizens have faith in an open and honest government. As legislators we are here to represent the people’s interests, not our own interests,” Delegate Armstrong said.

    Senator Ralph Northam (D-Norfolk) is carrying the accompanying bill in the Senate (SB186). He asked all members of the House and Senate, Democrats and Republicans, to join in tightening Virginia’s conflict of interest laws.

    “The citizens of Virginia entrust us to serve them with integrity and now more than ever in these tough economic times we need to serve as proper stewards of the state’s limited resources,” Northam said.

    “Maintaining the public’s trust in its government should not be a Democratic or Republican issue, it should be a priority for all,” he said. “That’s why I hope and ask for members of both parties and in both chambers to join us in reforming these laws, and adding a long overdue dose of transparency to this process.”

    The bills address Virginia’s General Assembly Conflicts of Interest statute, which has not been significantly revised in over 20 years. Highlights of HB657 and SB186 include:

    • Creating a single five-member Ethics Advisory Panel, with appointments made by the House and Senate majority and minority leaders and the Governor. Currently, there are two review panels – a House Ethics Advisory Panel, appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates, to investigate inquiries made about members of the House, and a Senate Ethics Advisory Panel, appointed by Senate Committee on Rules, to investigate inquiries made about members of the Senate.
    • Requiring the panel to hold proceedings in public.
    • Defining a legislator as in violation if he or she knew or should have known that his or her actions were in violation of ethical standards. Current law requires proof that the legislator knew that he or she was violating ethical standards.
    • Ensuring that panel investigations continue even if a legislator resigns office.

    Newly elected Delegate Robin Abbott (D-Newport News) who replaced Hamilton joined Del. Armstrong and Sen. Northam at the press conference.

    “During the course of my campaign, I pledged to lead the effort to bring much needed ethics reform to Richmond. I have fulfilled my promise by introducing four bills to be considered by the General Assembly during the 2010 Session relating to ethics reform. This legislation is absolutely necessary to ensure proper safeguards are in place to eliminate corruption,” she said.

    The legislators pledged to work together and across party lines pass this landmark legislation.

    Other introduced legislation includes:

    • HB814 (Abbott, D-Newport News) which establishes one five-member Review Panel in place of the present separate House and Senate Ethics Advisory Panels.
    • HB816 (Abbott, D-Newport News) which provides that once the House or Senate Ethics Advisory Panel has initiated an investigation into the conduct of a legislator, it must complete its inquiry, report its findings, and dispose of the matter as provided by law.
    • HB321 (Plum, D-Fairfax) which requires a member of the General Assembly to disclose any wages or salary paid to him or an immediate member of his family, regardless of the amount, by a state or local government or advisory agency employer.
    • HB328 (Plum, D-Fairfax) which requires the the Clerks of the House and Senate to establish a searchable electronic database, available to the public through the Internet, containing the information from the disclosure of personal interests statements filed by legislators, legislators-elect, and candidates for the General Assembly.
    • HB642 (Armstrong, D-Henry) Provides that payments to a member for office expenses and supplies may be made only upon the member's submission of a voucher for the expenses.
    • SB14 (Howell, D-Fairfax) which requires a member of the General Assembly to disclose in his annual disclosure of personal interests any salary and wages in excess of $10,000 paid to him or his immediate family for employment with a state or local government or advisory agency.

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  • A Strong Recovery for Virginia

    Joint Statement
    Democratic Caucuses, House of Delegates and Senate of Virginia


    We are living in extraordinarily challenging times in our state and in the nation. Virginians are losing their jobs, their homes, and their economic security at a pace unprecedented in modern times. And it does not seem that there is an end in sight.

    Just like Virginians are struggling to make ends meet, our state government is struggling as well.

    Our revenues are the worst we have seen in seventy years. There is little solace to realizing that other states may be faring more poorly.

    We clearly will not be able to do business as usual.

    There is the assurance that we begin our recovery as the Best Managed State in the nation, the Best State to do Business and with our AAA Bond rating still intact. We will work to maintain this position of strength by making the following our priorities:

    • Restoring our economy and putting Virginians back to work;
    • Strengthening the public’s trust in government;
    • Ensuring that people and goods can move safely and efficiently in our state;
    • Protecting our most valuable and vulnerable citizens; and
    • Maintaining adequate funding for the continued support of education.

    As the General Assembly opens its annual session, we pledge to keep Virginia the best place in the country to live, work, and do business. And we pledge to work with the new Administration to meet this goal.

    As our constituents expect us to, we pledge that we will not let partisanship get in the way of practical solutions. We will be bold in seeking solutions that are long-term, sustainable, and in the mold of good government in Virginia. We will be open to new ideas that support our priorities.

    There is no doubt that if we work together, we have what it takes to emerge from this recession in a strong way.

    Delegate Ward L. Armstrong
    Minority Leader, House of Delegates

    Senator Richard L. Saslaw
    Majority Leader, Senate

    Delegate Kenneth R. Plum
    Minority Caucus Chair, House of Delegates

    Mary Margaret Whipple
    Majority Caucus Chair, Senate

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  • Will Hamilton Still Be A Budget Conferee?

     Howell Still Hasn't Answered Hamilton's Main Argument for Re-Election

    Recent campaign finance filings show that House Republican leaders continued to funnel money to Del. Phil Hamilton's campaign even as the Newport News lawmaker became embroiled in a scandal over his handling of state money. But come January, will Hamilton still be in a position to deliver on their pet projects?

    With both a federal investigation and secretive House ethics inquiry underway, many of the questions about Hamilton will have to be answered another day.

    But Speaker Bill Howell can answer some of them right now: If both he and Hamilton are re-elected to their current positions, will Hamilton be reappointed to his current seat on the Appropriations committee? If so, will Hamilton still serve as one of only six House budget conferees entrusted with state budget negotiations?

    "Bill Howell needs to let the people of Virginia know who he wants handling their tax dollars," said House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong. "They can rest assured that in a House of Delegates controlled by Democrats, that won't include Phil Hamilton."

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  • Del. Armstrong Statement on Hamilton Investigation

    "This afternoon, House Speaker Bill Howell announced that he has requested the House Ethics Advisory Panel conduct an investigation into the actions of Delegate Phil Hamilton, with the 'unanimous concurrence of the other members of the House leadership.'

    "I believe the Speaker misspoke, as I was not included in this discussion. If I had been, I would have expressed my concern that the Speaker is relegating this probe to a panel where proceedings have historically been kept secret.

    "As the Virginian-Pilot reported this weekend, roughly 10 such investigations have been conducted by the Ethics Advisory Panel in the last 20 years, and all have taken place behind closed doors.

    "Unfortunately, a lack of transparency is what led to this situation in the first place. Delegate Hamilton is a public official, and any investigation into his actions should be conducted in full view of the citizens of Virginia.

    "The Rules of the House of Delegates state that the House Privileges and Elections Committee has the power to 'receive and investigate any charges or complaints brought against any member of the House of Delegates in the performance of his duties or the discharge of his responsibilities and recommend to the House such action as it may deem appropriate to establish and enforce standards of conduct for members.'

    "I call on Speaker Howell and Committee Chairman Cole to convene the committee as quickly as possible and deal with this inquiry in a fair, thorough, and - most importantly - open manner. Rather than face an investigation that may never see the light of day, Delegate Hamilton should come before a bipartisan, fully public panel of his peers.

    "We cannot risk losing the public's trust in our institution by continuing to cloak this incident in secrecy."

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  • What do House GOP Candidates Think of McDonnell's Transportation Plan?

    McDonnell Plan Criticized Widely as Being Dead on Arrival

    Since announcing his transportation plan last week, Republican Gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell has faced a steady stream of criticism from editorial boards, transportation experts, and even leaders from his own party.

    One group that has been noticeably silent, however, are Republican House of Delegate candidates.

    "Bob McDonnell's transportation plan has been widely recognized for what it truly is - a risky scheme that would pit roads and Virginia students against one another," said Delegate Ken Plum, chairman of the House Democratic Caucus. "Even a number of Republican leaders have expressed concern. I think Republican House of Delegate candidates owe it to the voters to explain if they support McDonnell's plan to shortchange schools."

