Virginia Senate Republican Caucus

Solutions for Economic Growth and Business Friendly Initiatives

Balancing the State Budget through Focused Spending Cuts

Richmond – Amidst the backdrop of continued economic pressures and Virginia’s budget uncertainties, Senator Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover) welcomed the beginning of the 2010 General Assembly session as an opportunity to enhance the state’s business environment and improve the quality of life for all Virginians. Senator McDougle came to Richmond this month committed to a “no-new-taxes” economic growth agenda which preserves jobs within the Commonwealth’s current industry base and creates many more jobs by building on Virginia’s reputation as an attractive state for business.

“Despite what is certainly a difficult economic situation, I am upbeat and encouraged by the level of commitment to fresh ideas and innovative proposals that have the potential to advance our economy and take us from recovery to prosperity,” said McDougle. “To achieve these important goals, it is best for government to stay out of the way as much as possible and let the private sector get to work. This is what the voters chose in November and I will do my part to satisfy their wishes.”

Senator McDougle has vowed to work closely with his colleagues in the legislature and the new Administration towards an economic revival throughout the state, and he will support common-sense legislation that distinguishes Virginia from other budget-challenged states for its business-friendly standards. As an example, Senator McDougle applauds and is a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 129, The Clean Energy Manufacturing Incentive Grant Fund; introduced by Senator Stosch.  The bill provides significant financial incentives to companies that invest private capital in research and the development of renewable, clean energy projects that also create jobs. “Virginia must be bold in proactively luring economic development that for many years was largely taken for granted,” he added.

In addition to the energy sector, Senator McDougle recognizes that legislators should work to protect and improve the economic climate for all of Virginia’s traditional industries including agribusiness, manufacturing, shipping, tourism and high-tech development, as well as military and veteran support.

Senator McDougle will also be working with colleagues to improve a state budget proposed by former Governor Kaine, which is unbalanced and puts too much of a burden on Virginia’s businesses and citizens. First and foremost, Senator McDougle will fight any proposal for new taxes.  He will ask Virginians to be patient and understand that hard decisions will have to be made and some services reduced or eliminated all together.

“I believe we can balance this budget by doing things smarter and taking advantage of innovations in processes and technologies, while purging the state of wasteful and/or ineffective government practices and programs,” said Senator McDougle. “Many Virginians agree that some services are better left in the private sector than under the umbrella of government bureaucracy.”

Senator McDougle continues to seek improvement to the state’s biennial budget process by adjusting the budget calendar to start in July of odd numbered years. His, Senate Bill 102, would remedy an unnecessary weakness in Virginia’s budgeting process which requires a new Administration to begin its term with a previous governor’s proposals as a starting point for debate, despite the major differences in each governor’s proposals and initiatives.  The new system is a rational approach that will save time and money compared to the current outdated legacy system.

Senate Bill 102 still calls for a two-year budget; however, revisions would be made in even numbered years. The lengths of the General Assembly sessions would be adjusted accordingly. Under this new system, a governor would enter office in the middle of the two-year budget and simply oversee the revisions to an in-place budget. This will eliminate any confusion within the legislature and the electorate. 

“Under my plan, each time a governor proposes a budget, he/she will be in office to champion it in front of the General Assembly,” said Senator McDougle. “Although this measure did not pass last year, I truly believe this year’s transition sufficiently demonstrates the very quandary that was the impetus for Senate Bill 102, giving it a better chance to succeed.”

Senator McDougle looks forward to providing updates throughout this session.  As the state Senator representing Virginia’s 4^th Senate District, he always encourages his constituents to share their ideas, suggestions and comments with him during the General Assembly session and throughout the year.  He can be reached by e-mail at district04@senate.virginia.gov or by phone at 804-698-7504 during the General Assembly session.  For further contact information, visit his website at www.ryanmcdougle.com.

###

Article Content

Fourth Senatorial District — Ryan McDougle was sworn in for his 2nd term in the Senate of Virginia in 2008. In 2006, he was first elected to serve in the Senate in a Special Election where he captured 80% of the vote. He now represents Caroline, Essex, Hanover, King William, King and Queen, Middlesex, and Spotsylvania Counties. McDougle previously served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2002 to 2005. Senator McDougle now sits on the Senate Transportation; Courts of Justice; Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources; and Rehabilitation and Social Services Committees. He also serves as Deputy Republican Whip and as a member of the Supreme Court’s Committee on District Courts. McDougle received his Bachelor of Science degree from James Madison University in Political Science and History. McDougle earned his Juris Doctorate from the College of William and Mary School of Law.

Contact Information:

Mailing:
P.O. Box 187
Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Phone: (804) 730-1026
Fax: (804) 730-1051

Email:
district04@senate.virginia.gov

Website:

Visit His Website

-- Incentives for Private Business, Government Efficiencies Head Agenda --

Richmond – Senator Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover) reiterated this week that the top priority during this session of the Virginia General Assembly is creating jobs for Virginians. As state legislators transitioned from a long period of preparation to the vital early stages of governing, Senator McDougle hailed the progress made in Richmond by state representatives and Governor McDonnell. By voting down any consideration of an income tax increase, the House affirmed the important message that legislators cannot look to the people to fix budget problems created by undisciplined stewardship during past years.

“The proposed income tax increase would have created the exact opposite of what this state needs, which is definitive solutions that lead to tangible economic development,” said the Senator. “The atmosphere in Richmond took another positive step this week when Governor McDonnell introduced critical budget proposals that incentivize businesses, improve the quality of the state’s workforce and reduce government spending.”

Senator McDougle will support legislation that improves the quality of the state’s workforce, fosters growth in the small business arena, expedites the establishment of businesses-in-good-standing in the state (via improved permitting processes) and encourages the expansion of promising business sectors, as exemplified by the states burgeoning science and technology industry. The Senator feels strongly that momentum towards a robust economy can be fostered wherever possible by encouraging private investment in the state through tax relief and the elimination of red tape.

As much of the business in Richmond is focused on job creation and economic stimulus, Senator McDougle and his colleagues continue to work on balancing the state’s budget by streamlining government practices and removing unnecessary and wasteful programs; and, if necessary, even considering the elimination of entire agencies.

For example, the Senator has introduced SB103 which reorganizes the executive management of VDOT. The bill eliminates the office of Commonwealth Transportation Commissioner, replacing that position with a Chief Executive Officer for Transportation. Management responsibilities of the Commonwealth Transportation Commissioner, the Director of the Department of Aviation and the Director of the Department of Rail and Public will all fall under the responsibility of the executive. Consolidating these roles under one individual will eliminate some duplicative efforts and generally provide a clearer perspective for efficiently managing the many transportation needs of the Commonwealth.

