Bill Bolling: 'Compromise ... elevate policy above politics'

By Bill Bolling
Richmond Times-Dispatch

Everyone saw it coming.

When the 2014 session of the Virginia General Assembly convened Jan. 8, everyone knew that the key debate would be over Medicaid expansion or coverage expansion, as proponents now prefer to call it.

Unfortunately, although everyone saw it coming, no one was able to avoid what everyone feared — another impasse that leaves the state without a budget agreement at the close of the annual legislative session.

At this point, there are two questions that matter: (1) Why did this impasse occur, and (2) What can be done to forge a compromise between the governor and the state Senate, who favor expansion, and the House of Delegates, which opposes expansion?

While it is easy to try and blame one party or another for the impasse, the reality is that this is a difficult issue to resolve because no one is necessarily right or wrong in the positions they have taken.

When Gov. McAuliffe and Senate leaders say they believe the business case for expansion has been made, they are right.

Over the next 10 years, Virginia families and businesses will pay about $26 billion in higher taxes and fees to finance the Affordable Care Act. Literally, the only way that we can get a portion of this money returned to Virginia is through the expansion of Medicaid. That is a compelling argument for expansion.

In addition, some studies have estimated that a full Medicaid expansion could provide as many as 400,000 Virginians, most of whom are working full-time, with health insurance and access to health care, coverage they do not currently have. That is a noble goal.

On the other hand, when Republicans in the House of Delegates express concern regarding the federal government’s ability to fund the Affordable Care Act over time, they are also right. Experts have estimated that the Affordable Care Act could cost the federal government $151 billion when fully enacted. At a time when our country already faces a national debt of $18.2 trillion, and an annual budget deficit of $514 billion, everyone should be concerned about the federal government’s ability to support another costly entitlement program.

And, if the federal government decides that it cannot afford to continue paying its share of the cost of Medicaid expansion, it could pass a larger portion of these costs on to state governments. Should this happen, it would be very difficult for the commonwealth to continue to pay for the cost of Medicaid expansion and continue to fund its other important priorities at the same time.

These are also legitimate concerns.

While it is tempting to criticize both sides for the impasse that has occurred to date, in reality both sides have set forth positions that are eminently justifiable. No one is necessarily right or wrong in the positions they have taken, and their respective positions should be respected and considered.

So, the question becomes: Where do we go from here? Two options remain.

First, the parties can continue to stand firm on their respective positions and refuse to negotiate or compromise. This is the wrong course and it will ultimately prolong the impasse and bring us closer to the possibility of a government shutdown.

While this type of high-stakes political brinksmanship may excite the most ideologically driven voices in both parties, it would clearly not be in the best interests of the commonwealth. Now is the time for the voices of reason to rise above the voices of unreason.

The second course is more preferable, but it will require the parties to recognize the legitimacy of the positions taken by their adversaries and try to find common ground — common ground that would enable us to reach an agreement on the issue of Medicaid expansion and pass a budget that addresses the other important priorities of state government.

Having spent 18 years in state government, I am confident that there is a way to resolve this dispute that enables us to move forward with some form of coverage expansion under acceptable terms and conditions that recognizes legitimate concerns regarding affordability and the need for continuing Medicaid reforms.

Those who know anything about the successful operation of government know that compromise is an indispensible part of a working democracy. With it, differences can be respected and bridged. Without it, ideology trumps practicality and government simply does not work.

The question is, are our elected officials willing to provide the leadership that is necessary to forge such a compromise against a political backdrop that too often considers compromise a sign of political weakness?

Or put differently, are our elected officials willing to elevate policy above politics, and keep their focus on the next generation, as opposed to the next election? The people of Virginia are watching closely to see which course they choose.

Bill Bolling is chairman of the Virginia Mainstream Project, a political action committee dedicated to promoting a mainstream approach to government and politics in Virginia. He is the former lieutenant governor of Virginia and a former member of the Virginia state Senate. Contact him at www.billbolling.com.

George Allen remembers his friend Senator Benny Lambert

Former Virginia Governor and U.S. Senator George Allen lost a friend over the weekend. Former State Senator Benny Lambert, who served in the General Assembly for three decades, passed away in Richmond after an illness.

In 2006, when Allen -- a Republican -- was up for reelection for U.S. Senate, Senator Lambert -- a Democrat -- endorsed his friend who had supported Virginia's historic black colleges. It caused him his seat when Democrats, outraged that Lambert had supported Allen, primaried and beat him with Don McEachin who remains in the senate.

Allen remembered his friend in a statement:

“Susan and I are terribly saddened by the passing of the truly Honorable Benny Lambert. Along with Ronald Reagan and Jack Kemp, Benny is one of the most exceptionally courageous, decent and inspirational people I ever had the honor to work with in public service.

“I am proud to have collaborated with Benny and many other teammates in business, education and governance to strengthen our Historically Black Colleges and Universities with better technology funding. Virginia and America are better because of Benny's passion, commitment, and leadership for educating our young people.

“Susan and I feel blessed to have had Benny as a true friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Benny’s wife Carolyn and their children and grandchildren. Heaven will have Benny's always-cheerful demeanor lighting up hearts and we will continue to admire his principled example in life.”