    According to his own estimates, Bob McDonnell's transportation plan would drain at least $5.41 billion from education and other core priorities over ten years. According to McDonnell's transportation plan, he would "dedicate [a] percentage of new revenue growth over 3% (minimum 1%)...$1.5 B" to transportation, divert to transportation "0.30% of sales tax collected in NOVA...$1.05 B," take a "portion of growth generated by [the] Virginia port...$2 B," and devote "75% of [budget] surplus...$860 M" to transportation. By his own estimates, McDonnell would pay for his plan with at least $5.41 billion that would normally go the General Fund to pay for education and other core priorities. (McDonnell Transportation Plan, 7/21/09)

    Here's what others are saying about Bob McDonnell's plan.

    MCDONNELL'S TRANPORTATION PLAN: DEAD ON ARRIVAL

    "Virginia's transportation problems are real...But Bob McDonnell's solutions are unreal" (Op-Ed, Dan Casey, Roanoke Times, 7/28/09)

    Bob McDonnell's Transportation Plan Would Drain At Least $5.41 Billion From Education and Other Core Priorities Over Ten Years, By His Own Estimates. According to McDonnell's transportation plan, McDonnell would "dedicate [a] percentage of new revenue growth over 3% (minimum 1%)...$1.5 B" to transportation, divert to transportation "0.30% of sales tax collected in NOVA...$1.05 B," take a "portion of growth generated by [the] Virginia port...$2 B," and devote "75% of [budget] surplus...$860 M" to transportation. By his own estimates, McDonnell would pay for his plan with at least $5.41 billion that would normally go the General Fund to pay for education and other core priorities. (McDonnell Transportation Plan, 7/21/09)

    McDonnell's Transportation Plan "Was Notable For What It Lacked: A Permanent New Source Of Money." The Washington Post's Loudon County Extra reported: "[McDonnell's] plan was notable for what it lacked: a permanent new source of money big enough to pay for the state's mounting transportation needs.... Much of that money represents existing state revenue that currently pays for other services." (Loudon County Extra, Washington Post, 7/22/09, http://loudounextra.washingtonpost.com/news/2009/jul/22/mcdonnell-roads-plan-privatizes-abc-stores/?virginia)

    McDonnell's Plan "Is Chock Full Of Specifics, But It's Those Details That Expose Exactly How Flawed And Futile His Policies Are." In an editorial, The Virginian-Pilot wrote: "Republican Bob McDonnell's plan...is chock full of specifics, but it's those details that expose exactly how flawed and futile his policies are. Many of the ideas in his 20-page plan ring familiar because they have been rejected multiple times by state lawmakers, and McDonnell has yet to explain how he plans to recycle these clunkers into a successful road plan -- or why this time he expects passage. Instead, he goes through a complex series of contortions to give the appearance he is generating new dollars for transportation without actually committing himself to the difficult task of raising those funds. Much of the money he promises to spend on roads comes from existing revenue sources now earmarked for schools, health care and law enforcement." (Editorial, The Virginian-Pilot, 7/28/09)

    Former Republican State Senator Martin Williams

    Republican Former State Senator Martin Williams Called McDonnell's Transportation Plan "A Disaster," Adding, It "Isn't Ever Going To Happen." The Washington Post reported: "'It's a disaster,' said Republican Martin E. Williams, a former state senator from Newport News and former chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, who decided to endorse Deeds last week after seeing McDonnell's plan. 'I hadn't made up my mind yet for Creigh, but then I saw that plan,' Williams said. 'You're not going to go in there and rob $5 billion out of the general fund over 10 years and think people are going to let that happen. What's the use of putting down a plan that isn't ever going to happen?'" (Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    Former Republican State Senator Martin Williams Said McDonnell's Plan Would Take Dollars From Schools Instead Of Providing New Funding. The Washington Post reported: "As Virginia's candidates for governor battle for the state's political middle, Democratic state Sen. R. Creigh Deeds announced Wednesday that he has been endorsed by seven former Republican delegates and senators...The former lawmakers said they believed Deeds (Bath) was more likely to reach a bipartisan agreement on new funding for the state's troubled transportation network.... [Martin] Williams said he believed a transportation funding plan McDonnell announced Tuesday would take dollars from schools instead of providing new funding." (Washington Post, 7/23/09)

    Robert Chase, Executive Director Of The Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance

    The Executive Director Of The Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance Called McDonnell's Funding Plans "Downright Speculative" And Difficult To Pass. The Washington Post's Loudon County Extra reported: "Robert Chase, executive director of the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance...said every major funding source [McDonnell] proposed requires the approval of either the General Assembly or Congress, either of which would be difficult to gain. 'Some of the dollar amounts assigned to these are downright speculative,' he said." (Loudon County Extra, Washington Post, 7/22/09,http://loudounextra.washingtonpost.com/news/2009/jul/22/mcdonnell-roads-plan-privatizes-abc-stores/?virginia)

    State Senate Majority Leader Richard Saslaw

    Richard Saslaw: "We're Not Going To Take Money From Public Schools And Higher Education And Human Services To Build Roads." The Washington Post's Loudon County Extra reported: "Similarly, McDonnell's proposal to divert a fraction of sales tax receipts collected in Northern Virginia to regional road projects would leave a $105 million annual hole in the state's budget that pays for schools, public safety and other core services. 'We're not going to take money from public schools and higher education and human services to build roads,' said Democrat Richard L. Saslaw, the majority leader of the state Senate. 'A 6-year-old kid could have come up with that plan. That's no plan. That's just simply taking money from the general fund.'" (Loudon County Extra, Washington Post, 7/22/09,http://loudounextra.washingtonpost.com/news/2009/jul/22/mcdonnell-roads-plan-privatizes-abc-stores/?virginia)

    Richard Saslaw: McDonnell's "Hoping He Can Find A Highway Contractor Who Will Pour Roads For Free, But It Ain't Going To Happen." The Virginian-Pilot reported: "Senate Majority Leader Richard Saslaw, D-Fairfax County, said McDonnell's plan to pay for roads without raising new money is unrealistic....'What Bob is hoping is he can find a highway contractor who will pour roads for free, but it ain't going to happen.'" (The Virginian-Pilot, 7/22/09)


    Former Republican State Senator H. Russell Potts

    Former Senator Potts Said He Is Adamantly Opposed To McDonnell's Plan. The Washington Post's Loudon County Extra reported: "Former state senator H. Russell Potts Jr., a Republican running as an independent then, strongly opposed privatization. He said Tuesday that he is adamantly opposed to McDonnell's plan. The board that oversees ABC has a long history of being filled with good appointees from both parties, he added, and private industry would invariably try to build stores near parks and residential areas. 'It would be a redux of a situation like in Maryland, where you can have a liquor store, for God's sake, on every corner,' he said. 'All you have to do is ride down Route 1 headed toward College Park and you'll see a perfect example of that.'" (Loudon County Extra, Washington Post, 7/22/09,http://loudounextra.washingtonpost.com/news/2009/jul/22/mcdonnell-roads-plan-privatizes-abc-stores/?virginia)

    Delegate Morgan Griffith

    Delegate Morgan Griffith Opposes Privatizing ABC Stores. In an interview with the Roanoke Free Press, Delegate Morgan Griffith "expressed his opposition to privatizing Virginia's ABC stores. He does not want to see 'flashing signs saying alcohol here' all over Virginia expressing an opposite stance to Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell who's position was to privatize and use that funding for transportation."
    (Roanoke Free Press, 7/27/09, http://www.roanokefreepress.com/?p=4687)


    And More....

