Overview
Ideas matter. Issues matter. Please take time to read my positions on some of the important issues facing the Commonwealth and our region. Please tell us what you think. I will attempt to keep you informed about bills that relate to these issues.
EDUCATION: BUILDING A SYSTEM THAT WORKS FOR ALL OF US
• Preschool Education: A Jump-Start to Success
Both educators and parents recognize the importance of quality preschool education as the basis of future success in schools. Read more.
• Elementary Education: Excellence and Equity Centered on Children
Virginia ranks 9th in personal income but is 37th among states in per pupil spending, and 30th among states in average teacher salary. Read more.
• High School Education: Build on the Basics While Redesigning for the Future
Our schools, especially our high schools, need more resources to teach our children what they need to know to compete and succeed in the 21st century. Read more.
• Crisis in Math & Science Education: What is to be Done
The scientific and academic community has been warning about the crisis in math and science education for years; our schools are not producing the scientists, engineers and mathematicians necessary for this country to maintain its science and technological preeminence, thereby putting our global economic prominence at risk. Read more.
• Post-Secondary Education: Ensuring the Commonwealth's Ability to Compete
For many Virginians, a college degree is essential to succeed in today’s economy, yet only 35% of college-age Virginians are actually enrolled in a two or four year college. Increasing these enrollments means keeping tuition within reasonable limits and making more grants as appropriate to permit our children to access our colleges and universities. Read more.
BUILDING BETTER COMMUNITIES
Good communities do not just happen; they are the product of countless decisions by public servants and private parties who seek to create a high quality of life while building opportunities for their families and neighbors. Read more.
ECONOMIC VITALITY AND OPPORTUNITY
To compete and thrive in the 21st Century, we will need to reinforce our economic vitality and redouble our efforts to expand opportunity for all citizens to participate in the wealth and success of the region. Read more.
PRESERVATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Our natural resources not only enhance our quality of life but are essential to certain industries such as agriculture, forestry, sea food, and tourism. Read more.
TRANSPORTATION
Despite numerous efforts over the last four years, the Commonwealth is not adequately addressing our transportation needs. Read more.
REPRODUCTIVE CHOICE
The Constitutional Right to freedom of reproductive choice must remain legal, and its exercise safe and rare. Read more.
HEALTHCARE
Access to reasonably priced quality health care is a challenge to many Virginians of all ages and backgrounds. Read more.