In 2006 the Richmond Times-Dispatch wrote about Senator Lambert's thoughtful endorsement of Senator Allen, saying in part:

It is not hard to earn the title, "politician." It is much more difficult to transcend to the level of "leader." State Senator Benjamin Lambert is not a mere politician.

As a graduate of Virginia Union University, Lambert cares deeply about the mission of historically black colleges and universities -- as do many in his Richmond-based district. Over the years he has worked closely with Senator George Allen to support HBCUs, and that led to collaborations on a number of other issues. The ease with which the relationship produced tangible results caused Lambert to make an endorsement many thought unlikely.

Lambert has put politics aside, and endorsed the candidate he feels can advance the needs of his district and the Commonwealth -- despite the pull of party and ideologues. It also should be noted that his endorsement of Allen does reflect a consistency not often found in politics: Lambert couldn't bring himself to support Jim Webb in the Democratic primary, and found no "new" Webb during the general election. His independent stand contrasts with that of the General Assembly's Legislative Black Caucus, which last week did what everyone knew it would do: Endorse the Democratic candidate, in this case Jim Webb.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch has more on the life and public service of this well-respected man. Prayers to his family and friends, and those who stood by him when the others turned against him.

2014 Va General Assembly: It's a new day in Richmond

Headlines and blogs are blaring the news from Richmond's General Assembly: Democrats wrest control of state senate from GOP. And it all began here: RTD: GOP State Central wrong reversing to convention.

The rest, as they say, is history....

Governor McDonnell, former Governor Allen remember Margaret Thatcher's 1995 visit to Richmond

Virginia Governor George Allen with Great Britain's former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher who addressed the General Assembly with a 20-minute speech.

February 1995

George Allen, who was Virginia Governor during the 1995 visit, remembered Margaret Thatcher today, writing, "Susan and I mourn the loss of one of the world's greatest leaders, Margaret Thatcher. Our meetings with the 'Iron Lady' were always informative and invigorating, and she projected an eternally optimistic view, as did her partner Ronald Reagan, in the advancement of freedom. Indeed, Ronald Reagan, Pope John Paul and Margaret Thatcher were the essential, unified trio that lead to the fall of the Iron Curtain. We enjoyed learning from Lady Thatcher in England and when she came to Richmond for an historic address at our Virginia Capitol."

Governor Bob McDonnell also remembered that day in Richmond. He released a statement that noted, “With great sadness, I learned of the passing of Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Throughout her career, including 15 years as leader of the Conservative Party, Prime Minister Thatcher kept to her principles and used her remarkable talents to achieve positive results for the country she loved. As the first female prime minister of the United Kingdom she set an example for generations to come by leading with courage, grace, and unfaltering resolve.

"In my fourth year in the legislature in 1995, Baroness Thatcher addressed the Virginia General Assembly in Richmond, saying ‘those unwilling to live the strenuous life of liberty; those who do not value freedom for its own sake, rather than its comforts, are unlikely to hold on to it… when I consider all that this place has given to democracy, I am moved to say that in spirit, I am a Virginian.’ Virginia stands with the people of Britain in mourning the passing of this pioneering leader and in reflecting on her life of service.”

Virginia General Assembly convenes today ... Bolling, Obenshain ready to lead

Virginia's legislators have traveled from all corners of the state to gather in Richmond for the beginning of the 2012 General Assembly. The bustle in the Commonwealth's capital increases each year as lawmakers, lobbyists, tourists, and interested citizens check out the proceedings of government in action.

According to State Senator Mark Obenshain (R-Harrisonburg), over 3,000 bills are on the docket for this session that is slated to run through mid-March. Legislators like Obenshain will stay in contact with constituents at home while spending most of the next two months in Richmond meeting with committees and participating in the day-to-day business of lawmaking.

All citizens are encouraged to visit during session, sitting in overhead balconies to watch the action on the floor below. It's a fascinating process and often moves at breakneck speed but watching from above allows visitors to not only see their representatives but also get a peek into the debate as bills are advanced, defended, batted down, or sent back to committee.

As in the past, Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling (R) will preside over the State Senate that finds itself evenly divided this year between Republicans and Democrats with Bolling acting as the tie-breaker. Democrats, unhappy at this change of events after years of controlling the senate, filed a lawsuit in December contesting Bolling's control.

Bolling agreed that he had control over organization but perhaps not the budget and some have wondered if that's what he really wanted all along since no tie votes for the budget seem to have played into previous sessions, according to the Washington Post:

“Perhaps the lieutenant governor’s not giving too much away,” said [A.E. Dick Howard, a constitutional law expert at the University of Virginia], who reviewed 100 years of Senate history and found not a single instance in which there was a tie vote on a budget. “It may well be the ability to vote on organization was, frankly, more important to him.”

The Post noted that senate Democrats planned to fight tooth-and-nail for control by using parliamentary maneuvering and lawsuits. Keep an eye on Bolling, a veteran at the job as president of the senate. The back-and-forth tussle for power is sure to provide some entertaining, teachable moments for viewers.

Meanwhile, local legislators like Obenshain are carrying bills that have been presented to them by constituents. For the Harrisonburg Republican who is running for Attorney General, this year's wish list includes eminent domain and strengthening private property rights, keeping Virginia as a right-to-work state, voter registration by party, and school choice. More on these important issues can be found at his website.