    Washington Post: McDonnell Proposes Paying For Roads "Largely By Diverting Money From Schools And Other Priorities." The Washington Post reported: "Republican Robert F. McDonnell has said he won't raise taxes for roads but has proposed putting hundreds of millions toward the problem largely by diverting money from schools and other priorities." (Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    Fairfax County Times: Money For McDonnell's Transportation Plan Comes Out Of Core Services Like Public Schools. An editorial in the Fairfax County Times stated: "For starters, a significant chunk of McDonnell's transportation money would come from the state's general fund, traditionally reserved to pay for core services such as public schools, higher education, health and public safety. While we understand the importance of addressing our transportation needs - we've editorialized countless times on the subject - it shouldn't be done on the backs of our schools and students." (Fairfax County Times, 7/28/09, http://www.fairfaxtimes.com/news/2009/jul/28/candidates-grapple-transit-problems/)

    Virginian-Pilot Wrote That McDonnell's Transportation Plan Could Put Virginia's Triple A Bond Rating At Risk. In an editorial, The Virginian-Pilot wrote: "[McDonnell] promises to borrow $4 billion with the not-very-comforting assurance that 'every effort will be made' to avoid 'jeopardizing our triple A bond rating.' The Virginia Department of Transportation has been authorized by legislators to borrow money, but it can't because it doesn't have the money to pay interest on the debt." (Editorial, The Virginian-Pilot, 7/28/09)

    McDonnell Would Fund Roads "Only At The Probable Expense Of The State's Colleges, Public Schools, Police Departments, Prisons And Health Programs." In an editorial, the Washington Post wrote: "Given that crisis in funding, and the centrality of transportation infrastructure to Virginia's economy, you'd think the candidates for governor would advance serious, plausible proposals -- and that they would include fresh revenue from new taxes or fees. Unfortunately, former attorney general Robert F. McDonnell, the Republican, is pushing a plan that mostly rules out such revenue and that would deliver significant new funds for road-building only at the probable expense of the state's colleges, public schools, police departments, prisons and health programs." (Editorial, Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    McDonnell Would Use Tax Revenue For Transportation That Currently Goes To The State's General Operating Fund. The Roanoke Times reported, "McDonnell said he would look to use some tax revenue that now goes to the state's general operating fund for transportation. McDonnell said he would dedicate 75 percent of future surplus budget revenue to transportation. And when general fund revenue growth exceeds 3 percent, the first 1 percent of additional growth would go toward transportation, McDonnell said." (Roanoke Times, 7/22/09)

    McDonnell Does Not Explain How He "Would Wring Out More Cash For Roads Without Harming Other Crucial State Functions And Services." In an editorial, the Washington Post wrote: "Unfortunately, the new revenue he identifies is one-time-only, many years distant or paltry. And he does not explain how, in the absence of credible, reliable new funding, he would wring out more cash for roads without harming other crucial state functions and services. For instance, Mr. McDonnell proposes borrowing $1 billion for projects in urban areas but does not say how he would find the tens of millions of dollars annually that he acknowledges would be required to pay off that debt. Mr. McDonnell says he would dedicate a portion of revenue growth and budget surpluses to transportation. Very nice, except Virginia is grappling with deep deficits. And if and when revenue growth returns, the state -- which needs 5 percent annual revenue growth just to keep even with inflation and population growth -- will need to replenish existing programs in education, health and public safety. (Editorial, Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    Much Of McDonnell's Transportation Plan Has Been Tried Before And Easily Rejected. The Washington Post reported: "[McDonnell's] approach has been criticized as unrealistic -- much of it has been tried and easily rejected before, and his plan to toll some interstates counters federal law." (Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    McDonnell Won't Identify Which Programs He Would Slash When He Diverts Tax Revenue To Roads. In an editorial, the Washington Post wrote: "Mr. McDonnell says he would take a chunk of Northern Virginia's sales tax revenue and divert it for roads. But again, he does not identify which programs he would slash to make that possible. After all, that money's not free -- it now goes to support other state functions." (Editorial, Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    McDonnell's Transportation Funding Plan Has Been Described As "Booze, Borrowing, Tolls And BS." In an op-ed in the Roanoke Times, Dan Casey criticized McDonnell's proposals for funding transportation. He wrote: "I have looked over the McDonnell plan on his campaign Web site, www.bobmcdonnell.com. You should, too. What you'll find is a patchwork that's overloaded with complexity, chock full of wishful thinking and seriously flawed overall. It can best be summarized as 'Booze, borrowing, tolls and BS.'" (Op-Ed, Dan Casey, Roanoke Times, 7/28/09)

    "McDonnell's Solutions Are Unreal." In an op-ed in the Roanoke Times, Dan Casey wrote, "VDOT closed 18 interstate rest stops last week, announced 600 layoffs Monday and forecast hundreds more later this year. Virginia's transportation problems are real, and Deeds should address them. But Bob McDonnell's solutions are unreal." (Op-Ed, Dan Casey, Roanoke Times, 7/28/09)

    Richmond Times-Dispatch Columnist, Jeff Schapiro, Criticized McDonnell's Proposals For Funding Transportation. Following the release of Bob McDonnell's transportation plan, Jeff Schapiro wrote, "McDonnell, a committed anti-taxer, vows efficiencies in transportation and education - translation: cuts - and envisions paying for these services with royalties from offshore oil and gas exploration. Problem is: Wells, if there ever are any, probably won't be up and running until after McDonnell retires - voluntarily, involuntarily? - to his front stoop." (Richmond Times-Dispatch, Jeff Schapiro Column, 6/7/09)

    In 2005, State Senator John Chichester Criticized Kilgore's Transportation Plan For Relying On General Fund Dollars, Just As McDonnell's Does. The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported: "Senate Finance Committee Chairman John H. Chichester, R-Northumberland, said bankrolling roads with general fund dollars -- income and sales tax revenues that support education, law enforcement and human services - 'won't make a dent in our transportation problem.'...The Republican-controlled General Assembly included general funds in this year's transportation initiative. But Chichester and others -- moderate Republicans and Lt. Gov. Timothy M. Kaine, Kilgore's presumed Democratic opponent for governor -- have cautioned against making a habit of such appropriations. Chichester, one of two Senate Republicans who in February withheld endorsements of Kilgore, told the finance committee, 'It encourages a dependency that can't be sustained.'" (Richmond Times-Dispatch, 5/20/05)

    PRIVATIZATION OF LIQUOR STORES

    The "Centerpiece" Of McDonnell's Transportation Plan Has Been Explored In The Past, "But It Hasn't Gone Anywhere In The General Assembly." The Washington Post's Loudon County Extra reported: "The centerpiece of McDonnell's 24-page plan is the privatization of the state's ABC stores. A commission to study government efficiency that was chartered by then-Gov. Mark R. Warner (D) and chaired by former governor L. Douglas Wilder recommended in 2002 that the state explore such a move. But it hasn't gone anywhere in the General Assembly - in January, a state senate committee voted down a privatization proposal, 13 to 2." (Loudon County Extra, Washington Post, 7/22/09, http://loudounextra.washingtonpost.com/news/2009/jul/22/mcdonnell-roads-plan-privatizes-abc-stores/?virginia)

    McDonnell's Plan To Privatize Liquor Stores Was Rejected Just This Year. The Roanoke Times reported: "McDonnell said the state can generate at least $500 million for transportation by privatizing its liquor retail operation, an idea that lawmakers have rejected as recently as this year." (Roanoke Times, 7/22/09)

    McDonnell's Plan To Privatize Liquor Stores Would Forfeit About $100 Million A Year Currently Going To Public Schools And Other Core Services. The Washington Post reported: "The centerpiece of McDonnell's proposal is to privatize the 300 state-run liquor stores -- a move that he said would generate about $500 million in one-time money that could be put toward transportation. But in selling the stores, critics said, Virginia would forfeit about $100 million in annual revenue now directed into the state's general fund, which pays for public schools, human services, prisons and other core services. McDonnell also proposed redirecting a portion of future growth in revenue from state port operations -- another raid, some said, of the general fund." (Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    Both Kaine And Kilgore Opposed Privatization Of Liquor Stores In 2005. The Washington Post's Loudon County Extra reported: "In 2005, both major party candidates opposed privatization. Gov. Timothy M. Kaine (D) said then that he wasn't convinced that it would generate increased tax revenue for the state relative to the increased costs of enforcing regulations at privately-owned locations." (Loudon County Extra, Washington Post, 7/22/09, http://loudounextra.washingtonpost.com/news/2009/jul/22/mcdonnell-roads-plan-privatizes-abc-stores/?virginia)

    McDonnell's Privatization Of Liquor Stores Would Remove Around $100 Million Annually From The General Fund. The Washington Post's Loudon County Extra reported: "For example, privatization of the liquor stores would generate at least $500 million in one-time payments to the state, plus income and property taxes over time, according to McDonnell. But about $100 million in annual earnings generated by the stores that goes to the state's general fund would be lost." (Loudon County Extra, Washington Post, 7/22/09, http://loudounextra.washingtonpost.com/news/2009/jul/22/mcdonnell-roads-plan-privatizes-abc-stores/?virginia)

