The Shadow
By Del. Terry Austin
We’ve finished our first full week of the 2015 General Assembly session and I’m happy to report that things are quickly progressing forward. Our committees and subcommittees are meeting to consider thousands of pieces of legislation, and I speak with constituents daily as they stop by my office and/or call me to share their views.
Over this last year, I have been focused on economic development and looking for new and innovate ways to incentivize growth in our region. The bills we pass in Richmond, even those related to education and energy policy, impact our ability to attract new businesses and grow our economy. I keep this in mind as I meet with folks and consider legislation.
This past week I continued discussions with a number of folks in the governor’s office, including Secretary of Commerce and Trade Maurice Jones. Additionally, I have set up future meetings between local businesses, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Depart-ment of Transportation to discuss possible partnerships and grant opportunities.
On Wednesday, I attended a budget briefing to discuss potential ways to close the budget shortfall. Though nothing is off the table, I can assure you that I remain committed to finding a solution that will cut wasteful spending without raising taxes or placing undue burden back on our localities.
The Republican Caucus is also headlining an effort to make higher education more affordable for students. Our caucus has introduced specific legislation to cap unreasonable student fees, encourage more affordable “flat fee” degrees in high-demand fields and provide more flexibility for small and mid-sized schools.
Virginia has some of the best colleges in the nation, and this is a great start to making these schools more affordable for our students and families.
I also want to thank those of you that have made the trip to Richmond to visit with me during session. I always appreciate hearing from folks back home, and I hope to see more of you as session continues.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions, concerns, or if I may be of assistance.
I can be reached at deltaustin@house.virginia.-gov or by calling (804) 698-1019.