Many legislators have opinion surveys on their websites asking for input from citizens who can also follow the daily proceedings at the Capitol by checking the Virginia General Assembly website on a regular basis.

The 2012 session is off and running....

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift

Opening day of 2011 Virginia General Assembly

It's the opening day of the 2011 Virginia General Assembly as politicians from across the Commonwealth gather in Richmond for this year's short session.

The House of Delegates and the Senate of Virginia offer live streaming video of the 2011 Legislative Sessions, when each body convenes for session. 

Governor Robert F. McDonnell's address to the General Assembly will be streamed live via this website at 7 pm Wednesday, January, 12, 2011.

The Virginia House of Delegates and the Senate of Virginia now have Twitter accounts, VAHouse and VASenate. The first tweets from the Virginia General Assembly were during the Special Session on August 19, 2009. Future Virginia General Assembly Twitter accounts will be tagged under #Virginia#Legislature.

Know who your legislators are and how to contact them. If you don't know who represents you, find out by using Who's My Legislator. Due to this widely used online service, calling the 800 number for Constituent Viewpoint has been eliminated. Who's My Legislator gives you the ability to email your Delegate, Senator as well as contact information for your representatives in the US House of Representatives and US Senate.

SWAC area joint town hall update

A first in my memory and that of others, the three delegates who cover various areas of of the SWAC area -- Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County -- held a join town hall meeting Thursday night at the point closest to where the three districts meet.

A crowd of about 50 people turned out at Stump Elementary School in Stuarts Draft to listen to Del. Steve Landes, Del. Ben Cline, and Del. Dickie Bell address issues and listen to questions and ideas from constituents.

A brief update by each delegate reinforced that the upcoming General Assembly session that begins next week will be just as challenging as last year's as they tackle issues like jobs, transportation, education, illegal immigration, ABC privatization, and economic development.

The short session, which begins January 12, lasts 45 days so the pace will be fast as they cover those issues and more.

Del. Cline commented that they are beginning to see the economy turn around a bit after two consecutive years of negative growth in the Commonwealth, something not seen before. He joked that it was like a new lawn that was beginning to flourish but it wasn't time yet to mow because it still needed fertilizer and watering.

Del. Landes was interested in economic development to bring jobs into Virginia and said they were tracking to see what works and what doesn't, encouraging investment in small businesses to create new jobs. He also suggested a study to consider the pros and cons of year-round schools in Virginia.

Questions from the audience were answered by the delegates for about an hour and 45 minutes and covered subjects from education to the state budget. The delegates encouraged everyone to contact their offices and to stop by and visit while the General Assembly is in session in Richmond.

More about last night's meeting can be found at the Staunton News Leader.

Del. Dickie Bell resigns teacher position to remain in VA General Assembly

In the summer of 2009, when popular five-term Del. Chris Saxman (R-20th House) unexpectedly decided to retire from the Virginia House of Delegates during his reelection campaign, long-time Staunton City Councilman Dickie Bell was tapped to run as the Republican candidate.

Caught off guard at the sudden opportunity but rising to the occasion, the future seemed bright for this special education teacher in the Augusta County public school system located in the central Shenandoah Valley. He handily won his election with 71% of the vote during the history-making 2009 election that saw Republican candidates sweep the top three spots of governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general.

Getting time off from school to attend the 2010 General Assembly in January and February became somewhat of an issue with the school system but was eventually resolved when he was granted unpaid leave. Part of the agreement, Bell thought, was the additional days necessary for all legislators who have committee meetings scheduled throughout the year in Richmond.

Bell is hardly unique in holding a teaching job while serving as a representative. The Virginia General Assembly includes a college professor, an education administrator, four currently-employed teachers, and two retired educators. Former Rockingham Sen. Kevin Miller taught at James Madison University while representing that area of the Shenandoah Valley.

Now comes news that Del. Bell has announced his retirement from the Augusta County public school system because he was not able to obtain the days off beyond session, days needed to continue his work in the General Assembly.

Harrisonburg's WHSV TV-3 reported:

[Bell] had an agreement that he would take unpaid days off while the General Assembly was in session. He also took another seven unpaid days off this year, after the session ended, to do other legislative matters. Bell says that was part of the agreement but now the school board says he cannot take those extra days next year.

According to reporter Bob Stuart at the Waynesboro News Virginian, school board chairman John Ochletree expressed the school system's concern in a written response to Del. Bell:

“We are pleased to accommodate you and support you as a citizen legislator in the Virginia General Assembly. We trust, however, that you recognize that your extended absence from your teaching duties creates hardship for the school division and that the board must strike a reasonable balance between meeting the instructional needs of our students and accommodating your service in the legislature.”

After trying to resolve the issue for the past two months, Del. Bell has now handed in his letter of resignation to the school superintendent and will no longer teach special education in the Augusta County schools.

Cross-posted at The Washington Examiner

RPV Chairman Pat Mullins comments on end of Session

From RPV Chairman Pat Mullins...

"I want to congratulate our Republican team in the State Senate and the House of Delegates for the extraordinary job they did during the 2010 legislative session.