    MCDONNELL OPPOSED THE STIMULUS, YET HIS TRANSPORTATION PLAN COUNTS ON IT

    In July, McDonnell Reiterated His Opposition To The Stimulus Bill. The Roanoke Times reported, "During his speech to the Kiwanis, McDonnell described his economic, energy and transportation packages. He also said he would push back against an encroaching U.S. government and criticized a number of federal laws or proposals -- including No Child Left Behind and the stimulus bill -- that he said were unwieldy and created more problems than they solved." (The Roanoke Times, 7/23/09)

    McDonnell Wants Congress To Allow $900 Million In Stimulus Spending Reserved For 2011 To Be Spent Now And Reallocated For Transportation. The Associated Press reported: "McDonnell says he also wants Congress to allow $900 million in stimulus cash reserved for 2011 to be spent in Virginia now, and to allow its use for transportation." (AP, 7/21/09,http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/V/VA_VIRGINIA_GOVERNOR_ROADS_VAOL-?SITE=VADAR&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT)

    McDonnell's Transportation Plan Calls For An Advance -- And A Reallocation -- Of Stimulus Funds From The Federal Government. In an editorial, The Virginia-Pilot wrote: "And [McDonnell] says he will ask President Barack Obama to give Virginia an advance on future stimulus funding, a request that's likely to inspire incredulity in the White House, given the Republican's opposition to previous stimulus dollars for unemployed workers." (Editorial, The Virginian-Pilot, 7/28/09)

    McDonnell's Proposal For Transportation Funding Hinges On Federal Action. The Virginian-Pilot reported: "Other anticipated transportation funds hinge on federal action. McDonnell wants permission to spend stimulus money programmed for other uses on roads, and he is counting on royalties from offshore energy drilling that hasn't yet been authorized." (The Virginian-Pilot, 7/22/09)

    ROYALTIES FROM OIL AND NATURAL GAS DRILLING

    McDonnell's Transportation Plan Counts On Money That Federal Authorities Have Not Committed To Virginia. In an editorial, The Virginian-Pilot wrote: "McDonnell counts royalties from offshore oil and natural gas drilling in his plan even though federal authorities have not committed to giving Virginia a share of those revenues." (Editorial, The Virginian-Pilot, 7/28/09)

    McDonnell's Plan Counts On Revenue That Might Not Materialize. In an editorial, the Washington Post wrote: "Mr. McDonnell's other revenue ideas include tolling Interstates 95 and 85 at the North Carolina border and tapping future income from offshore drilling. But these would require federal approvals or major private investments that might not materialize. By Mr. McDonnell's estimate, the proposed tolls would generate only $50 million a year." (Editorial, Washington Post, 7/29/09)

    HAS MCDONNELL FORGOTTEN WHERE HE CAME FROM?

    Virginian-Pilot Wrote That McDonnell's Transportation Plan Abandons His Home Region Of Hampton Roads. In an editorial, The Virginian-Pilot wrote that "it is stunning to see how [McDonnell's] plan abandons his home region of Hampton Roads. The former Virginia Beach resident proposes to immediately give Northern Virginia a cut of existing sales tax revenues generated in that region. Hampton Roads, however, may not see a dime during a McDonnell administration. The Republican says he would give Hampton Roads a share of future tax revenues from port commerce, but cargo traffic is currently down 20 percent. McDonnell predicts earnings will be restored when an expansion of the Panama Canal opens in 2014, months after the next governor has left office. (Editorial, The Virginian-Pilot, 7/28/09)

    McDonnell Says He's For High-Speed Rail To Hampton Roads, But He Reduces Rail Funding. In an editorial, The Virginian-Pilot wrote: "Finally, McDonnell says he favors higher-speed rail to Hampton Roads, but he plans to reduce rail funding earmarked in future bond issues and use the money for roads. Federal support for the passenger rail service is dependent on the state's ability to find more money for long-term operations, but McDonnell instead is back-tracking on prior commitments." (Editorial, The Virginian-Pilot, 7/28/09)

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  • Joint Leadership Release on Del. Frank Hall's Retirement

    House Democratic Leadership Joint Statement on the Retirement of Delegate Frank Hall
    Hall Served and Led for 34 Years in the House of Delegates

    Richmond, VA - House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong and House Democratic Caucus Chair Ken Plum released the following joint statement today in response to the announced retirement of Delegate Frank Hall from the 69th House of Delegates district in Richmond:

    "Delegate Hall served both his district and our Commonwealth with great distinction since his election to the House of Delegates in 1975. He was a leader on so many important issues, from health care for those who needed it, housing so more could afford it, and education so that more could move ahead in life. His accomplished business and legal background gave him a unique perspective integral to deliberations on many important issues over the last three decades. Frank also ably served the House Democratic Caucus in its greatest time of need after the 2001 redistricting as Democratic Leader. His leadership and vision have helped to revive the Democratic brand. Delegate Hall's insight and broad experience will be greatly missed in our Caucus, though we know he will continue to serve our Commonwealth honorably and with distinction for years to come."

    Delegate Frank Hall was elected to represent the City of Richmond in the House of Delegates in 1975 and his district currently includes parts of the City of Richmond and Chesterfield County. He was Chairman of the Counties, Cities and Towns Committee and a senior Democrat on the Appropriations Committee and Chairman of the Health and Human Resources Subcommittee.

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  • House Democrats Laud Budget Passage

    Federal Stimulus Funds Help Virginia Avoid More Devastating Cuts

    Richmond, VA - Today, the Virginia House of Delegates passed Virginia's budget in the midst of the worst economic crisis since World War II by an overwhelming vote of 90-8. The hundreds of millions of dollars provided by the federal stimulus package allowed Virginia to avoid thousands of additional state job cuts and significant additional cuts to core services such as education, public safety and health care.

    "Without the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan approved by Congress with President Obama's leadership, we would have been in far more trouble than we already are," said House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong. "Being able to partially fill the massive budget shortfall with nearly a billion dollars in federal stimulus money was an absolute lifeline to the Commonwealth of Virginia."

    "Nearly $500 million in stimulus funds went into education," said House Democratic Caucus Chairman Ken Plum. "I am glad that we were able to get serious about our budget situation and go from using magic money supposedly in the Water Quality Improvement Fund to real money provided by the federal government to help staunch the fiscal hemorrhaging."

    "A majority of Republicans consistently opposed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan, but were more than happy to use the money to avoid more politically unpopular cuts," said Legislative Black Caucus Chairman Kenneth Alexander.

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  • Del. Ken Melvin Announces Retirement

    Portsmouth Lawmaker Concludes Distinguished Career

    Richmond - Today, Delegate Ken Melvin of Portsmouth announced that he would be retiring from the House of Delegates after 24 years of service. As one of the longest-serving members of the House Courts of Justice Committee, Delegate Melvin has earned a reputation as an arduous defender of civil rights and a strong voice for the disadvantaged.

    “Ken Melvin has one of the sharpest legal minds of anyone I’ve ever had the privilege to work with,” said House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong. “He has devoted his career to the equal and fair distribution of the law, and this House will not be the same without him. I thank him for his service, and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.”

    “I have had the joy of working with Ken for over two decades,” added Caucus Chairman Ken Plum. “He has served this body with honor and distinction, and we will dearly miss his perspective and innumerable contributions. The Commonwealth is a better place thanks to his work.”

    Delegate Ken Melvin was elected to the House of Delegates in 1985 and is a senior member of the House Finance, Courts of Justice, and Commerce and Labor Committees. The 80th House District encompasses parts of Portsmouth, Chesapeake, and Norfolk.

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  • Crossover Post-Mortem

    House Republican Record of Accomplishment

    ~House Republicans Prove They Can Do Something Well - Kill Commonsense Bills~


    Richmond, VA - Today the House Democratic Caucus released a list of bills introduced by Democratic members that failed to pass the Republican-controlled House during the 2009 legislative session. Many of the listed bills were not passed out of committee and some received no hearing at all. It is the prerogative of Committee Chairmen to decide which bills the committee considers and which go unheard.