This week, as with every week during the General Assembly session, many citizen groups made their way to Senator McDougle’s office.  Input of the people of Virginia, whom the legislators represent, is a fundamental element of the legislative process. Groups who stopped by to share their ideas included doctors, bankers, girls scouts, representatives from the Hanover ARC, Hanover Habitat for Humanity, Germanna Community College students, pharmacists, credit union members, dentists and local commissioners of revenue and treasurers. The legislature continues to review critical issues like the bill Senator Jill Vogel and Senator McDougle, as a co-patron, have proposed to ensure Virginians can exercise their constitutional rights to refuse to purchase a government health care plan.  Senator McDougle continues to seek feedback and encourages his constituents to express their views by e-mail at district04@senate.virginia.gov, by phone at 804-698-7504 or through his website at www.ryanmcdougle.com.  He will host a live Tele-Town hall phone call to many of the citizens in his district next week on February 2, 2010.  This live call offers an opportunity for his constituents to share their views with Senator McDougle and hear an overview of the legislative session and state budget.  

####

The following are articles from newspapers, blogs, and other news sources throughout the Commonwealth and the country featuring members of the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus. 

• Multiple Members
  • Students go on the “Road to Richmond” – William & Mary News - The day began in the cold, wee hours of a January morning outside the Sadler Center.
  • Chamber of Commerce members support business-friendly proposals – WHSV-TV – The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce made its presence known in Richmond Wednesday at the annual Virginia Chamber of Commerce “Chamber Day at the Capitol.”
  • Education secretary discusses charter schools, pre-k – Virginian-Pilot & Ledger-Star – Virginia's new secretary of education, Gerard Robinson, fielded questions from lawmakers Wednesday on pre-kindergarten programs, charter schools, and lengthening the school year, among other topics.
  • Lawmakers look to keep APCo rates in check – Lynchburg News & Advance - State lawmakers are looking into ways to keep Appalachian Power Co. rates in check.
  • Senate clears way for easier absentee voting – WY Daily – It would be easier to vote absentee in Virginia under a bill approved by the Senate.
• Sen. Harry Blevins
  • Seatbelt bill “clicks” with Senate – Gainesville Times – The Senate has passed a bill making failure to wear a seat belt a primary offense in Virginia.
• Sen. Emmett Hanger
  • Senate tax bill targets short-term rentals – Harrisonburg Daily News Record – A bill designed to allow counties to levy a transient occupancy tax on single-family homeowners who rent their homes or rooms for short periods of time passed the Senate on Thursday. Sen. Emmett Hanger, R-Mount Solon, introduced the bill, which now goes to the House of Delegates.
• Sen. Robert Hurt
  • Hurt co-sponsors legislation to prevent U.S. government from interfering in state issues – Franklin News-Post - State Sen. Robert Hurt has co-sponsored two bills in the General Assembly that incorporate Tenth Amendment issues and are supported by Tea Party activists in Virginia.
  • Senator Robert Hurt’s weekly update – Martinsville Chronicle - The first full week of the 2010 General Assembly here in Richmond has now concluded.  The week began with the Governor McDonnell’s first State of the Commonwealth address and the ended with committees getting fully underway in reviewing and taking action on individual legislation.  In addition, because of the recent special elections of two new senators, Senate committee assignments were completed. 
• Sen. Ryan McDougle
  • Buckle up for new zero tolerance, zero discretion – Newport News Daily Press – Barry Fletcher had just purchased a '93 Chevy van and was on his way to get it inspected when he hit a routine traffic stop in Saluda in Middlesex County, just up the road from the courthouse.
• Sen. Steve Newman
  • Newman’s speed limit bill again ok’d by committee – Lynchburg News & Advance - Even a second trip through a Senate committee wasn’t enough to slow down a 70 mph speed-limit bill sponsored by Sen. Steve Newman, R-Lynchburg.
  • Measure would oppose Soering transfer to Germany – Roanoke Times – The Virginia Senate could soon join Gov. Bob McDonnell in formally opposing the transfer of convicted double-murderer Jens Soering to a prison in his native Germany.
• Sen. Tommy Norment
  • Students try luck at lobbying – The Flat Hat – While most of the campus slumbered early Tuesday morning, a group of College of William and Mary students braved the cold and headed to Richmond to lobby Virginian politicians.
• Sen. Mark Obenshain
  • VA Conservative Caucus details agenda – Richmond Times-Dispatch – They call themselves the Virginia Conservative Caucus -- they're essentially Republicans in Republican clothing.
  • Conservative Caucus announces 2010 agenda – Rockbridge Weekly & Alleghany Journal – The Virginia Conservative Caucus, a group comprised of conservative legislators from the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates, held a press conference this afternoon to announce their legislative agenda for the 2010 General Assembly session.  The Conservative Caucus, co-chaired by Delegate Ben Cline and Senator Mark Obenshain, approved an agenda Tuesday morning that outlines their position on priority legislation introduced this session.
  • Faith and Freedom: “In God We Trust” License Plates – Family Foundation Blog – Last year, pro-life Virginians won a tremendous victory when the General Assembly passed legislation creating “Choose Life” license plates. This year, there is opportunity to create  an “In God We Trust” license plate.
  • Budget rhetoric intensifies – Norfolk Virginian-Pilot – On the subject of Virginia's recession-racked budget, any bipartisan pretense has officially vanished.  Sen. Edward Houck, D-Spotsylvania, was the latest legislator to jump into the fray Thursday with a blistering speech on the Senate floor targeting Gov. Bob McDonnell's approach to reducing state spending.
• Sen. Fred Quayle
  • Hampton Roads lawmakers oppose tolls on 2 bridge-tunnels – Norfolk Virginian-Pilot – Most Hampton Roads lawmakers didn't take too kindly to the proposal from a Northern Virginia colleague to put tolls on two Hampton Roads bridge-tunnels.
  • Richmond’s detour over health care – Norfolk Virginian-Pilot - Congress is clearly capable of mucking up efforts to reform the country's health care system without assistance from state legislators in Virginia.
  • Put all options on the menu – Roanoke Times – Under a bill that passed the Virginia Senate this week, counties would be permitted to levy a meals tax in an amount local leaders think appropriate.
• Sen. Frank Ruff
  • Farmers ask legislators to support property rights, oppose estate tax – Mechanicsville Local – More than 100 Virginia Farm Bureau Federation leaders asked their representatives to oppose reinstating Virginia’s estate tax, to oppose any legislation that would limit property rights and to support animal care that is science-based and allows production agriculture to remain in business.
• Sen. Ralph Smith
  • Smith calls for 72-hour budget review – Bearing Drift Blog – State Senator Ralph Smith (R-Botetourt) has introduced legislation (SB5) that would require the budget to be posted online for 72 hours before a vote could be taken.
• Sen. Jill Vogel
  • Republicans defend health care freedom bill – NBC 29 News - The state Senate could vote as early as Friday to make federally-mandated health insurance illegal. 
  • Bills on guns, seat belts, schools – Norfolk Virginian-Pilot – A bill that would allow school divisions to start classes before the Labor Day holiday squeaked through a Senate committee Thursday on an 8-7 vote.
  • The Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing . . . – Loudoun Times-Mirror – OK, let’s get a couple of things straight about Frank Wolf. The GOP Congressman from the 10th Congressional District is a veritable legend. In a time where politics is viewed as a fulcrum for inaction and sclerosis - Wolf delivers, and does so with magnanimity, dignity and respect. Perhaps, the best Virginia Congressman in our lifetime.
• Sen. John Watkins
  • Report: Big job growth needed to reverse recession – Norfolk Virginian-Pilot – Virginia must add nearly 12,800 jobs per month for the next two years to return to pre-recession employment levels, a Richmond think tank projected in a report released Thursday.