"Faced with the worst budget picture since the Great Depression, our legislative team did an extraordinary job protecting taxpayers and Virginia's economy during this difficult session. Republicans in the House and Senate fought off Democratic efforts to reinstate the car tax and raise their income taxes.

"Republicans also worked across party lines to stand up against power grabs from Washington, D.C., bring new innovation and ideas to our schools and put the Commonwealth on the road to be the 'Energy Capitol of the East Coast.' Republicans and Democrats alike can be proud of the fact that they've kept taxes low and preserved the Commonwealth as the best place in the country to do business."

When is a tax increase not a tax increase?

In the waning days of the 2010 Virginia General Assembly, talk of the budget is on the minds of everyone including our own Lt. Governor Bill Bolling. Today he put pen to paper (keyboard to monitor?) and shared his thoughts:

As I write this column, budget conferees from the Senate and House of Delegates are meeting to reconcile their differences and adopt a new state budget for the 2010-2012 biennium. While it may be a gross over simplification, their ultimate task really comes down to two things

First, they must agree on how much tax revenue the state will receive in the upcoming biennium. In other words, how much money do they have to spend? Then, they must agree on how they want to spend that money.

In recent days, much has been written about how many fee increases, or tax increases, are buried within the budgets adopted by the Senate and House of Delegates. So, I thought I would use this week’s column to try and shed some light on that question.

Go to the website and read his ideas.

Crossover week in the General Assembly

This week, the General Assembly reached its symbolic midway point of Crossover. From now on, the Senate can only consider bills which passed the House of Delegates and the House of Delegates can only vote on bills already passed by the Senate.

Republicans in both the Senate and House of Delegates are doing an outstanding job this year getting bills through their respective chambers which protect individual rights and aim to keep government control and growth at a minimum. From health care to jobs and the economy to veterans affairs to transportation, our Republican representatives have made advances in many vital areas.

For a list of Republican-led bills passed in the Senate, click here.
For a list of Republican-led bills passed in the House, click here.

Virginia senate Democrats kill "Royalties for Roads" legislation

Statement of RPV Chairman Pat Mullins on Senate Democrats decision to
kill "Royalties for Roads" legislation....

RPV Chairman Pat Mullins issued the following statement following Wednesday's vote on Senate Bill 601, patroned by Sen. Frank Wagner, R-Virginia Beach:

"For the life of me, I can't understand why Democrats in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads would vote against sending additional money to transportation.” Mullins said.

"In its original form, SB 601 was something that should have made everyone happy — more money for roads that doesn't come out of taxpayers' pockets," he said. "Yet for some reason, the entire Democrat Northern Virginia delegation voted on Monday to send that money to the General Fund. It simply defies logic."

"Then, when Democrats had the chance to re-think their vote on Wednesday, they went the opposite direction and moved to kill the bill outright on a party-line vote," Mullins said. "Senator Dick Saslaw went to great lengths to talk about how the money that would be parceled out is nothing but 'false hope.' "

"But it's important to remember that 'false hope' is what they called offshore drilling just a few years ago. Now, the only thing between the Commonwealth of Virginia and that 'false hope' is foot-dragging at the Obama administration's Interior Department. If anyone is perpetuating false hope it is the Obama administration – not Republicans in Virginia," he said.

"At the end of the day, the Democrats talk a good game about transportation, but when the rubber meets the road, they're not interested," Mullins said. "The only money they want to spend on roads is money that they raise through higher taxes on hard working Virginians."

Republican Party of Virginia

Sen. Mark Obenshain ... "The budget, voter ID, clotheslines ..."

Gone With the Wind: The Budget, Voter ID, and Yes, Clotheslines, in the Senate of Virginia

By Mark Obenshain (R-Harrisonburg)
Virginia State Senate

Another week of session is behind us, and although actual budget negotiations still lie ahead, producing a balanced budget remains the matter on everyone's mind.

The budget will be balanced, of course; the law requires it. The real question is how we'll go about it, and that's where the members of the General Assembly go their separate ways. One of my colleagues across the aisle, Senator Edd Houck, made it clear where the other side stands, calling for tax increases and speaking of the importance of preserving government jobs. Houck's most likely target is the car tax - cutting the $950 million reimbursement to local governments, which will result in re-imposition of the full car tax and an additional bill, likely to average between $450 and $600, for virtually every household in Virginia.

No one wants layoffs, and certainly, one hopes that any necessary staff reductions will come through eliminating vacant posts, but my colleague's comments underscore a fundamental difference of opinion on the government's role and function. Governments employ people, and many of those employees are fine civil servants, but governments do not exist for the purpose of employing people; they exist to provide essential services. If we can deliver those services more efficiently, we must do so.

Governor McDonnell has made it clear that he will not sign any budget that includes tax hikes. I firmly believe that we can meet our budget challenges without raising taxes, but to do that, we all need to be on the same page -- and soon. The House of Delegates recently voted 97-0 to reject Tim Kaine's income tax surcharge proposal, and I strongly believe that the Senate should follow suit, allowing us to all work from the knowledge that tax hikes are not on the table.

Yesterday, fourteen other members of the General Assembly and I unveiled the legislative priorities of the Conservative Caucus, a group I co-chair with Delegate Ben Cline which exists to provide a forum for conservative members of both chambers to discuss and work with each other to advance a commonsense conservative agenda. You can read the full agenda, which includes several of my bills, here.