    “The Republican majority in the House of Delegates reminds me of a black hole,” said Democratic Caucus Chair Ken Plum, “Good bills go in, but they don’t come out. This session Delegates from both parties have introduced a number of bills aimed at improving the lives of Virginians. Unfortunately, for the legislators with a ‘D’ next to their name, even the best bills seem to enter the “Party of No” black hole, never to be seen again.

    “As we begin the second half of the 2009 session, Democrats are going to continue to work for results for Virginia. I look forward to working with members of both caucuses to solve the problems we face as a Commonwealth, and I urge my Republican colleagues to put politics aside and work across the aisle to keep Virginia moving forward.”

    Below is a partial list of bills, grouped by category, proposed by members of the House Democratic Caucus that failed to pass the House:

    CREATING JOBS AND INVESTING IN VIRGINIA

    • HB2439 (Del. Poisson - Ashburn) would have offered tax incentives for businesses hiring honorably discharged veterans.
    • HB2374 (Del. Englin - Alexandria) would have given an income tax credit to businesses that create jobs related to renewable alternative energies. Neither one was heard in committee.
    • HJ742 (Del. Hall - Richmond) would have established a two-year study to develop a strategic plan that aims to reduce the poverty rates, especially in those jurisdictions with rates above the state average.
    • HJ727 (Del. Bouchard - Virginia Beach) would have investigated ways to combat homelessness among Virginia’s veterans.

    FIGHTING FOR MIDDLE CLASS FAMILIES

    • HB2588 (Del. Englin - Alexandria) would have eliminated the food tax and cut taxes for low income Virginians and small businesses.
    • HB2196 (Del. Watts - Fairfax) would have granted an income tax deduction for certified nursing assistants and home health aides who provide Medicare-authorized home health or long-term care services to individuals in their homes.
    • HB2512 (Del. Marsden - Fairfax) would have ensured that Virginia Military Family Relief Fund benefits would not be taxed.
    • HB2195 (Del. Watts - Fairfax) would have given tax credits to families who care for a mentally or physically impaired relative.
    • HB2522 (Del. Nichols - Woodbridge) would have allowed employers with fewer than 50 employees to participate in the state health insurance plan.
    • HB1903 (Del. Armstrong - Martinsville) would have prevented Virginia merchants from charging unconscionable prices for necessary goods during a shortage.
    • HB1997, HB1959 and HB1960 (Del. Bulova - Fairfax and Del. Mathieson - Virginia Beach) would have expanded access to Virginia’s Line of Duty act and make sure that public safety employees and their families receive full benefits to cope with the sacrifices they’ve made for us.

    PROTECTING HOMEOWNERS

    • HB1093 (Del. Sickles - Fairfax) would have prohibited lenders from making a low-document, no-document, or stated-document mortgage loan unless they verified a borrower’s stated income.
    • HB77 (Del. Toscano - Albemarle) would have expanded the recordation tax exemption for certain nonprofit providers of affordable housing.

    STENGTHENING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

    • HB1608 (Del. Poisson - Ashburn) would have granted Virginia veterans who graduated at the top of their class automatic acceptance to in-state colleges, was defeated in committee with an unrecorded vote.
    • HB2295 (Del. Caputo - Fairfax) would have increased two-year college transfer grants, was also left to languish in committee.

    BROADENING ACCESS TO GOVERNMENT

    • HB2496, HB2301, HB1620, HB1621, HB1894, HB2307; HB1988, HB2110, HB2113; HB1644 (Multiple Patrons) Yet again, the House Republican majority quickly disposed of legislation to expand access to absentee voting and create a nonpartisan redistricting process. Democrats proposed a variety of no-excuse absentee voting and early voting measures in order to help assure that working men and women won’t be disenfranchised and ease the workload of local registrars. All were defeated in subcommittee.
    • HJ677, HJ623, HJ182, HJ628, HJ623 (Multiple Patrons) The GOP majority also squashed efforts to restore voting rights to former offenders who have paid their debt to society.
    • HJ702, HB1793, HB1685 (Multiple Patrons) House Democrats patroned several measures to broaden input into the re-districting process through either bipartisan or nonpartisan means - ensuring that voters choose their representatives, not the other way around. Unfortunately, all were again defeated before so much as reaching the House floor.
    • HJ668 (Del. Shannon - Vienna) would have directed the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) to study the legislature and state agences and recommend money saving improvements,.
    • HJ676 (Del. Armstrong - Martinsvile) would have directred JLARC to review the effectiveness of the Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission in its efforts in meeting its strategic plans and goals. Since its inception, the tobacco commission has never been audited.

    MEETING OUR ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES

    • HJ675, HJ704, HJ682, HB2387 (Multiple Patrons) The Republican majority defeated a variety of home energy and conservation measures this session, as well as further efforts to ensure new public buildings are as green as possible.
    • HB2157 (Del. Toscano - Albemarle) would have required all biodiesel sold in Virginia to contain at least 2% biodiesel by 2011.
    • HB2235 (Del. Shannon - Vienna) would have created a clean energy manufacturing grant program, in order to provide financial incentives to companies that manufacture or assemble equipment, systems, or products used to produce renewable energy, nuclear energy, or energy efficiency products.
    • HJ682 (Del. Vanderhye - McLean) would have directed the Virginia Department of Taxation to recommend options for restructuring the residential electric consumption tax to promote energy efficiency while remaining revenue neutral.

    ###

  • House GOP Passes Budget with $133 Million Shortfall

    Balanced Budget Required by Virginia Constitution

    Richmond, VA -For the first time in its history, the House of Delegates voted yesterday for a budget requiring deficit spending, violating Virginia’s Constitution. The deficit results from an amendment proposed by the Republican controlled House Appropriations Committee, Item 3-1.01 #3h, which proposes a transfer to the general fund of $149 million dollars from a supposed cash balance in the Department of Environmental Quality’s Water Quality Improvement Fund.

    According to the Commonwealth Accounting and Reporting System, the official system used to track all state expenditures, the Water Quality Improvement Fund balance as of Thursday, February 12th was $137,718,715.00. Bills for projects under this Fund continue to come in on a weekly basis. These projects are already under contract, under construction, and in many cases, nearing completion.

    Between now and June 30th the Commonwealth will receive bills for an additional $121 million which it is contractually obligated to pay. The balance in the Water Quality Improvement Fund is expected to be a mere $16 million by June 30th.

    “The budget passed by the House yesterday effectively has a $133 million dollar hole in it,” said House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong. “Including this amendment and passing this budget is highly irresponsible deficit spending. Virginia takes pride in its long tradition of passing balanced budgets as required by our State Constitution. We don’t need the practice of deficit spending coming across the Potomac into our Commonwealth.”

    The budget amendment does authorize the use of bonds - however, every single dollar of bond money has been committed by the Commonwealth in contracts for other projects.

    The amendment also stipulates that the transfer to the General Fund will not be made if the Commonwealth receives federal funds from a federal stimulus package. However, based on reports from Washington, it appears that Virginia will only get about $81 million in clean water funding from the federal stimulus package. Even if this money could be used to back fill the raid on the Water Quality Improvement Fund, the budget would still be $68 million dollars short. In addition, federal restrictions prohibit federal stimulus funds from being used for projects already funded and under construction. Therefore, federal stimulus funds could not be used to plug the budget deficit.

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  • Charniele Herring Takes Seat in House

    Recount Confirms Results of January 13th Special Election

    Charniele Herring was sworn in as a member of the House of Delegates this afternoon, nearly two weeks after winning a special election for the 46th House District.

    “I am happy to finally put this process behind us and get to work for the people of Alexandria and Fairfax County,” Herring said today. “These are challenging times for Virginia, and I am humbled to have earned their support.”

    “We are thrilled to have Charniele with us,” said House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong. “She will bring a unique perspective to our team, and I look forward to working with her.”

    “Charniele will be a dymanic represenative for the 46th District, and I’m delighted she’ll be joining our caucus,” added Caucus Chairman Ken Plum.

    Herring, an attorney, is the first African-American woman from Northern Virginia to be elected to the House of Delegates.