 Senator McDougle Applauds Approval of Healthcare Freedom Bill in the Senate and Reviews His Legislation Focusing on Budget Process and VITA Reforms

Richmond – The national healthcare debate came to Richmond earlier this week and a key Senate vote on the important issue resulted in victories for the basic freedoms that Virginians currently enjoy. Senator Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover) is a co-patron of Senate Bill 417, often termed a Healthcare Freedom bill. He joined 17 Republican colleagues, as well as 5 Senate Democrats to pass the legislation designed to protect citizens from any federally imposed healthcare mandates.  This Healthcare Freedom legislation would ensure that residents of the Commonwealth shall not be required to obtain or maintain a policy of individual insurance coverage if ever mandated by the federal government.

“I was proud to sponsor and cast my vote for the fundamental rights of Virginians,” said Senator McDougle. “The people from my district have made it clear that they don’t appreciate the closed-door healthcare debate process taking place in Washington. Certainly our healthcare system needs reform, but it remains the best in the world and is not something to be hastily changed for the sake of political expediency.” Senator McDougle noted that more than 30 states across the country are considering similar bills that preserve the rights of their citizens with regards to healthcare coverage.

As Senator McDougle and his colleagues attempt to remedy the state’s $4.5 billion budget shortfall, he is advocating another legislative initiative to fundamentally adjust the biennial budget fiscal calendar. Under the language set forth in Senate Bill 102, new budgets would begin in July of odd number years, rather than the current standard beginning in even years. The effect is a Virginia governor would be in office to see the impact of his or her proposed budget. This week Senate Bill 102 passed successfully through the Senate Finance Committee by a vote of 10-5.  This legislation is a bi-partisan move forward for Virginia and will help to ensure our best managed state status for the future. Senator McDougle’s legislation will now be voted on the Senate floor.  

“We are working hard to correct an awkward budgetary cycle that requires incoming gubernatorial administrations to contend with fiscal suggestions made by a previous governor, often from another party,” according to Senator McDougle.

Senator McDougle also has been working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to craft needed legislation to reform the Virginia Information Technologies Agency (VITA). VITA’s management of the privately-awarded $2.36 billion dollar state Information Technology overhaul has been a constant cause for concern due to expensive delays and payments made to the contractor. Based on the recommendations of a two year study of the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC), Senator McDougle has introduced SB390, which will eliminate the ineffective Information Technology Investment Board and give the Governor authority to appoint the state’s Chief Information Officer, with the requirement that the General Assembly confirm the appointment.  Among many changes to the technology agency within this legislation, the Secretary of Technology and a newly appointed CIO will have more oversight and review of major technology projects proposed within the agency.  The bill will improve the decision-making process for funding new IT projects by providing policymakers with better information on the need for these IT projects and it will also prevent loss and waste of funds from failed projects by retaining and updating statutory review of IT projects. 

“I agree with the JLARC assessment that the oversight methodology under the Information Technology Investment Board and statutory authority within the agency is not working. The citizens whom I represent have told me that they want the state to be responsible with their tax dollars and this legislation will bring needed accountability and oversight of VITA.  Under the Secretary of Technology and a new Chief Information Officer both appointed by the Governor, sensible, pragmatic decisions can be made promptly and the custodians of Virginia’s largest outsourced contract will be held sufficiently accountable,” said McDougle. 

Senator McDougle continues to seek feedback from his constituents during the legislative session.  This week he hosted a live Tele-Town Hall phone call and talked with over 1500 citizens in his district.  Senator McDougle encourages his constituents to continue expressing their views by e-mail at district04@senate.virginia.gov, by phone at 804-698-7504 or through his website at www.ryanmcdougle.com.  

The following are articles from newspapers, blogs, and other news sources throughout the Commonwealth and the country featuring members of the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus. 

• Senators Ryan McDougle and Walter Stosch
  • Va. technology chief leads VITA talks with Northrop Grumman – The Richmond Times Dispatch - Virginia's new secretary of technology is taking command of negotiations with Northrop Grumman in the latest attempt to salvage relations with the company hired to run the state's computer network.
• Senator Robert Hurt
  • APCo may suspend rate increase – The Franklin News Post - Appalachian Power Co. (APCo) would suspend an interim rate increase that it began charging in December if the General Assembly and Gov. Bob McDonnell approve emergency legislation that sets a timetable for the State Corporation Commission (SCC) to rule on APCo's request for a rate increase.
• Senator Ryan McDougle
  • McDougle applauds approval of Healthcare Freedom bill in Senate – The Mechanicsville Local - The national healthcare debate came to Richmond earlier this week and a key Senate vote on the important issue resulted in victories for the basic freedoms that Virginians currently enjoy.
• Senator Richard Stuart
  • Many veterans salute Stuart's flag bills (Editorial) – Fredericksburg.com - State Sen. Richard Stuart, I believe, was trying to resolve a specific problem that seems to be cropping up, generated by homeowners associations' rules and regulations ["Bill may help flag fliers," Jan. 15].
• Senator William Wampler, Jr.
  • Virginia House approves BVU authority bill – Bristol Herald Courier - Legislation to establish an independent Bristol Virginia Utilities authority continued hurtling through the General Assembly on Thursday, but questions remain about its possible implementation.

The following are articles from newspapers, blogs, and other news sources throughout the Commonwealth and the country featuring members of the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus. 

