Goverment & Citizens

In order to address the numerous problems presented by lack of term limits, I propose implementing a system in which, for each successive term, the incumbent in a specific position would need greater than a simple majority to win reelection. Such additional required amount for reelection would be determined as follows: 1% per year served in such position (to a maximum of 15% - or 65% required to win reelection). As an example, a 2nd term Virginia State Senator (who has already served 4 years) would need 54% of the vote to win reelection. This would not only deter ma

I know the economy is going down hill, but speaking on behalf of a majority of state workers times are hard for us as well. I work for the Dept of Social Services and my job is not easy. We work very hard there. The 4 day work week bill did not pass, we have not had a raise in 3 years but we have had massive layoffs, people quiting left and right, hiring freezes. Which leaves your dedicated workers picking up the extra work. It's hard on us to cover our job plus take on added responsibilities. By the time the weekend gets here, we are just exhausted.

If you need to save $10 million in state salaries, don't lay off (or not hire) 150 employees.  Instead, reduce salaries of all state employess, but not by an across-the-board percent, which is regressive like the sales tax and hurts the lowest income earner the most.

Instead, use a graduated percentage reduction like the federal and state income taxes.  For example, reduce salaries of employees earning over 150,000 by 5%, salaries 75,000 up to 149,999 by 3%, and salaries below 75,000 by 2%.  Thus, everybody pays a share in the savings.

With the possibility of "economic stimulus" funding from the federal government to states for infrastructure, use that opportunity to not only improve our roads, bridges, etc. but invest in alternative energy to heat/cool government institutions. This will save ongoing costs for the state, create more "green jobs", improve the environment, and set a good example for the rest of the country and our citizens.

The Department of Motor Vehicles assigns Demerit Points when you commit a traffic violation. From the DMV Website: "Different violations carry different point assignments, depending on the seriousness of the offense. For example, you will receive three demerit points if you make an improper U-turn. However, you will receive six demerit points if you speed 20 miles per hour or more above the posted speed limit. Demerit points remain valid two years from the date you commit an offense." 

Code every state vehicle with a specific alpha-numeric sequence and clearly post a fraud waste and abuse hotline on the back of the vehicle in bold letters.  This will discourage abuse of government authority/vehicles.  Government employees should be required to sign out vehicles, log mileage upon check-out and return, fuel level upon check-out and return, and any potential problems with the vehicle.  This will ensure that vehicles are tightly controlled by a centralized agency and maintenance is up to date and performed properly and efficiently.  Responsibility and acco

So here's my solution to the Illegal Immigration problem in the state of Virginia and the United States as a whole.

Step 1: Offer a 6 month amnesty period to illegal immigrants, allowing them to complete an accelerated U.S. citizenship program during this time leading to legal status.

Step 2: After the 6 month amnesty period passes, any business that is caught willfully employing illegal immigrants will be fined 75% of their net revenue for the year.

Impose a term limit of no more than 2 terms on members of the House of Delegates.  This will have a dual benefit of encouraging people to take part in our political process and ensuring that new and fresh ideas and perspectives are continually injected into the state government.