    ###

  • GOP Kills Tobacco Commission Audit

    Party Line Vote kills audit of Tobacco Commission

    Richmond, VA - Last week, House Republicans on a Rules subcommittee defeated HJ626, a measure that would have directed the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) to conduct a review of the effectiveness of the Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission (TICR) in its efforts in meeting its strategic plans and goals.

    Delegate Ward Armstrong (D-Henry) introduced the bill based on recommendations from a Blue Ribbon Review Panel report requested by the Tobacco Commission to review its structure and operations. In its report, the Panel highlighted concerns over the Tobacco Commission's structure and operations and made numerous recommendations including:

    Ask JLARC, or other appropriate entity, to conduct a performance evaluation of TICR strategy and investments being made to meet the adopted strategic plan and goal of regional economic revitalization. Use JLARC, or other appropriate entity, to help recommend and implement suitable program accountability measures.

    According the Blue Ribbon Panel report, "Using JLARC to evaluate the TICR economic revitalization strategy and assist with implementing outcome metrics and accountability measures would be helpful to the ongoing operations of the TICR."


    The mission of the Tobacco Commission is the promotion of economic growth and development in tobacco-dependent communities, using proceeds of the national tobacco settlement. To date the Commission has approved more than 1,049 grants totaling almost $502 million.

    There has never been a performance audit of the TICR since its inception in 1999.

    Although he was unable to be in attendance at the subcommittee meeting, Tobacco Commission member Jack Hite weighed in on the legislation stating, "As a member of the Virginia Tobacco Commission I supported the Baliles Commission's recommendations including the JLARC review."

    "An objective audit by an independent group such as JLARC is not something that we should be afraid of," said Delegate Armstrong. "Independent performance evaluations are considered a 'best practice' measure for private businesses and organizations. We owe it to the citizens of the Commonwealth, especially in these tough economic times, to engage in similar best practices to ensure that these large sums of money are being used and directed in the most efficient and effective ways possible."

    Philip Leone, Director of JLARC, testified before the subcommittee that JLARC was willing and able to conduct the review of the Tobacco Commission.

    The Blue Ribbon Review Panel Report can be found online at: http://www.tic.virginia.gov/


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  • House Democrats Announce 2009 Legislative Agenda

    Vow to Fight for Middle Class Families

    This morning, the Virginia House Democratic Caucus announced its agenda for the 2009 General Assembly session.


    "Democrats in the House feel the pain of our citizens," Democratic Leader Ward Armstrong said, "and we are committed to responding to the worsening economic crisis we face. House Democrats are fighting for middle class families in Virginia, working to balance the budget while protecting funding for K-12 education, and spurring our economy with investments in clean, renewable energies."


    "Our caucus agenda focuses on the needs and interests of our citizens," Caucus Chairman Ken Plum added. "While the talented men and women of our caucus have introduced many worthwhile bills, we are highlighting just a few today."


    The Democratic agenda includes measures to reinvigorate the economy, promoting renewable energy investment and energy efficiency measures, ensure the best education possible for young Virginians, and meet commitments to our veterans.


    The Economy

    House Democrats believe that we must first examine the legislative branch's spending to find cost savings. Delegate Steve Shannon has again proposed HJ 668, which directs JLARC to study legislative efficiencies and recommend money saving improvements. House Democrats will push for an additional $5 million in the budget for the Governor's Opportunity Fund to allow the Governor to attract more businesses and good paying jobs to the Commonwealth. Also, Delegate David Poisson has proposed a bill providing tax incentives for businesses hiring honorably discharged veterans (HB 2439) and Delegate David Englin has proposed a bill that provides a state income tax credit to businesses that create jobs in the renewable energy field (HB 2374).

    Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

    House Democrats also recognize the immense job creation potential in the field of renewable energy. Delegate Englin's HB 2374 will incentivize job growth in renewable energy fields. Delegate Margi Vanderhye's HJ 682 directs the Virginia Department of Taxation to recommend options for restructuring the residential electric consumption tax to promote energy efficiency while remaining revenue neutral.


    Protecting Education from the Economic Downturn

    House Democrats will once again oppose efforts to alter the Standards of Quality funding formula and place more of a burden on the already cash strapped local governments. House Democrats will work to make onetime cuts and to find payments to defer, like new textbook purchases, which do not have lasting negative effects on education funding.


    Caring for our Veterans

    In addition to the aforementioned HB 2439 from Delegate David Poisson, House Democrats are also focusing on protecting those at home who protect us abroad. In response to the homeless epidemic among our veterans, Delegate Joe Bouchard has proposed HJ 727 which instructs JLARC to study ways to combat homelessness in the veteran community. Also, Delegate Vivian Watts' HB 2192 honors and recognizes those who have given the last full measure.


    "We look forward to working with our colleagues across the aisle, the Senate, and the Governor to adopt these important measures," said Delegate Ward Armstrong.

    ###

  • House Democrats Elect New Caucus Chairmen, Vice Chairmen

    Reston's Ken Plum Elected To Chair House Democratic Caucus

    This morning, members of the House Democratic Caucus elected Delegate Ken Plum (D-36th District) as the Chairman of the Caucus. Delegate Brian J. Moran vacated his seat and leadership position in December to pursue the Democratic nomination for Governor. In the same meeting, Delegate Kris Amundson (D-44th District) and Delegate Jennifer McClellan (D-71st District) were elected as Vice Chairs.

    "I look forward to working with Delegate Plum to provide our vision for the future of Virginia in the 2009 legislative session," said House Democratic Leader Delegate Ward Armstrong. "He has proven to be a capable legislative leader since 1978, leading the way on issues from government transparency to renewable energy. I am also pleased to work with Delegate Amundson and Delegate McClellan to get our Commonwealth back on track."

    "I appreciate the support of my peers and look forward to the opportunity to lead this group of devoted representatives in the House of Delegates," said Caucus Chairman Delegate Ken Plum. "These are critical times for Virginia, with our economy in crisis and transportation in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads at a standstill, and I look forward to dealing with these and other important issues as Democratic Caucus Chairman."

    Delegate Plum represents the 36th House District, which includes the Reston area and serves as the ranking Democratic member on both the House Commerce and Labor Committee and Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee.

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  • Speaker Agrees to House Democrats' Transparency Initiative

    Desperate GOP Again Tries to Rewrite History

    House Speaker Bill Howell has announced that the upcoming General Assembly session will feature live floor video from the House of Delegates streamed over the Internet - an initiative House Democrats have proposed repeatedly in the face of GOP opposition.

    In 2007, Del. David Englin carried HR47, a resolution directing the House Clerk's office to broadcast the existing webcast of House floor video to the public at large, as the Democratic-controlled State Senate has done for several years. Currently, the House's video stream is only available on state computers in Capitol Square.

    Unfortunately, the resolution died on an unrecorded voice vote at the hands of Howell and his fellow Republicans in the Speaker's own Rules Committee. House Majority Leader Morgan Griffith, who moved to kill the measure, argued that any public broadcasting of floor video would only be viable with a full-time legislature and that lawmakers would play to the cameras, as "they want everybody back home to think they're running the place." [YouTube video, 1/31/07]

    On the opening day of the 2008 session, House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong revived the public webcast idea through a floor amendment to the proposed Rules of the House. "In furtherance of open government, it is absolutely imperative that what we do here be disseminated to the people at large," Armstrong argued on the floor.

    "I would urge that you defeat this amendment," replied former Republican Caucus Chairman Terry Kilgore. "If you want to stay here a lot longer, than you will vote for the Delegate from Henry's amendment, because that's what we'd be doing... we'll be just like Congress. Every night, somebody will be in here making a speech with nobody else in here and somebody else serving as Speaker up there as they do traditionally on C-SPAN at night." [House floor, 1/9/08]

    The Republican majority sided with Kilgore, killing the amendment on a 55-43 vote.

    "I'm glad the Speaker has finally come around to an initiative we've been pushing for more than two years now - although it seems to me that his sudden commitment to transparency in government has more to do with Republican electoral prospects than the best interest of Virginians," Del. Armstrong said today. "In either case, I hope Virginians will be watching."

    "We shouldn't be too hard on the Speaker -- after all, it takes courage for House Republicans to admit that House Democrats were right all along," added Del. Englin. "Of course, President-elect Obama won the Speaker's district, so maybe Republicans are adopting these long-held Democratic positions because they see the writing on the wall. House Democrats have championed these transparency measures for years, and I'm glad to see House Republicans now joining our efforts to shine a light on what happens in the General Assembly."