• Senators Mark Obenshain and Ralph Smith
  • Family Foundation, GOP lawmakers cry foul over abortion bill – HamptonRoads.com - Legislation that would make it a criminal offense to force an individual to have an abortion sparked a rules fight in the Senate Courts of Justice Committee Wednesday. An interpretation of Senate procedures on which committees have dominion over abortion-related measures was at the center of a dispute over the bill being carried by Sen. Ralph Smith, R-Roanoke.
• Senator Harry Blevins
  • Will the House Finally OK a Seat-Belt Bill? – The News & Advance - In an impassioned plea before the Senate Transportation Committee recently, state Sen. Harry Blevins, R-Chesapeake, said he has attended too many funerals, visited too many hospital rooms and comforted too many grieving parents of young men and women killed because they weren’t wearing seat belts.  
• Senator Robert Hurt
  • McDonnell reopens 19 rest stops – Star-Tribune - When you gotta go, you gotta go. And now, thanks to Gov. Robert McDonnell's decision last week to reopen 19 interstate highway rest stops, Virginia's travelers won't have to hold it. 
• Senator Ryan McDougle
  • Legislative Update II 2/03/10 – Virginia Bicycling Federation - Those that are interested, and have bookmarked the Legislature’s website http://leg1.state.va.us or the Richmond Sunlight website www.richmondsunlight.com should check out SB103, which is carried by Sen. Ryan McDougle, and is calling for some dramatic and sweeping changes to the State’s Transportation Dept
• Senator Steve Newman
  • Go Bob, Go – LifeofMatthew.com - Governor Bob McDonnell’s proposal to raise the speed limit in Virginia passed the House of Delegates and the State Senate Tuesday. What else is there to say but, Go Bob, Go! 
• Senator Mark Obenshain
  • Death penalty expansion passes House – NVDaily.com - As it has for the past three years, the House of Delegates has approved a bill sponsored by Del. Todd Gilbert, R-Woodstock, that would expand the application of the death penalty. On Wednesday, the House voted 74-24 for the bill that would close the so-called "triggerman" loophole, according to a news release from Gilbert. 
• Senator Ralph Smith
  • Senator Smith Introduces Budget Reform – The Roanoke Star-Sentinel - The General Assembly passed Virginia’s last two year budget just 34 minutes after it was distributed to legislators. Senator Ralph K. Smith (R-Botetourt) has announced that he is introducing legislation that would require the budget be posted online for 72 hours before a vote could be taken. 
• Senator Richard Stuart
  • Senate panel unanimously passes bill on flying flag – Fredericksburg.com - With no opposition, a Virginia Senate committee yesterday approved Sen. Richard Stuart's bill to allow homeowners to fly the U.S. flag. The bill was prompted by a case in Henrico County last year, in which a homeowners association barred a 90-year-old Medal of Honor recipient from flying the flag on an upright flagpole in his yard.

Today, Senate Democrats exercised a partisan power play by using procedural tactics to defeat two bills sponsored by Republican legislators on party-line votes.  The Senate voted to re-refer Senate Bills 601 and 102 to the Committee on Finance with a recommendation that they be carried over for the year.  Senate Bill 601, patroned by Sen. Frank Wagner (R-Virginia Beach), dealt with the allocation of future offshore drilling royalties.  Senate Bill 102, patroned by Sen. Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover), would reverse the years in which the state budget is approved to bring the budgeting process more in line with the term of Virginia’s governors. 

“Today’s actions clearly demonstrate the lack of vision the Senate Democrats have for Virginia,” commented Wagner.  “Bills that were reported from the Finance Committee with bipartisan majorities just last week are being killed in purely partisan fashion without the courtesy of true up or down votes.  Such flip-flopping is no way to govern the Commonwealth.”

Wagner’s bill, which was included in Governor Bob McDonnell’s legislative package, would allocate funds received from future off-shore drilling royalties.  As introduced, the bill would allocate 80% of such royalties to the Transportation Trust Fund.  On Monday, the Senate adopted an amendment that would instead allocate 70% of such royalties to the General Fund and the remaining 30% between localities and the Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium.  The vote to adopt the amendment was largely along party lines.

“On Monday, the Democrats voted to change the original purpose of my bill,” Wagner noted.  “While I did not support their amendment, I decided the underlying purpose of the bill was important enough to go forward.  How they could go from turning the bill into something they preferred to outright defeating their own concept is beyond me.

“While the royalties allocated by this legislation are not yet a reality, we need to be prepared when we start receiving them,” Wagner noted.  “Thanks to the recent actions of Senators Warner and Webb, these royalties are closer than ever to being realized.  This legislation served two important purposes – encouraging greater energy independence in America and allocating revenue that would truly help Virginia to build and maintain its infrastructure.  To derail such important legislation for purely partisan ends is not responsible governance.”

Immediately after the Senate’s action on Senate Bill 601, the Senate considered McDougle’s Senate Bill 102.  McDougle’s legislation would alter the timing of Virginia’s budgeting process so that a biennial budget would be adopted in odd-numbered years and revised in even-numbered years.  The lengths of General Assembly sessions would be altered accordingly.  This legislation was introduced by McDougle during the 2009 session also.  It has been considered by the General Assembly as far back as 2005 – when the concept passed unanimously in the Senate.  While the Governor has expressed support for the measure, it was not on his legislative agenda.  The vote to re-refer the bill to Committee was also on a party-line vote with Sen. Chuck Colgan (D – Prince William) crossing the aisle to vote with Republicans against the motion.

“This year is the perfect year to pass this legislation,” McDougle commented.  “The current struggle over the budget has only been exacerbated by the fact that the introduced budget we have before us was written by a Governor who is no longer in office and is based on priorities vastly different from those of our current Governor.  For weeks, we have heard the Senate Democrats call for leadership on the budget.  Yet when given an opportunity to show leadership themselves, the members of the majority party balked.

“This legislation was not partisan, was focused on good governance, and was a recommendation of the Wilder Commission,” noted McDougle.  “There is no reason why a Governor should propose a budget during their last month in office when they will not be present to guide the bill through the General Assembly or to govern within the constraints of the budget they proposed.  That is why I introduced this legislation last year.  And that is why the Senate passed it unanimously in 2005.  I cannot imagine what has changed so drastically in five years that the bill has gone from being unanimously supported to being killed through procedural nuances.”

Richmond – Despite unfortunate setbacks this week related to Senate Republican efforts to improve the Commonwealth’s financial management process (see Wednesday, Feb. 10 press release), there are positive developments taking place in Richmond focused on the critical goal of creating jobs. Senator Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover), co-patron of SB 472, applauds the passage of this major component of the Governor’s Jobs and Opportunities agenda.

The Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit (SB 472) targets much more than big business. The bill encourages private investment in Virginia’s workforce by extending considerable tax relief to companies of all sizes that create at least 50 jobs.

“The citizens within my district echo the sentiments of Virginians everywhere. They want job growth now. `A few years down the road’ is not good enough as we work to emerge from this recession,” said Senator McDougle. “As a co-patron of this bill, I join Governor McDonnell and Senator Watkins in promoting tangible solutions that empower the private sector to establish or expand businesses within the Commonwealth, soon. Under this measure, the extent to which a company benefits grows relative to the number of jobs generated, therefore assisting small and medium sized businesses, as well as large corporations,” he said.

This jobs growth bill is broad in scope not only because of the types of businesses it will help, but also because of who it will benefit. Tax incentives will help those establishing new businesses in economically distressed areas or those designated as enterprise zones. Private enterprises in these areas will benefit with the creation of 25 jobs, as opposed to the 50 employee standard elsewhere.

Energy Independence, Transportation Funding Denied by Partisan Politics 

This week Senate Democrats continued to obstruct efforts to bolster the state’s financial security well into the future. In addition to Wednesday’s narrow defeat of Senator McDougle’s bill that would have improved the state’s antiquated budget cycle, an important measure enabling the State of Virginia to take advantage of offshore drilling royalties was also voted down. SB 601, which Senator McDougle co-patroned, ensured that the state’s many transportation demands would benefit from oil exploration off of Virginia’s coastline.

“This bill would have reaffirmed that the Commonwealth is ready and willing to lead the nation in energy independence and provided much-needed support for the state’s transportation needs,” said Senator McDougle. “The issue has enjoyed bi-partisan support with our Governor and both of the state’s U.S. Senators eager for Washington to award offshore leases, which would in-turn lead to job creation and economic stimulus. Unfortunately Wednesday’s defeat of SB 601 indicates that Senate Democrats are still placing partisan politics ahead of our pressing energy and financial needs. This negative posture couldn’t come at a worse time. Legislators in Richmond should all consider jobs and the state’s financial outlook their top priorities.”

 ####

About Senator Ryan McDougle

A native of Hanover, Ryan McDougle was sworn in for his 2^nd term in the Virginia Senate in 2008. He represents citizens in the counties of Caroline, Essex, Hanover, King William, King and Queen, Middlesex, and  part of Spotsylvania. Senator McDougle previously served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2002 to 2005. He now sits on the Senate Transportation; Courts of Justice; Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources; and Rehabilitation and Social Services Committees. He also serves as Deputy Republican Whip and as a member of the Supreme Court’s Committee on District Courts.

The following are articles from newspapers, blogs, and other news sources throughout the Commonwealth and the country featuring members of the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus.

• Senators Emmett Hanger, Jr. and Jill Vogel
  • Bills Pass to Ease Restrictions on Concealed Weapons – The Pocomoke Public Eye - Two bills that would allow handgun owners to lock weapons in their cars and permit those with concealed carry permits to bring firearms into restaurants were approved in Virginia's Senate on Tuesday.
• Senators Ryan McDougle and Walter Stosch
  • IT authority for governor approved – The Richmond Times-Dispatch - The state Senate is falling in line behind a measure giving the governor a direct say in the state's computer bureaucracy and its stormy relationship with contractor Northrop Grumman.
• Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr.
  • State legislation changes houses – fredericksburg.com - The legislative session marked its halfway point yesterday, with legislators holding floor sessions for hours to handle hundreds of bills before a midnight "crossover" deadline by which each house was to finish its own bills.
  • Virginia Senate approves collecting taxes on online sales – The Virginian-Pilot - A bill that would require global online shopping giants such as Amazon to start collecting and paying Virginia sales taxes won easy Senate passage Tuesday.
• Senator Stephen Newman
  • Legislation seeks to help students succeed – The Daily Times - Gov. Bob McDonnell says charter schools, online educational programs and college partnerships can boost the performance of Virginia's public school students -- especially those at risk or in underperforming districts.
• Senator Mark Obenshain
  • Valley Legislators Applaud Rest Area's Re-Opening – WHSV.com - Dels. Matt Lohr (R-Broadway), Todd Gilbert (R-Shenandoah), Steve Landes (R-Weyers Cave), Dickie Bell (R-Staunton), Ben Cline (R-Rockbridge) and Sen. Mark Obenshain (R-Harrisonburg) all joined in commending Gov. Bob McDonnell for keeping his promise to re-open rest areas throughout the Commonwealth.
  • High Stakes For Higher Ed – Daily News-Record - As a tuition-paying parent of a James Madison University student, state Sen. Mark Obenshain said he's worried that money raised through student fees could soon be deposited into the state's general fund.
  • Planned Parenthood license plates bill clears Va. Senate – The Washington Post - The Virginia Senate, controlled by Democrats, has passed a measure that would create a specialty state license plate with the message "Trust Women/Respect Choice."
  • Most Virginia death penalty expansion bills rejected – The Virginian-Pilot - With a governor supportive of expanding capital punishment finally in office, this was going to be the year a perennial effort to repeal the state’s so-called  triggerman  law finally found success.
• Senator Jill Vogel
  • Autism Bill Passes Senate – Leesburg Today - News some Loudoun families have been waiting for came today. A bill that would mandate insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder passed the Senate by a 27-13 vote. Both of Loudoun's representatives, Sen. Mark Herring (D-33) and Sen. Jill Holtzman Vogel (R-27), voted in favor of the bill.
• Senator Frank Wagner
  • Governors to come together over wind energy – The Virginian-Pilot - Gov. Bob McDonnell and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar don't have much in common when it comes to offshore drilling, but wind energy may be another story.
• Senator William Wampler, Jr.
  • In private, Virginia governor pushes deep budget cuts – The Washington Post - Virginia Gov. Robert F. McDonnell (R) has privately recommended cutting $730 million from K-12 education and $300 million from health programs, as well as changing the state retirement system and requiring 10 days of furloughs for state employees, all to help offset a $2.2 billion budget shortfall over two years, according to sources familiar with the plan.

Article Content

The following are articles from newspapers, blogs, and other news sources throughout the Commonwealth and the country featuring members of the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus.