Another one of my bills died on a party line vote in committee this week. The bill, which would have required voters to provide some form of identification, is a simple, commonsense approach that has met with bipartisan support in other states. People disagree on the extent and impact of voter fraud, but we should all agree on simple, unobtrusive measures to combat it.

I understand the fears that new requirements will create additional burdens for eligible voters, but my bill takes pains to avoid this, permitting utility bills, government checks, pay stubs, and other forms of identification to be used in lieu of photo ID. Similarly, those who cannot produce any form of identification when they come to vote would be given the opportunity to cast a provisional ballot, which will be counted if they can later demonstrate their eligibility. It s a fair solution, I think, and it s one that courts have routinely upheld and that the bipartisan Carter-Baker Commission, headed by former president Jimmy Carter and former secretary of state James Baker, have strongly endorsed.

It's also an idea that went down to defeat the other day, as SB 134 was passed by indefinitely on a 6-5 party line vote in committee. Given the evidence that a problem exists -- a Johns Hopkins University Study identified 1,500 deceased Marylanders who had "voted" in recent elections, one county in New Mexico found 75 registrants at a single address, and right here in Virginia, campaign headquarters, vacant lots, and non-existent addresses have all been listed on many registration forms -- it's disappointing to see such a bill rejected.

Elsewhere, you may have read about the pending transfer of convicted murderer Jens Soering to Germany, a request approved by Tim Kaine during his final days in office. If you're not familiar with the case, Soering was convicted of the brutal murder of his girlfriend's parents in 1985 and is currently serving two life sentences, with his girlfriend sentenced to ninety years as an accessory.

In one of his final acts as governor, Kaine filed the requisite paperwork to transfer Soering to Germany -- without consulting with or even notifying the victims' families before the decision had been made -- where he is expected to be released after two years (and in no event held more than ten). The other day, I signed an open letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder penned by my colleague, Senator Steve Newman, urging him to deny the transfer.

Also, have you heard about the latest in green technology, the alternative energy clothes dryer that harnesses solar and wind power? Some of us grew up calling it a clothes line, but here in the General Assembly it's a "natural drying device," and it's creating quite a stir.

No surprise, really. The newspapers get to trot out every possible groan-inducing pun, with one article in the Richmond Times-Dispatch alone saying the legislation "stretch[ed] out the Senate" and speculating that it would "get blown away" in the House, where "the prevailing winds were against it," despite the fact that it "breezed through the Senate."

So let's shine some sunlight on this thing, shall we? (Yes, I'm doing it, too.) Clotheslines have been around forever, and they're a fine and cost-effective way to accomplish a routine household chore. At issue, though, was whether they should be permitted in communities with restrictive covenants despite ordinances to the contrary -- whether, in other words, someone who bought property with the understanding that certain restrictions were in place should have no say in a change in the terms of his agreement with the homeowners' association because of a mandate handed down from Richmond.

I say no. There are few legitimate reasons for government to override private contracts or interfere with contractual property rights, and this is certainly not one of them. And it's just one of the odd trifles that keep cropping up this session, even as we prepare to take on a far more pressing challenges.

Finally, this week afforded me an opportunity to meet with some friends and neighbors from the district, which is always one of the highlights of my weeks here in Richmond. Members of my local Chambers of Commerce, credit union employees, members of police and sheriffs offices across the district, and representatives of various local businesses, including from the hospitality and tourism industry, all stopped by, along with many other constituents. As always, I enjoy hearing from my constituents, so if you're in Richmond, feel free to stop by, and even if you can't do that, you can always pick up the phone and call my office at (804) 698-7526 or email me at mark@markobenshain.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

Virginia Citizens Defense League supports 2nd amendment legislation

BILLS THAT Virginia Citizens Defense League STRONGLY SUPPORTS -- 2010 Virginia General Assembly Session

HB 489, Delegate Lingamfelter, totally rewrites the concealed carry code (18.2-308) to make it easier to navigate. This bill does not change current law, just reorganizes it.

HB 490, Delegate Lingamfelter, requires the Virginia State Police to develop a plan so that concealed handgun permits can be issued for a lifetime.

HB 505, Delegate Gilbert, repeals the ban on concealed handgun permit holders carrying a concealed handgun in a restaurant. It has a caveat that the permit holder does not consume alcohol in the restaurant while carrying concealed. VCDL prefers Delegate Cole's bill HB 106,
which simply repeals the ban in its entirety.

HB 870, Delegate Cline, removes the option for localities to fingerprint first-time concealed handgun permit applicants. 75% of localities don’t fingerprint currently and this "requirement" has been unproductive and unnecessary since the advent of instant computer checks. This bill will save localities over $30 per applicant in unnecessary FBI fingerprinting fees.

HB 885, Delegate Athey, allows anyone who may lawfully possess a firearm, to carry a handgun secured in a container or compartment in a vehicle or vessel.

SB 334, Senator Hanger, repeals the ban on concealed handgun permit holders carrying a concealed handgun in a restaurant. It has a caveat that the permit holder does not consume alcohol in the restaurant while carrying concealed. VCDL prefers Delegate Cole's bill HB 106, which simply repeals the ban in its entirety.