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  • House Democrats Prevail on Open Government Measure

    GOP Majority Finally Sees the Light on Public Accountability


    According to news reports, Speaker Bill Howell has declared that the House of Delegates will record subcommittee votes during the upcoming General Assembly session. This represents a dramatic turnaround for the GOP, which has refused to record the votes since subcommittees were given killing power in 2006.

    House Democrats have continually fought the undemocratic rule change since its introduction, but have been defeated on party-line votes each time. [HR48, 1/19/07; Floor amendment to Proposed Rules of the House, 1/9/08]

    Delegate Ken Plum and Delegate Shannon Valentine even sent a letter to their colleagues earlier this month encouraging House Republicans to reconsider their position of opposing recorded subcommittee votes.

    "Public support for transparency in government is overwhelming." said Delegate Plum in response to today's news. "Clearly, a vote in the House of Delegates without binding caucus rules would have resulted in this change. I am pleased that the Republican caucus has finally come around on this issue."

    "When citizens learn that votes are not recorded in subcommittees of the House of Delegates, they are surprised and disappointed," added Delegate Valentine. "Open, honest government that is accountable to Virginians is critical if we going to address the serious issues facing our Commonwealth."

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  • House GOP Proven Clueless on Jobs

    GOP Claimed Qimonda was 'in Virginia to stay'

    This week's announcement that a computer chip manufacturer in Henrico County will be laying off over a thousand workers shouldn't have surprised members of the House of Delegates - they were warned this would happen eight months ago.

    Gov. Kaine's proposed budget this year would have accelerated almost $14 million in grant payments due to Qimonda AG for meeting investment and job creation criteria under the Semiconductor Memory or Logic Wafer Manufacturing Performance Grant Program II.

    Unfortunately, the Republican-controlled House Appropriations committee removed this provision, leading to an objection from Henrico Delegate Joe Morrissey on the House floor during the February floor debate. [HB30, Item 105 #1h, 2/21/08]

    Del. Morrissey argued that the grant acceleration was needed to help Qimonda keep pace in the "ultra-competitive" field of chip manufacturing. He added that the company has invested $3.2 billion and 2,700 jobs in Henrico County while contributing $192 million in tax revenue.

    Del. Morrissey specifically warned that "over a thousand jobs" may be lost if the request was delayed.

    In response, GOP Whip Kirk Cox said that "I met with the representatives of Qimonda who were very clear with me that they would love to have this, but they are here in Virginia to stay."

    Henrico County Delegates Bill Janis, John O'Bannon, Riley Ingram, and Jimmie Massie voted with Cox to deny the grant acceleration, along with Richmond Delegate Manoli Loupassi and Republican Caucus Chairman Sam Nixon and Lee Ware of Chesterfield County.

    Yesterday, Qimonda announced that it will be cutting 40 percent of its Henrico work force, leaving 1,200 employees out of work by January. Today's Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that the company's future is "uncertain."

    "House Republicans, like their brethren in Washington D.C., have once again proven that they have no clue what middle-class men and women are facing," said Del. Joe Morrissey. "They turned the other way when Virginia workers needed help. President Bush's economic policies may not trickle down to the middle-class, but his ideas have certainly trickled down to Virginia Republicans."

    The full, five-minute exchange on the budget amendment can be viewed here:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vTuH_KjK7I 

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  • House Republicans Ignore Rising Gas Prices

    Knee-Jerk Partisanship Undermines Gas Price Relief for Virginia Families

    RICHMOND -- Yesterday, House Democratic Leaders announced that they will patron legislation during the 2009 General Assembly session to strengthen the Virginia Post-Disaster Anti-Price Gouging Act. Within a matter of hours, House Republicans signaled their intent to oppose the measure.

    House Democratic Leader Ward Armstrong's bill will clarify language in the code to provide for investigation of oil companies suspected of selling goods at unconscionable prices in Virginia during a state of emergency, and will expand the circumstances in which the Anti-Price Gouging Act could be triggered to include states of emergency declared outside of Virginia.

    "This has nothing to do with price gouging, it has nothing to do with trying to keep the price of gasoline low," Del. Bill Janis (R-Henrico) hastily responded to Richmond's NBC12. "What this has everything to do with is... trying to score political points."

    This is hardly the first time Janis and his counterparts have let partisanship cloud their vision. In July, Speaker Bill Howell's Rules committee advanced a transportation bill to the House floor with a six-cent gas tax attached. An amendment offered by Del. Armstrong and supported by House Democrats removed the provision.

    "This is a politically motivated session. That's all it is," Janis said at the time. [Richmond Times-Dispatch, 6/24/08]

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  • House Democrats Call for Strengthening Anti-Price Gouging Legislation

    House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong Proposes Changes to Virginia Post-Disaster Anti-Price Gouging Act

    RICHMOND, VA – House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong (D-Henry) today announced that he will patron legislation during the 2009 General Assembly session to strengthen the Virginia Post-Disaster Anti-Price Gouging Act.

    Armstrong’s bill will clarify language in the code to provide for investigation of oil companies suspected of selling goods at unconscionable prices in Virginia during a state of emergency. The bill also expands the circumstances in which the Anti Price Gouging Act could be triggered to include states of emergency declared outside of Virginia.

    Gasoline prices skyrocketed in parts of Virginia in the days leading up to and including the Texas landfall of Hurricane Ike. Price gouging investigations in the wake of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike highlighted potential weaknesses in the current law. The changes proposed today will ensure that the Commonwealth has the tools necessary to fully protect Virginia’s consumers, small businesses, and retailers from unconscionable price gouging.

    “In my district the price of gasoline jumped fifty cents or more a gallon before Ike even hit and before we knew if there would be any damage to the oil rigs or refineries in the Gulf. These dramatic price increases occurred even as the price of oil dropped below $100 a barrel for the first time in weeks. Most retailers must pass along their increased costs to consumers, so if the oil companies are gouging, everyone down the line suffers,” said Armstrong. “During times of disaster we have a proud tradition of coming together to support and aid our community and neighbors. Taking advantage of the misfortune of others should not be tolerated at any level,”

    Currently 29 states have consumer protection legislation against price-gouging. Several states, including Florida and North Carolina, provide for action against all classes of sellers of consumer goods.

    The Virginia Post-Disaster Anti-Price Gouging Act was enacted in 2004 and strengthened in 2006 in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

    Video of today’s press conference is available online at:
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owspZSlq_tU

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  • House GOP Kills Transportation Solution

    Party of "no" obstructs compromise solutions, opposes tax cut
    Virginians told to remain in traffic


    RICHMOND - Today the Republican Majority of the House of Delegates killed the first comprehensive transportation funding solution to reach a floor vote in years. Yesterday, House Democrats announced an amendment that would have maintained the Senate plan for statewide funding solutions and to cut the food tax, while not raising the gas tax. Senate Democrats endorsed the approach. House Republicans voted against over $5.5 billion plan for roads, mass transit, and maintenance over the next 7 years, even after Democrats announced provisions that lowered taxes on food and did not raise the gas tax.

    Virginia's business community, including statewide and regional Chambers of Commerce, consistently call for action on critical infrastructure needs essential to a strong economy. The people of Virginia are clear in their call for relief from crippling traffic congestion in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads. House Republicans have opposed every single transportation solution.

    "This package was essential to building a strong business climate and getting Virginia moving again. I can't believe they opposed a plan that would have created 35,000 new jobs in Virginia in this struggling economy," said Brian Moran, Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus. "People will continue to be stuck in traffic and families will travel on unsafe bridges because of this abdication of leadership."

    The amendment offered today addressed the statewide maintenance deficit, regional congestion in Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia, and reduced the sales tax on food by 20%. The amended transportation plan would generate approximately $5.5 billion over the next 7 years - nearly 80% of the plan's original revenue.

    "The Republicans never offered a comprehensive plan of their own. They said 'no' to the Governor's plan. They said 'no' to compromise. Now, they've said 'no' to any solution at all. Virginia deserves real leadership not this Republican game playing. They continuously obstruct, oppose and delay," said House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong.