• Multiple Senators
  • Senate votes for speed limit, handgun bills – The Virginian-Pilot - Bills that would boost speed limits on some Virginia highways, allow handgun owners to lock weapons in their cars and permit those with concealed carry permits to bring firearms into restaurants each gained approval in Virginia's Senate on Tuesday.
• Senators Ryan McDougle and Senator Stephen Martin
  • Panel delays anti-gang bill – Star-Tribune - of a bill to increase the penalty for the use of e-mail, text messages or other electronic transmissions by criminal street gangs.
• Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr.
  • More school cuts loom – NewsVirginian.com - Area schools superintendents were digesting news Wednesday of Gov. Robert F. McDonnell’s proposed $731 million in additional cuts to K-12 education for the next two years, but said the news from McDonnell can’t be positive.
  • ‘Amazon’ bill headed to the House – Richmond BizSense - Amazon has a history of avoiding state sales taxes, and Virginia’s online
    sales tax bill is something they’ve seen before.
• Senator Stephen Newman
  • Senate OK’s bill against infanticide – Gainesville Times - In December, a Campbell County woman ended the life of her newborn baby by suffocation. Because the baby’s umbilical cord had not yet been cut or the placenta detached, the woman has not faced any criminal charges or other legal consequences.
• Senator Mark Obenshain
  • Dealing with Guns and Drugs – Richmond.com - This year’s General Assembly session, convened on Jan. 13, is a budget year session. Meaning that, according to schedule, it will run two months. A total of 2,640 bills have been presented for consideration this year.
• Senator Walter Stosch
  • Lawmakers divided on furlough proposal for state workers – Richmond Times-Dispatch - Lawmakers are divided over Gov. Bob McDonnell's proposal to save state jobs by forcing those who have them to take 10 days of unpaid vacation over the next two years.

Article Content

This was “crossover” week in the Virginia General Assembly, a busy period when all Senate bills had to be considered and voted on by the Senate before being transferred to the House of Delegates and vice-versa.  From this time forward the Senate will be voting on House bills, which have passed successfully through the House committee process and full House chamber.  

Senator McDougle Acts to Prevent Proposed Federal Emissions Standards from Crippling State’s Energy Infrastructure

A bill sponsored by Senator Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover) aimed at protecting Virginia residents and businesses from potentially significant electricity rate increases due to newly-proposed federal regulations passed the Senate on Monday with wide bipartisan support. Senate Bill 128 will ensure that Virginia electricity generators will be able to meet current and future demand despite the enactment of new, more stringent ozone standards proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA).

The Commonwealth participates in the US-EPA’s emissions trading program whereby electricity generators must have sufficient “emissions allocations” in order to generate electricity. This is considered to be the most cost effective method to achieve maximum environmental benefits. Specifically, the existing system limits the discharge of nitrogen and sulfur air emissions. However, based on regulations promulgated by the Virginia Air Pollution Control Board, electricity generators are prohibited from purchasing these important emissions allocations if they do not meet a federally-established benchmark known as the 8-hour ozone standard.

Currently all but one area in Virginia satisfies this standard.  However, the newly-proposed US-EPA changes to the standard, which would take effect early next year, would render nearly every developed area in the state as “nonattainment” for exceeding the new, stricter standard. Without the passage of the legislation sponsored by Senator McDougle, virtually all electricity generators in the Commonwealth could be prohibited from purchasing the required emissions allocations, severely limiting the state’s electricity infrastructure. Coal-fired generation currently accounts for approximately 50 percent of the states generating capabilities. Thus, without this new law, major price increases would result from switching from coal-based to much more expensive fuel sources and imported power.

“Virginia is the only state in the country with regulations that restrict the purchase of emissions allocations, which are legally required for electricity generators to operate,” said Senator McDougle. “Our citizens and businesses cannot afford the change that this represents. If these generators can’t purchase sufficient allocations, electricity shortages and price increases are almost a certain result.  After careful review, both Republicans and Democrats in the Senate have voted for my bill, agreeing that this is the best way to meet electricity needs and to stay economically viable.”

Looking to next week, the Senate must produce amendments to former Governor Kaine’s introduced budget on Sunday, February 21^st after Senate Finance Committee members meet and decide which budget items to amend from former Governor Kaine’s proposed budget.  The full Senate intends to vote on the budget and amendments on Thursday, February 25th.  As the General Assembly moves towards the half way mark, the major focus will continue to be balancing the state budget.  Senator McDougle is carefully considering which cuts must be made in the state’s biennial budget and is reviewing the Senate Finance Committee’s recommendations.  He appreciates the hearing the views and feedback of thousands of his constituents.  To express views on legislation or a budget matter, constituents are encouraged to continue to contact Senator McDougle at district04@senate.virginia.gov or by phone at 804-698-7504.  For weekly news updates, please visit www.ryanmcdougle.com.  

Article Content

Senator McDougle Focuses on Difficult Budget Process and Key Legislation

Yesterday Senator Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover) made the difficult decision to vote against the biennial budget as proposed by his Senate Democrat colleagues. This year the state faces the most challenging budget dilemma in the modern era.  As is the case throughout the country, the Commonwealth must contend with decreased revenue as businesses and citizens have struggled to maintain fiscal balance in this distressed economy. Senator McDougle decided to vote against the Senate version of the budget because it continues to fund recently-created programs and seeks to reverse sound policy in vital areas where public safety could be vulnerable.  

Senator McDougle concedes that the Senate’s budget bill as passed made significant strides towards a balanced budget, but not enough. In particular, certain programs initiated during the past two administrations remain funded at levels commensurate with the higher revenue levels from those periods. “Obviously it is extremely difficult to reduce government programs so dramatically, however just as most Virginians have personally faced tough budget decisions, it is our responsibility to do the same,” said Senator McDougle. “The fact remains we simply cannot spend money that we don’t have. It’s a bad government habit that represents a long, slippery slope if we become accustomed to asking our citizens for more, especially when so many of them are earning less. It just doesn’t add up.”

The Senator is also deeply concerned about measures within the Senate budget amendments that challenge great gains made in public safety in past years by former Governor George Allen.  According to a report written in 2001 called Truth-In-Sentencing in Virginia, “Truth-in-sentencing (TIS) is the most prominent sentencing reform movement of the 1990’s.  The primary objective of TIS is to more closely align the sentence imposed by the judge with the actual amount of time served in prison by restricting or eliminating parole eligibility and good time.  In many instances, these reforms are accompanied by significant increases in the penalties for violent offenders.”
The Senate budget language erodes Virginia’s truth-in-sentencing no parole reform policy and authorizes the use of alternative sentencing regardless of what was ordered by the Judge or Jury and expands early release provisions for certain inmates.  

“Cuts to education, social and healthcare programs are problematic for all Virginians; however, safety must come first,” said Senator McDougle. “Law enforcement history is laden with tragic results of bad public safety policies established for the sake of misguided budget decisions.”