HB 1191, Delegate Griffith, allows a court to authorize a Clerk to issue concealed handgun permits without judicial review as long as the person is not disqualified from receiving such a permit based on a background check and consulting with either the local sheriff or police department. It also allows a Circuit Court Clerk to sign a concealed handgun permit without the judge’s approval in such a case.

HB 1070, Delegate Athey, allows a person who has a concealed handgun permit to be allowed to carry a concealed handgun in any government facility being used as an emergency shelter. Events in Louisiana following hurricane Katrina and other such events have shown that people need to be able to protect themselves even in (and sometimes especially in) emergency shelters. This bill was put in for VCDL.

BILLS VCDL SUPPORTS
HB 854, Delegate Morefield, Castle Doctrine bill that protects a citizen who has to use force, including deadly force, either inside his residence or anywhere else he can legally be, from a civil
lawsuit. Because of the bill’s wording requiring “proportionate force,” which puts too much “Monday morning quarterbacking” into the equation, this bill is supported, but not strongly supported.

HB 886, Delegate Athey, “Virginia Firearms Freedom Act,” states that firearms that are made in Virginia and sold in Virginia are not subject to Federal regulation as per the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

H/T to Mike

Creigh Deeds gets back to work

It's time for the General Assembly to head back to Richmond and that includes state Senator Creigh Deeds after his unsuccessful 2009 bid for governor. The Richmond Times-Dispatch caught up with Sen. Deeds before the hustle and bustle of the 2010 Session:

State Sen. R. Creigh Deeds is asked if he's excited about returning to Richmond this year after his gubernatorial defeat in November to Republican Bob McDonnell.

"You've seen that commercial on TV where the guy's got two little girls sitting at a table and he says, 'Would you like a pony?'" Deeds starts.

"And he gives the one little girl the toy pony, and he says to the other little girl, 'Would you like a pony?' And then he calls out a real pony," he continues.

"I feel like the little girl with the toy pony."

That's revealing. And then there's this:

"I'm surviving, doing the best I can," he said. "I mean, what choice do I have, right? You got to keep going. You just have to keep moving."

There's more here.

Saxman joins Amundson in saying goodbye ... with a touch of humor

Our own Del. Chris Saxman (R-Staunton) and Northern Virginia's Del. Kris Amundson (D-Fairfax) co-wrote a piece in Sunday's Washington Post looking back over their years in the House of Delegates.

Funny, serious, informative, and with a tinge of sadness, it tells the ups and downs of working in the pressure cooker known as the Virginia General Assembly.

They began by noting:

Saturday morning cartoons used to have a short Schoolhouse Rock video called, "How a Bill Becomes a Law." We learned that the video is not even close to reality.

And it goes on from there ... a good read that looks through the eyes of two delegates who obviously loved what they did but who decided, each on their own at separate times, that it was time to change course. We wish them both well in their future endeavors.

Del. Chris Saxman gears up for campaign

The 2009 campaign season is here and Del. Chris Saxman (R-Staunton) is ready to go with issues, a vision for the future, and enthusiasm for the campaign trail.

Today he issued a statement regarding the campaign issues for this election:

"Earlier today, my opponent announced his intentions to run for the 20th District House of Delegates seat, and I welcome the opportunity to continue the dialogue I have had with the voters of this district for the past eight years. My service to the citizens of the 20th District has always been about working together to keep Virginia and our Valley a great place to live, work and raise a family, and I am looking forward to sharing our shared accomplishments as well as continuing to work with the people of our district to shape a vision for the future.

"Working together, we have achieved many great things for our district, and together we will continue the progress we have started. Unfortunately, my opponent seems unaware of many of the things we have accomplished -- making Virginia the number one state for business, creating jobs here locally and throughout the Commonwealth, increasing funding for education and ensuring that Virginia students have access to high quality educational opportunities.

"As a former teacher, a father of four children, and an employer, I know that education is critical for our future and for our continued economic growth. In order to ensure every child has every opportunity for success, I believe it is important that we don't pit public against private schools, home schools against parochial education. Instead, we need to give parents choices, and make sure that all of our schools have the tools to succeed. I believe that we must reward good teachers, and I have introduced budget language to increase teacher pay. Valley Republicans, especially Senator Emmett Hanger and Delegate Steve Landes, have been national leaders in pulling states out of No Child Left Behind, and I believe that we can further improve education by reinvesting those funds in increasing teacher pay instead of duplicating acccountability that Virginia already has.

"We have increased funding for education in Virginia -- in fact, this year's budget provided $14.3 billion in direct aid to public education at local school divisions. In challenging economic times, we allowed school divisions greater flexibility in determining how best to use funds on educational expenses by granting waivers for textbook local match requirements. We worked to keep college affordable for Virginia students by directing $126.7 million in funding to lessen tuition increases on in-state students, and $10 million for a system-wide 8.5% increase in student financial aid.

"We have worked hard to protect and preserve our quality of life in the Valley, which has also meant creating a business friendly environment to create new jobs here in our area and throughout the state. Because of our efforts, we have seen companies look to the Valley to move and expand -- such as SRI's Center for Advanced Drug Research, which is projected to bring 100 high-tech jobs with average annual salaries of approximately $85,000 to our area.

