VA business leaders speak up, thank Republicans

Speaker Bill Howell addressed a news conference earlier this week with remarks about Virginia's unemployment benefits. He was joined by business leaders from throughout Virginia including Donnie Caffrey, owner and president of Good Foods Groceries; John Nicholson, co-owner of Company Flowers; Debra Girvin, president of Lochlyn Company; and James Hatcher, president of Pleasant Hardware.

In a press release:

Standing united in support of policies that help people in need, encourage job creation and promote sustainable economic growth, Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates William J. Howell (R-Stafford) and House Republican Majority Caucus Chairman Samuel A. “Sam” Nixon, Jr. (R-Chesterfield) today joined with business owners and employers from across Virginia to detail the positive impact on job retention and creation of Virginia Republicans’ recent actions on unemployment insurance. At the April 8 reconvened session of the 2009 General Assembly, the House of Delegates approved a temporary 13-week extension in unemployment benefits, lowered health insurance costs for laid-off workers and small business, and rejected amendments by Governor Kaine to SB 1495 that would have permanently expanded state unemployment insurance benefits resulting in higher per-employee taxes for Virginia businesses.

“Republicans know that a robust, growing economy is key to helping laid-off workers, families and taxpayers who are hurting, thereby freeing businesses and entrepreneurs to invest in job creation and expand opportunities,” remarked Speaker Howell. “Virginia businesses that will create the jobs necessary to return our economy to prosperity understand that permanently expanding our state unemployment insurance system will result in higher taxes on jobs, creating a disincentive for new hires and business investment. Acting in a caring and responsible manner, Republicans have taken appropriate steps to assist unemployed Virginians during this economic recession. But, we also recognize that the goal of a laid-off worker is not a short-term government check, but rather a full-time job in a thriving business. I appreciate the support of so many Virginia business owners and leaders. Together, we are going to continue working to create jobs for Virginians and revitalize our state’s economy for the long-term. That’s the top priority for Republicans.”

Republicans are looking out for the long-term interests of Virginians.