Senator McDougle Supports Fiscal Responsibility, Tax Incentive Legislation
In order to encourage more responsible state spending moving forward, the Senate passed Senate Bill 431, a bill that mandates certain reporting and absolute transparency in state agencies. The bill, which passed the Senate without opposition and now is working its way through the House, will require state agencies to maintain a transaction register including a complete record of all expenditures made with details such as the vendor’s name, date of payment and amount and description of the expense. It also requires posting of credit card reports for all state employees that have been issued one. “In keeping with our fresh approach of implementing best practices in our financial management for our state, this legislation provides for more accountability within our state agencies, making it clear what is being spent with our taxpayer’s valuable dollars,” Senator McDougle said.  

Continuing its trend towards improving the environment for sound economic recovery, the Generally Assembly continues to pass meaningful legislation meant to provide tax relief to Virginia residents and businesses. Senate Bill 428, which recently passed through the Senate unanimously, is now swiftly moving in the House. The law would provide tax exemptions for capital gains for the amount taxed under federal income tax standards. “Anything the Virginia legislature can reasonably do to encourage private investment in Virginia right now is good government,” according to Senator McDougle.

Senate, House Pass Offshore Royalties Bill
On Monday the Senate approved a bipartisan bill, House Bill 756, meant to ensure that revenues received from future offshore oil exploration will be earmarked to two crucial areas: alternative energy research and Virginia’s transportation needs. Introduced in the House by Del. Chris Stolle (R-Virginia Beach), the bill directs 70% of those revenues and royalties to the Transportation Trust Fund, the state’s road and rail fund; 10% to local transportation projects; and 20% to the Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium. Although critics claim the measure is largely symbolic because any benefits are likely years away, Senator McDougle says the groundwork must be established early to ensure the state receives and allocates the future oil exploration revenues to critical areas.  This action marks a shift of opinion from Democrat members, who less than a month ago voted on a purely party line vote to kill the Senate companion to this bill.    

“While Virginia and nearly every other state in the country are plagued by budget problems, North Dakota is flush with a $600 million surplus due to their newfound oil development industry,” noted Senator McDougle. “Although their discovery was obviously under dry ground and easier to reach than offshore deposits, their story provides an excellent example of the dramatic benefits to states engaged in environmentally responsible oil exploration.”

Following Crossover, House Considers Common Sense Legislation Passed by Senate
Senator McDougle is pleased to see the House acting quickly on bi-partisan legislation already passed through the Senate:

Senate Bill 467 – Safeguards Virginia residents by requiring court officials to work directly with counter-part officials in other states to ensure that protective orders of the Commonwealth are executed elsewhere.

Senate Bill 55 – Extends the period to 45 days before an election for absentee ballots to be available and accepted, making it easier for temporarily out-of-state residents to vote. This law will support citizens away due to active duty military service, membership in the merchant marines, or in temporary residence outside of the country. Spouses are also included.

(Richmond, March 1, 2010) The Virginia Senate Republican Caucus today voted unanimously to elect Senator Ryan T. McDougle (R – Hanover) to serve as the Caucus’ Republican Leader Pro Tempore.  The position, previously held by former Senator Kenneth W. Stolle, was left vacant when Stolle resigned his seat to become Sheriff of Virginia Beach.

                “Though he has only been in the Senate four years, Ryan has shown himself to be one of our most energetic and engaged members,” commented Senate Republican Leader Thomas K. Norment, Jr. (R – James City), who placed McDougle’s name in nomination for the position.  “We have a tremendous number o f opportunities ahead of us in the coming months with elections and redistricting fast approaching.  It is important that we have a full leadership slate as we approach these challenges.  And it is beneficial for the Caucus to engage someone with Ryan’s enthusiasm in this role.”

                The position of Leader Pro Tempore is established in the by-laws of the Senate Republican Caucus to work on projects assigned by the Republican Leader.  The Leader Pro Tempore serves in the place of the Republican Leader in the absence of the Leader.  In this role, McDougle joins the Caucus’ leadership team that currently includes Norment as Republican Leader, Senator Stephen D. Newman (R – Lynchburg) as Caucus Chair, Senators Mark D. Obenshain (R – Harrisonburg) and Frank W. Wagner (R – Virginia Beach) as Whips, and Senator Walter A. Stosch (R – Henrico) as Leader Emeritus.

                “Ryan has a unique capacity to serve in this position,” said Senator Newman, who seconded McDougle’s nomination.  “He has strong political instincts, executes effective grassroots operations in his district, and has a proven ability to work collaboratively with the business community.  By placing Ryan in a position of leadership, we anticipate him being able to use the talents that have helped him individually for the benefit of the Caucus as a whole.  In so doing, we have immediately strengthened our Caucus.”

                McDougle was first elected to the Senate in a special election in January, 2006 to fill the unexpired term left by the election of former Senator Bill Bolling as Lieutenant Governor.  In that election, McDougle garnered over 80% of the vote.  He was re-elected without opposition in 2007.  Prior to his election to the Senate, McDougle represented the 97^th District in the House of Delegates for two terms.  He currently represents all of Caroline, Essex, Hanover, King and Queen, King William, and Middlesex Counties; and part of Spotsylvania County.  He serves on the Committees for Agriculture, Conservation, and Natural Resources; Courts of Justice; Rehabilitation and Social Services; and Transportation.  In 2008, McDougle was appointed a Deputy Whip within the Republican Caucus.

                “I humbly accept the responsibility that has been placed on me today,” McDougle said in accepting the position.  “I have watched the Republican Caucus evolve over the past two years under the current leadership team.  In that time, we have articulated a positive vision for Virginia, become more cohesive as a group, and begun unprecedented efforts to prepare to be competitive in future elections.  The Caucus is moving in the right direction and I am honored to be asked to serve as part of the leadership team that will continue to move the Caucus forward as a team.”

The following are articles from newspapers, blogs, and other news sources throughout the Commonwealth and the country featuring members of the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus. 

