"Over the last two years, our Caucus has worked together with Governor McDonnell to cut unnecessary government spending, reform duplicative programs and exercise general fiscal prudence. Frugal, common-sense measures, coupled with better than projected revenue collections, led to a budget surplus of $403.2 million for FY 2010 and another surplus of $311 for FY 2011," said Howell.

The $311 million surplus may be adjusted later in the month to reflect final state agency savings. For the second year in a row, the surplus is attributable to frugal budgeting, low taxes and strategic investments. The surplus revenues are, in large part, previously obligated through state budget language addressing allocations of surplus. Though figures are not final, it is expected that the surplus will include a $146.6 million allocation to the Revenue Stabilization Fund, $32.2 million to the Water Quality Fund, $23.0 million for the Transportation share of the Accelerated Sales Tax, $8.9 million to the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, $4.3 million for Tornado Relief, $7.5 million to BRAC Obligations and $7.4 million to supplement Public Safety Funding for Sheriff's Offices. Many of these allocations were pre-designated by the 2011 Budget Bill and any remainder is expected to go into the VRS.

"The House has worked together with and supported the Governor on budgetary issues as well as economic development. The Governor's efforts to bring more jobs to Virginia was one key factor in stimulating vitality and improving revenue flow throughout the Commonwealth. We must continue to spend and save wisely, mindful of the tough challenges ahead. In addition to designating $114 million during the 2011 General Assembly Session for the Rainy Day Fund, we wisely put aside a further $146 million for the FY 2012-2014 biennium to deal with any future contingencies," said Majority Leader Kirk Cox (R-Colonial Heights).

"We are thrilled that the Commonwealth has upheld its balanced budget requirement, posting surplus figures while many other states and the federal government are grappling with dire budgetary challenges. It is more important than ever that the Commonwealth tighten its belt, in light of the continuing recovery and uncertainty in Washington," said Howell. "Since 2008, citizens and legislators have learned that the economy will not always be buoyant, so we must save whenever possible to prepare ourselves for difficulties in the future. I believe the hard work of the Governor and our Caucus has positioned Virginia as one of the most fiscally responsible states in the country and has financially prepared Virginia moving forward."

“Clay has been a true champion for the interests and values of the citizens he ably has represented from Warren, Frederick and Fauquier Counties since 2002.  His legal acumen and steady stewardship of the Civil Subcommittee of the House Courts of Justice Committee, of which he also was Vice Chair,  garnered well-deserved praise on both sides of the aisle.  He also has been a long-standing advocate for government reform, especially in the vital areas of transportation, education and health care.  His success in these and many other policy areas have resulted from his uncanny ability to listen and bring people together around sensible solutions to the every day challenges faces by hard-working, law-abiding and tax-paying Virginians and their families.

“Family is a true blessing and, like so many, I’ve known Clay as a loving family man, which was the impetus for today’s decision so he could spend more time with his wonderful wife, Stacey, and be more involved in the raising of his beautiful children Madagan and Clayton.  I commend and thank Clay for his distinguished service and wish him continued success in what I hope will be a rewarding life beyond the General Assembly.”

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“I wholeheartedly congratulate Gordon Helsel on his very strong win in yesterday’s special election,” said Speaker Howell.  “Delegate-elect Helsel combines distinguished service in business, the military and government with an energetic style and common-sense approach to problem solving.  As a dedicated proponent of keeping taxes competitively low and expanding job-creating opportunities, Gordon possesses not only a valuable understanding of these and other central issues but also a desire to advance practical solutions that produce real results for those he serves.  These and many more admirable characteristics make him an ideal addition to our once-again 61-member strong House Republican Majority.  Like so many, I look forward to serving with Delegate Helsel in his latest leadership position.”

Speaker Howell has decided to appoint Delegate Helsel to two important standing committees of the House of Delegates.  He will serve on the House Health, Welfare and Institutions (HWI) Committee as well as the House Science and Technology (S&T) Committee.  Among other matters, the HWI Committee considers issues concerning person with disabilities, public buildings and public health professions as well as public policies surrounding drugs, social services and welfare and the regulation of health care professionals and associated occupations.  Helsel will replace Delegate Clay Athey who volunteered to give him up seat on that committee.  The S&T Committee focuses primarily on matters relating to technology, engineering, research and development; standards and measures; and the critical area of enhancing the effectiveness of government through technology.

In addition, the Speaker is appointing Delegate Helsel to the Fort Monroe Authority Board of Trustees.  He will fill former Delegate Gear’s position on this panel that’s so important to the future of the Lower Peninsula.

William J. Howell is the 54^th Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates and has led the 100-member chamber since 2003.  First elected a delegate in 1987, he represents the 28^th House District, which includes parts of Stafford County and the City of Fredericksburg.  As Speaker, Howell performs a number of duties, including assigning all bills to House committees and appointing the chairs and members of each of the 14 standing committees of the House.  He also name delegates and citizens to various boards and commissions.

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– Structurally Balancing Budget This Year Helps Avoid Calls for Higher Taxes Next Year –

– State Spending Revenues Remain below Fiscal Year 2007 Level –

RICHMOND, VA – Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford) today issued the following statement on the agreement by House and Senate negotiators on House Bill 1500, amendments to the state budget:

“Like all Virginians, I am pleased that delegates and senators have reached agreement on differences over how best to amend the existing state budget. Balancing budgets is never easy, especially when the economic recovery is still uncertain and taxpayers, businesses and families continue struggling to live within their means. State finances are no different. Unlike Washington, Virginia has a constitutionally required balanced budget requirement. By setting clear priorities, the General Assembly has produced responsible and fiscally sound budget amendments. Today’s budget conference report funds core government services while also enacting sensible structural reforms in state spending that strengthen the state’s ledger and Virginia’s competitive position for more jobs and prosperity.