"Just this year, after meeting in my office and listening to the concerns of representatives of our local arts and tourism communities -- including my now-opponent -- we worked together to develop legislation that I introduced this past January to help grow and expand arts and cultural opportunities in Staunton and around the Commonwealth. I worked with these organizations and my colleagues in the legislature to ensure we passed legislation that would help grow these arts and cultural opportunities and create jobs here in our area. Additionally this year, we funded $2.5 million for strategic expansion of tourism promotion across the Commonwealth -- which is projected to leverage more than $12 million in private sector expenditures.

"In addition to protecting jobs that would have been lost by the Governor's proposal to close the Commonwealth Center for Children and Adolescents, and bringing additional jobs to the area through the consolidation of VSDB to Staunton, we have protected our family farms and small businesses by working to abolish the death tax. We have helped our local wineries by creating a mechanism for them to distribute their products after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled they could no longer self-distribute, helping Virginia's small wineries to grow and create more jobs.

"Transportation is a critical issue for our Commonwealth and our District, which is why we worked to stop a detrimental widening plan recommended by Governor Mark Warner that would have placed burdensome tolls on I-81. Virginia has increased its investment into transportation, as well as implemented innovative new programs to help ensure Virginia taxpayers are getting the best value for their investment. Programs such as "Rural Rustic Roads," which we enacted in 2002, are helping to treat rural roads at a lower cost, while also preserving Virginia's rural landscapes. The Public-Private Transportation Act (PPTA) is allowing for greater partnership between the Commonwealth and private investors to help our limited transportation funds go even further.

"Protecting our environment has been another issue we have worked on together. One of the key issues I worked on in 2006 was the successful passage of legislation -- HB1055 -- to bring cleaner air to Virginia through significant mercury emission reduction standards. I led a successful compromise for Virginia’s implementation of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR) and Clean Air Mercury Rule (CAMR). The result of this legislation is cleaner air in the Shenandoah Valley and across the state three years ahead of the previous schedule. This language also codifies the Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) regulation for CAIR, which limits sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, which address the concern of smog in Virginia by limiting the emissions of these greenhouse gasses. The latest report from the Department of Environment Quality showed an encouraging trend of decreases in toxins being released into Virginia's waters and air.

"My opponent also criticized my support for exploring the possibility of off-shore drilling for clean natural gas off the coast of Virginia. While I do believe that it is important that we all do our part to reduce energy usage, I also believe that it is of critical importance that America produces, at home, the energy resources we need to keep this country moving forward instead of remaining dependent upon foreign nations for energy. I have worked to try and ensure any future funds that may be paid to the Commonwealth for off-shore royalties could be reinvested in projects including transportation and the Chesapeake Bay.

"I also find it concerning that of the issues my opponent has chosen to highlight in his campaign, he has failed to mention public safety, which is a critical issue here in the Valley and across the Commonwealth. Over the past few years, Virginia has experienced a growing problem with gangs- a problem that has unfortunately extended to our part of the Valley, which is why we have passed new laws to give judges and prosecutors more tools to deal with gang members who commit crimes. With the continued growth of the internet, Virginians are also facing growing threats from those who would commit crimes online- from identity theft to child predators. We have worked hard to keep our communities safe -- increasing penalties for those who prey on our children through the production, possession or dissemination of child pornography. We have worked with Virginia's Attorneys General to pass tougher laws for spammers and those who commit other crimes online.

"As I have served the people of the 20th District, I have experienced first-hand the importance of working together in a bipartisan manner for the good of our district and our Commonwealth. The strong relationships I have made with colleagues from both sides of the aisle have helped me as I work to represent our district in the General Assembly."

"Chris Saxman and I have developed a great relationship over the years. He truly believes that there are some things that government can do better, and we've built a great relationship in working together in a way that doesn't create a partisan divide. His desire to help is very genuine, and it comes through in all the meetings that we have, and I've really enjoyed working with him from that perspective." -Bill Leighty, Former Chief of Staff to Governors Warner and Kaine, December 11, 2008, Augusta Free Press

"Great, articulate guy. Has wonderful, innovative ideas that force people to really examine where they are and hopefully we'll be able to work together to implement some of these innovations." -Delegate David Toscano (D-Charlottesville), 7-14-08, WMRA radio

"I look forward to continuing to discuss our many accomplishments, with the voters of the 20th district in the coming months, as well as hearing their thoughts and ideas for how we can continue to work together for the good of our community and our Commonwealth. I have always valued the feedback, the suggestions and ideas of the citizens of our district, and together I know we will continue to make Virginia a great place to live, work and raise a family."

Virginia Conservative Caucus website

With the 2009 Virginia General Assembly set to open next week, a good source of information during Session is the Virginia Conservative Caucus website that is chaired by two gentlemen I admire for their voting records and conservative viewpoints, Del. Ben Cline (R-24th House District) and Sen. Mark Obenshain (R-26 Senate District).

With a membership made up of elected officials from both the House of Delegates and the State Senate, the Conservative Caucus advances conservative values in the General Assembly by providing information so interested citizens can follow and research the votes on conservative issues.

Furthermore:

The Caucus meets periodically throughout the year and weekly during the annual legislative session to develop and promote a legislative agenda that reflects our mission.

