The Shadow
Dear Constituents of the 37th House District,
It has been an honor to represent you as a Republican in the House of Delegates. I began my service as your Delegate twelve years ago in the 19th District and am now privileged to represent the 37th House District, which includes the counties of Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig, the majority of Rockbridge County, and the cities of Buena Vista, Covington, and Lexington.
I serve on Appropriations (as Ranking Republican), Transportation, Rules and General Laws. In addition to my House Committee appointments, I serve as Chairman of the VA250 Commission, Vice Chair of the I-81 Advisory Committee, and am a member of the Major Economic Incentives Commission (MEI), the Governor’s Advisory Council on Revenue Estimates (GACRE), the Joint Subcommittee on Tax Policy, the Joint Subcommittee on Establishing the Virginia Gaming Commission, and the Joint Subcommittee to Study Elementary & Secondary Education Funding.
Forty-eight years ago, I had a dream of owning my own business. That dream became reality when I launched Austin Electrical Construction with little more than an idea and $125 in my pocket. I believed in the promise of our great country and commonwealth: that hard work and perseverance can lead to success. It wasn’t always easy—there were lean years—but I’m proud that our family business is thriving today.
As a small business owner, I learned that standing up for what matters requires commitment and resolve. That lesson has guided my public service. In the House of Delegates, I’ve focused on practical, common-sense solutions to grow our economy, improve infrastructure, and protect our conservative values. I’m proud of my pro-life voting record and A rating and endorsement from the National Rifle Association.
I often hear folks say that Richmond thinks Virginia ends at Charlottesville. During my time in the legislature, I’ve worked hard to correct that perception. Here in rural Virginia, we face unique challenges that require strong, experienced voices to ensure we are not overlooked. With Fairfax County represented by 15 delegates, seniority is our most effective counterweight to amplify the concerns and priorities of rural communities. As a budget conferee and Ranking Republican on Appropriations, I have fought to ensure the tax dollars we send to Richmond come back home.
We’ve made meaningful progress. Regarding infrastructure and economic development, we secured permanent funding to improve Interstate 81, a vital economic corridor, and invested $80 million to enhance safety on Route 220 in Botetourt County, once the most dangerous section of primary road in Virginia. In Alleghany County, we secured $3.3 million to prepare a pad-ready site for job creation, while in Rockbridge County, we established a revenue stream to enhance the Virginia Horse Center, improving its ability to attract major equestrian events and boosting the local economy.
Public safety remains a top priority. I believe in the rule of law and deeply respect our law enforcement officers and first responders for their willingness to protect and serve our communities. That’s why I’ve worked to increase funding for public safety, including securing $20 million for a new Virginia State Police Division 6 headquarters and $1.95 million for Craig County’s much-needed emergency radio system.
In education, I fully support our efforts to increase investments in early childhood programs, expand capacity, and reduce waiting lists for those in need of Developmental Disability waivers. I was happy to support the merger of Alleghany County and Covington school systems at the request of both localities to create efficiencies and lower tax burdens. As a graduate of Botetourt Technical Education Center, I know the value of skilled trades and have championed programs preparing students for the workforce. Recently, I was able to attend a career signing ceremony where 41 students committed to local jobs—proof that investing in career readiness is worthwhile.
Affordability is another pressing issue. Rising costs are straining families across Virginia. One way to provide relief is by reducing taxes. I was happy to support tax rebates and cutting the state grocery tax, returning your money back to you.
My wife, Kathy and I owe a great deal to the Commonwealth of Virginia. This is where we built our life together, and I want every Virginian to have the same opportunities to thrive. I remain committed to making that vision a reality during our two-month long sessions in Richmond, and when we are back home in the district.
It has been a privilege to serve as your Delegate. While we’ve achieved a lot, there is still much work to do. I humbly ask for your vote in the Republican Primary on June 17th and would be honored to continue representing you in the House of Delegates.
Sincerely,
Delegate Terry Austin
37th House District