    Demand for transportation is outstripping supply: 9% of Virginia's road miles have been built in the last 20 years. In the same time, Virginians are traveling 80% more, own 61% more cars and there are 36% more drivers.

    "When I called the special session, I asked that the legislature work together to find a solution to our transportation funding challenges," said Governor Tim Kaine. "The House and Senate Democrats rose to the challenge and came together to move Virginia closer to a meaningful transportation solution. But House Republican leadership, once again, stood in the way, rejecting legislation that originated in the Senate. The citizens of Virginia deserved better."

    "The House Republicans killed a plan that brought us one step closer to a transportation solution yet failed, for years, to come up with a comprehensive plan of their own," said Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw.

    "For years they have failed to act and for years our traffic congestion has gotten worse," said Mary Margaret Whipple, Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus.

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  • Party of NO Strikes Again: House Republicans Kill Transportation Solution

    Republicans Still Don't Have a Plan of Their Own

    RICHMOND, VA - Today, House Republicans killed a transportation solution that had a chance of passing the General Assembly. Yet the Republican leadership has not proposed its own plan. By blocking the Governor’s transportation bill (HB6026), they ignored the pleas from Virginians and our business community to find a real transportation solution. House Republicans voted against fixing our broken bridges, maintaining our roadways, and relieving congestion in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads. Instead of choosing solutions, they chose to play political games and gimmicks, advancing a Senate bill containing a gas tax increase which they have stated that they will not support.

    “I asked the Republicans what they would like to see in place of the components of the Governor’s bill they disliked. They had no response. They had no ideas. They had no alternative plan,” said Delegate Ward Armstrong. “Yet, today they voted no on advancing the Governor’s bill and yes to advancing a gas tax bill. We are the oldest continuously meeting legislative body in the new world but today we resembled a Banana Republic with the House Rules Committee playing the role of a Kangaroo Court. The House Republican leadership once again chose political gamesmanship over taking responsibility and fixing our transportation problems.”

    “The Republican leadership isn’t interested in solving problems, they’re interested in scoring points,” said House Democratic Caucus Chairman Brian Moran. “They keep finding new and different ways to say NO to solving our problems. And they’re more interested in playing political games, then helping Virginia’s economy and citizens stuck in traffic.”

    Playing Games with Transportation

    • Speaker Howell has yet to present a Republican transportation solution, even after promising to have one in time for special session.
    • House Republicans continue to insist that they can find transportation money in an audit of VDOT – even though they’ve already done eight of them.
    • Republicans excused Delegate Chris Saxman attendance to present his own bill so that no one could ask questions of the patron.
    • Republicans filed a new bill late evening intended to leave legislators scrambling to even read it before it was considered.

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  • GOP has "no plan and no vision" for transportation

    The Republican leadership has clearly stated that they have no idea how to solve our transportation crisis, relieve congestion on our roadways, ensure the safety of our highways and bridges, or make investments that will grow our economy. When faced with Virginia’s growing transportation crisis, Republicans have only one response-“NO.”

    Republicans offer NO plan or vision…

    “‘I don't have a particular plan or vision,’ said [Attorney General Bob] McDonnell when queried yesterday in a conference call with reporters on how he would fix the 2007 transportation plan gutted last month by the Virginia Supreme Court.” (Richmond Times-Dispatch, 3/26/08)

    Republicans have spent NO time working to solve the problem….

    “House Majority Leader H. Morgan Griffith (R-Salem) said he did not even bother to show up for the second meeting with Kaine and other legislators because Democrats insist on considering only plans that call for statewide tax increases. ‘It's dead on arrival. Until that issue is put on the backburner, I don't see us agreeing on anything,’ he said.” (Washington Post, 4/25/08) 

    Republicans say NO to even considering proposed solutions…

    “Del. David B. Albo, a Fairfax Republican involved in transportation negotiations, said Kaine's plan had a ‘0.000 percent chance’ of winning approval… Minutes after Kaine unveiled his proposal, House Majority Leader H. Morgan Griffith (R-Salem) and Minority Whip M. Kirkland Cox (R-Colonial Heights) predicted it would not reach the House floor. ‘I don't see anything positive in the governor's plan that makes it something that's likely to be considered,’ Cox said.” (Washington Post, 5/13/08)

    “[A]nti-tax Republicans who control the House of Delegates suggested the plan was all but dead on arrival. They said they have only to decide how to kill it – ‘whether we send it into a conference or if we just go home,’ said House Majority Leader H. Morgan Griffith, R-Salem.

    Republicans say NO to working towards bipartisan compromise…

    “‘The governor has the prerogative to call us back into special session and waste the taxpayers' money if he so has the desire,’ said House Republican Leader Morgan Griffith of Salem. Asked if the proposal would ever reach the House floor, Griffith said, ‘I see it on the floor, but not the floor of the House.’” (Daily Press, 5/13/08)

    Republicans say NO when asked to acknowledge the problem…

    “‘What we need to do is figure out how we can implement the fees that were structured last year instead of having a statewide transportation crisis created out of thin air,’ said House Majority Leader Morgan Griffith, R-Salem.” (Examiner, 4/4/08)  

    Republicans say NO to fixing Virginia’s ongoing transportation crisis but Virginians are saying NO to failed Republican leadership…

    “Virginia Republicans wasted no time declaring Gov. Tim Kaine’s latest road-funding plan dead on arrival. But they have offered no cogent plan of their own. Perhaps they propose to use pixie dust to pay to build and maintain the state’s bridges and roads.” [Bristol Herald Courier, 5/14/08]

    “Partisanship has gotten in the way of any road plan that looked like it had the green light. The Republicans stopped the process cold every chance they could.” [Virginia News Leader, 5/15/08]

    “The governor has proposed a substantive, sensible and sustainable package of taxes and fees that would inject around $1 billion of new funding annually into the state's transportation budget -- a minimal infusion, given the massive needs. His program, which he plans to present next month to a special session of the General Assembly, is already under attack from a state GOP whose unrelenting hostility to investing in basic infrastructure is matched only by its contempt for Northern Virginia's most critical needs…” [Washington Post, 5/13/08]

    “The Republicans in the General Assembly have an obligation to shed their obstinacy and offer a comprehensive alternative.” [Northern Virginia Daily, 5/14/08]

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  • House Majority Leader's Solution to Transportation: Give Up

    Delegate Morgan Griffith Declares Transportation Talks “Dead on Arrival” and Refuses to Show Up to Meeting to Discuss Transportation

    (Richmond, Va.) — Virginians throughout the Commonwealth trapped in gridlock can once again thank the Republican majority in the House of Delegates who continue to put their heads in the sand in hopes that Virginia’s transportation problems magically disappear.

    House Majority Leader Morgan Griffith was quoted in the Washington Post today saying that he has given up on trying to fix Virginia’s transportation problems and did not show up to a Wednesday, April 2 meeting to find a solution:

    House Majority Leader H. Morgan Griffith (R-Salem) said he did not even bother to show up for the second meeting with Kaine and other legislators...

    It's dead on arrival. Until that issue is put on the backburner, I don't see us agreeing on anything," he said. (Washington Post, 4/25/08)

    “Apparently giving up on issues critically important to Virginia is what the House Republicans consider leadership,” Senator Mary Margaret Whipple (D-Arlington), Senate Democratic Caucus chair, said.

    “We have been working with the Governor and trying to work with members of the House of Delegates on the other side of the aisle to find a solution to our transportation problems. It is clear to everyone the need for a state-wide fix and these problems don’t get solved by declaring it ‘dead on arrival’ and refusing to participate in discussions,” she said.

    House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong (D-Henry) was not surprised by Morgan Griffith and the House Majority’s failed leadership in fixing transportation.

    “Morgan Griffith couldn’t waste his time meeting with legislative leaders to discuss transportation, but clearly has no problem wasting the time of commuters stuck in traffic in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads.

    “Last year Republicans took the lead on a transportation plan and what they came up with was abuser fees and a plan that was ruled unconstitutional. Now we are trying to work together on a common-sense solution that will fix our transportation problems across the Commonwealth, and Morgan Griffith refuses to even show up for a meeting. This is indicative of the poor leadership the House Majority has shown over the last several sessions,” he said.

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Paid for and authorized by the Virginia House Democratic Caucus