The Conservative Caucus reviews legislation presented to the General Assembly and decides whether or not to advocate for or against that certain piece of legislation. Some of the guiding principles in our decision making are:

Less Government - Does this legislation tend to reduce or enlarge the size of government? Does it reduce regulation or unnecessary and wasteful spending and programs?

Lower Taxes - Does this legislation promote individual responsibility in spending earned income? Does this legislation reduce any current taxes or fees? Does this legislation create new, unnecessary taxes and/or fees on Virginia families?

Individual Responsibility & Freedom - Does the legislation promote and encourage responsible, individual action relating to persons and families in the Commonwealth? Does this legislation encourage those families to seek and provide for their own health, personal safety, education, moral fortitude, or welfare? Does this legislation increase or decrease the opportunities for individual persons or families to make decisions on how to conduct their own lives and make personal choices without excessive interference from state government?

Our caucus has worked since its creation to impact legislation considered by the Virginia General Assembly while advocating conservative viewpoints in key policy areas including the state budget, taxes, education, and matters of faith, family, finances, and individual rights.

Contact information for Conservative Caucus members is listed as well as Issue Overview, Legislative Agenda, Caucus contact information, Event Calendar, and Newsroom which contains press releases and other news.

Our thanks to our conservative representatives for their leadership in Richmond during the upcoming session.

Americans For Prosperity: Day at the Capitol

The stately Virginia State Capitol with business skyline in the background.

Shenandoah Valley AFP supporters on bus ride to Richmond. Goodie bags provided by Congressman Bob Goodlatte were particularly welcomed ... bottled water and snacks kept the hunger away.New entrance tunnel to Capitol.
Attorney General Bob McDonnell addresses AFP as Virginia's AFP Director Ben Marchi (right) looks on.
Delegate Jeff Frederick and Delegate Ben Cline. Both addressed AFP attendees.
Lt. Governor Bill Bolling.
House of Delegates ... Delegate Chris Saxman and Delegate Ben Cline.
AFP luncheon at the Omni.

On a beautiful spring-like day in Richmond, Thursday's Americans For Prosperity Day at the Capitol was a great success as proponents of lower taxes and responsible spending spent the day meeting with their legislators, watching the budget process, and listening to elected officials emphasize the importance of leaving more money in the pockets of taxpayers.

The bus ride offered Valley citizens an opportunity to visit with others from nearby localities and to discuss the state budget, various bills that had been passed and vetoed, and generally enjoy the company of like-minded folks.

A friend's home school family with six children conducted school on the ride over with each child, ranging from grades 2-9, working on math and then civics. They were perfect passengers and a joy to be with throughout the day.

After arriving at the Capitol, Delegate Ben Cline, who is the Virginia Western Coordinator for AFP, welcomed everyone and spoke about AFP, followed by Senator Ralph Smith (R-Roanoke), Delegate Brenda Pogge, Delegate Jeff Frederick, Senator Ken Cuccinelli, Lt. Governor Bill Bolling, Attorney General Bob McDonnell, and RPV Chairman John Hager.

Afterwards, with the House in recess, we were allowed to enter the chamber and sit in the delegate chairs. I had the great honor of sitting at my delegate's desk, Chris Saxman, and made sure to leave him a note saying, "Lynn was here and enjoyed your chair!" Ben Cline and Ken Cuccinelli talked with us until Senator Cuccinelli had to head over to the Senate Chamber.

Sitting in the gallery of the Senate offered the opportunity to see them honor and pass a resolution for a Chesapeake-area police officer who was recently killed in the line of duty. There was reverence as his widow approached the dais and was hugged by Senate President Bill Bolling.

Observing the House of Delegates from the gallery was fun as we watched Delegates Chris Saxman and Ben Cline conferring with each other, and as Delegate Saxman took to the floor to press his issues. Afterwards, we spoke with them in the hallway when they went into a brief recess.

Everyone was ready for lunch at the Omni at 1:30 where we were treated to a formal meal of garden salad, chicken cordon bleu, vegetables, and parfait. Attorney General Bob McDonnell addressed the group. A recap of the September "Defending the American Dream" summit in D.C. was shown with remarks from AFP Director Ben Marchi.

Ben recognized Trixie Averill who was a big part of putting together this event, calling her to the podium to say thank you for her hard work. She had those of us who had attended the "Defending the American Dream" summit stand along with her as a testament of what AFP is doing as it continues to grow in Virginia.

After lunch there was time to visit delegate and senate offices, tour the capitol, wander the grounds, or just enjoy the beautiful day. Everyone went in different directions and met back at the bus at 4:30 for the drive home.

Many thanks to all for their time and dedication putting together an enjoyable and interesting day in Richmond.

Thanks also to Congressman Bob Goodlatte for the goodie bags provided for the bus ... the bottled water and snacks were greatly appreciated and only a few granola bars were left over.

More photos to be posted.....

Cross-posted at Americans For Prosperity

Photos by SWAC Girl

Dem Delegate: "Wild Wild West Gun Slinger"

From the GOP Caucus blog:

Delegate McClellan thought that while debating the merits of this bill it would be an acceptable time to INSULT law-abiding concealed weapons permit holders across the state. Not only was I offended to be equated to a "Wild Wild West Gun Slinger" but so was Delegate Todd Gilbert. See video below ...

Read the rest here.