• Multiple Senators
  • Politics vs. principle on unemployment aid – The Virginian-Pilot - Last year, Republican lawmakers were excoriated for rejecting $125 million in federal aid for jobless workers in Virginia.
• Senator Harry Blevins
  • Motorist-safety measures falter in House panel – Richmond Times-Dispatch - Two bills aimed at improving motorist safety were run off the legislative road this week in a House of Delegates subcommittee, but two other measures seem on their way to eventual passage in the General Assembly.
• Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr.
  • House 'Amazon bill' dies in committee – fredericksburg.com - A House subcommittee this week killed a bill to force big online retailers to collect and remit Virginia sales tax to the state.
  • Gun backers push to peel back limits – Associated Press - Gun control advocates think, if not pray, they can win by losing when the Supreme Court decides whether the constitutional right to possess guns serves as a check on state and local regulation of firearms.
• Senator Ryan McDougle
  • Panel blocks bid to ease flooded-car restrictions – The Virginian-Pilot - Consumer advocates have succeeded, at least for this year, in derailing an attempt to raise the threshold for reporting water damage to cars from $1,000 to $5,000.
• Senator Frank Quayle
  • Legislation to block OLF is grounded – Tidewater News - Legislation that could have stopped the Navy from locating an Outlying Landing Field in Western Tidewater has been refused permission for takeoff this year. But OLF opponents aren’t giving up.
  • State officials warn of indefinite closures to shellfish harvesting – The Daily Press - Upper creek beds and other polluted waterways may be closed indefinitely to shellfish harvesting due to a proposed budget cut, a state Health Department official warned on Friday.
• Senator Richard Stuart
  • The cost of filing a lawsuit in Va. could increase – wtop.com - The state of Virginia may have found a solution to close its $4 billion budget gap.
  • Bill proposes raising fees for filing lawsuits – Associated Press - Virginia lawmakers are considering imposing the highest lawsuit-filing fees in the country as one way of plugging a $4 billion state budget gap.
  •  Assembly extends menhaden limits – fredericksburg.com - Bills that keep oversight of menhaden in legislative hands are wending their way through the General Assembly process.

Article Content

The following are articles from newspapers, blogs, and other news sources throughout the Commonwealth and the country featuring members of the Virginia Senate Republican Caucus. 

• Multiple Senators
  • Despite Senate maneuvers, gun bills head to McDonnell – The Roanoke Times - Bills that would ease restrictions on guns in bars and in cars are headed to the desk of Gov. Bob McDonnell, even as a Senate subcommittee seeks to bottle up similar measures.
• Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr.
  • House panel carries over bill to index gas tax – Richmond Times-Dispatch - The House Finance Committee voted today to carry over until next year a bill to increase the gas tax as cars become more fuel-efficient.
• Senator Ryan McDougle
  • McDougle rounds out GOP Senate leadership – Bearing Drift - State Sen. Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover) was unanimously selected by his peers to serve as the Republican Caucus Pro Tempore today, completing the caucus’ leadership team.
• Senator Mark Obenshain
  • Senate Democrats set up panel to quash gun bills – Richmond Times-Dispatch - A number of House of Delegates bills that would make it easier to purchase, carry and use guns have been routed to a newly created Senate subcommittee loaded with legislators opposed to expanding gun rights.
• Senator Walter Stosch
  • Schools, health would be hit by legislators, too – The Virginian-Pilot - The General Assembly's budget-writing committees set the stage Sunday for battles over funding of public schools and health care safety- net programs, producing competing plans for addressing a two- year, $4.2 billion state revenue shortfall.
• Senator Jill Vogel
  • GOP officials push Obama for health care reset – The Roanoke Times - Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling and two Republican state legislators said Monday that President Obama should go back to the drawing board in crafting a health care reform plan and include ideas advanced by GOP lawmakers.
  • Bolling, legislators urge Obama, Congress to start over on health-care reform – The Washington Post - http://voices.washingtonpost.com/virginiapolitics/2010/03/post_615.html

Richmond – This week Virginia legislators welcomed March with a hopeful eye towards warmer weather and positive developments on the budget front. Senators and House representatives are working to bridge significant budget gaps between the two houses of the General Assembly. Senator Ryan McDougle (R-Hanover) supports provisions passed in both houses that eliminate or reduce programs which were established by previous Administrations when the state enjoyed greater revenue.

“I have spoken at great lengths to my colleagues in the Senate about the need to proceed responsibly as the custodians of our taxpayer’s dollars,” said Senator McDougle. “As the budget conferees from the Senate and House meet, I will continue to encourage them to act in the best interest of all Virginians, avoiding tax increases and other financial burdens by prioritizing only the critical needs of our state government. I applaud Governor McDonnell for his jobs creation legislation, which creates incentives for businesses to move to and expand in Virginia.”

Over 80% of the state’s General Fund revenues come from state income and sales taxes, which given the economic realities we currently face, are significantly reduced. The budget bill is now being negotiated by House and Senate budget conferees. The Senate conferees led by Democrat Senator Colgan include Democrat Senators Saslaw, Houck, Howell, and also include Republican Senators Stosch and Wampler. The House Conferees are led by Delegate Putney and include Republican Delegates K. Cox, Sherwood, Landes, S.C. Jones and include Democrat Delegate Joannou.

Legislation Passed in Recent Weeks Await Executive Action
As the Virginia General Assembly entered the last two weeks of this year’s session, legislators are working to complete bills to be sent to the Governor’s desk and signed into law. Legislation that has passed both houses and is currently pending action by the Governor McDonnell includes SB128, which was introduced by Senator McDougle. The bill will enable electric generators within the Commonwealth to continue participation in an emissions trading program despite more stringent benchmarks that could be established by the US-Environmental Protection Agency.  This program is Virginia’s most cost effective method to achieve maximum environmental benefits while continuing to satisfy the states energy needs. Had this legislation not passed, regulations established by the Federal Governor’s Environment Protection Agency (EPA) could have hindered the ability of utilities to generate power, sharply increasing energy costs for Virginia residents. The Commonwealth would have been the only state to be so encumbered.

Another bill that has passed through the General Assembly and is expected to be signed into law is SB236, which will improve oversight and efficiencies in the Virginia Information Technology Technologies Agency (VITA). The adjustments have been based on the recommendations of a two year study of the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) following many delays and questionable expenditures within Virginia’s large IT system improvement program. The new law will replace the current supervision process of the Information Technology Investment Board with a Chief Information Officer Appointed by the Governor.

“The JLARC findings demonstrate the need for executive management of our largest private contract,” said Senator McDougle. “When important decisions must be made that influence progress in this area, infighting amongst committees or boards only serves to obstruct what should be an efficient process. I am pleased to see that this legislation is now ready to be signed by Governor McDonnell,” he said.

Senator McDougle would like to thank the thousands of constituents who have contacted him thus far during the 2010 General Assembly to express their views and feedback about the budget and specific legislation.  He encourages his constituents to continue to offer their ideas and thoughts to him by e-mail at district04@senate.virginia.gov or through his website at www.ryanmcdougle.com.  He may also be reached by phone at 804-698-7504.