All Virginians are understandably anxious about their economic future. Despite the early successes of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the recent surge in the stock market, there remains much cause for concern. Although the rise in the unemployment rate is not as steep as it once was, many Virginians are still losing their jobs every single month and many that have lost jobs have used up their unemployment and have become discourage.

Still, there is reason for optimism. Once again, Virginia was honored this year with the title of “Best Managed State in the Nation.” Moreover, for the third year in a row, Virginia has been called the best state for business. Virginia has also been called the “best state for a child to have lifetime success.”

Leveraging Virginia’s Strengths

Thus, the House of Delegates needs to build on the solid economic foundation already in place here. As a member of the House, I will address our pressing economic concerns in the following ways:

• I will propose that Virginia fund small business incubators to help start small businesses across the state. Small businesses are the bedrock of building our economy and providing jobs for Virginians.
• I will support tax credits to business adding net new jobs to our local economy.
• I will encourage the utilization of our great universities research capability to create new industries and products which lead to new jobs for Virginians, and to be laboratories of cutting edge science and biotechnology industries.
• I will work to turn Virginia into a leader in the renewable and green energy industry by offering tax incentives to green businesses to locate in the Commonwealth.
• I will look to expand our tourism industry and promote the great richness of Virginia history and the beauty of our great state.

The Roadmap to Improving Virginia’s Economic Strength

In order to achieve this economic success, I will focus on addressing our transportation funding, road maintenance and mass transit needs. Without a streamlined integrated transportation system, our future economic growth and prosperity will be greatly compromised. I will work to provide greater access to the metro system by creating light rail options and expanded road systems.

I propose that we invest in our residents, both the youth and adult learner, by providing world class educational opportunities for all Virginian students starting at the pre-kindergarten level and extending through adult continuing education. I will work to change state funding formulas so that Northern Virginia schools will receive a greater percentage of state education dollars. Investing in our universities, colleges and vocational school will position Virginia for the employment needs of the future.

The Result

An integrated transportation system and a well-educated workforce are the cornerstones to creating an infrastructure that will promote business growth and expand our local economic base. Forbes Magazine recognized Virginia as Best State For Business for the 3rd consecutive year. I will work hard to extend that award for future years by investing in Northern Virginia because it is clear that when Northern Virginia is strong the state of Virginia prospers.