“Key priorities advanced by our House Republican Majority are reflected in the final budget accord, including:

· No new fees or higher taxes: The Senate budget proposed several million in fee increases, while the House budget actually reduced fees by about $5 million. The final agreement includes no new taxes, no new fees and actually eliminates $5.7 million of fee increases adopted last year.

· No earmarks for non-state agencies: The Senate budget included funding for such non-government entities as the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, Foodbank and OpSail, among others, while the House budget heeded the Attorney General's opinion that such funding is prohibited by the state constitution.

· No funding or debt for a new "Taj Mahal" to replace the General Assembly Building: The Senate budget proposed $300 million for new/renovated seat of government buildings, while House budget had zero.

· $67 Million Less in Authorized Debt: The Senate budget proposed over $700 million in debt, while the House budget reduced authorized debt by $120 million. The conference report reduces the amount of previously authorized debt by $66.8 million.

· Additional $64 million deposit into the Rainy Day Fund, totaling $114 million: The Senate budget included only $20 million on top of the $50 million included in the Governor’s introduced budget, while the House budget added an additional $64 million. The $114 million total ensures that 50% of the amounts due pursuant to the state constitution in the FY 2013-2014 biennium are set aside now. That’s fiscally prudent.

· Eliminating Accelerated Sales Tax (AST) for 80% of retailers: The Senate budget did not address this structural deficiency, while the House budget eliminated this accounting act for 98% of businesses.

· Investing in Core Government Services: The House prevailed in its insistence of setting aside an additional $30 million for the Behavioral Health Trust Fund to help intellectually and developmentally disabled Virginians. This funding will begin the process of discharging individuals in state training facilities back into our communities. There’s also $32.7 million to capitalize a new transportation infrastructure bank, $66.3 million for higher education and at least $40 million for job-creating economic development efforts. Health care, law enforcement and K-12 education also receive funding, with $104 million in the budget conference report being a one-time supplemental payment of $130 per pupil to help students and local school divisions.

“In these still tight economic times with uncertainty clouding job prospects and business opportunities for growth, I’m especially heartened that by being fiscally responsible this year, House Republicans have helped put state finances in a much stronger position so we can resist the inevitable calls by big-spending Democrats for higher taxes next year.

“Majority Leader Kirk Cox, Appropriations Committee Chairman Lacey Putney and all House budget conferees have served the Commonwealth, their fellow delegates and all Virginians well under tight budget circumstances. I congratulate them on their accomplishment today and look forward to the passage of House Bill 1500 as one of the last items of business before tonight’s scheduled adjournment sine die of the 2011 Regular Session.”

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-- HJR 542 would give Two-Thirds of the States Power to Repeal a Federal Law or Regulation --

RICHMOND, VA - By a vote of 59 to 34, the Virginia House of Delegates today voted to pass and send to the Senate of Virginia House Joint Resolution 542, commonly known as the "Repeal Amendment." This vote is one of the earliest victories for the Repeal Amendment, a nation-wide effort championed in the Commonwealth by Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford) and Delegate James M. LeMunyon (R-Fairfax). Speaker Howell was the first state lawmaker in the country to offer his support for this legislative initiative calling for a 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The Repeal Amendment is gaining additional attention and support not just in Virginia but in many other state legislatures.

HJ 542, patroned by Delegate James LeMunyon, and co-patroned by a total of 51 delegates, is legislation requesting the U.S. Congress to call an amendment convention pursuant to Article V of the United States Constitution for the purpose of proposing a constitutional amendment that permits the repeal of any federal law or regulation by vote of two-thirds of the state legislatures acting in unison.

"Checks and balances are at the heart of the U.S. Constitution and The Repeal Amendment is a timely and thoughtful check on the threat to American liberties posed by our presently out-of-control federal Congress and federal government," said Speaker Howell.

"Like many, I believe the Repeal Amendment will help restore the proper balance of power between the states and the federal government as contemplated by our founding fathers," Howell continued. "With no constitutional requirement for a balanced federal budget, overwhelming levels of national debt, unbridled federal mandates and unconscionable deficit spending by Washington that has mortgaged the futures of current and unborn generations, it is the duty of leaders and concerned citizens to use every tool available to help restore the health and integrity of our republic."

Speaker Howell concluded, "Getting two thirds of state legislatures to agree on repealing a federal law or regulation will not be easy or commonplace. It will happen only if the law or rule is highly unpopular. But, perhaps its most important effect would be deterring further expansion of federal power at the expense of the sovereign people and state governments. That would be a positive step forward."

The text of HJR 542 follows. For more information about The Repeal Amendment, please visit the Speaker's website - www.williamjhowell.org - or go to www.repealamendment.org.

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 542

Offered January 12, 2011

Prefiled December 15, 2010

Making application to the Congress of the United States to call an amendment convention pursuant to Article V of the United States Constitution for the purpose of proposing a constitutional amendment that permits the repeal of any federal law or regulation by vote of two-thirds of the state legislatures.

WHEREAS, Article I of the United States Constitution begins "All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress"; and

WHEREAS, the Congress has exceeded the legislative powers granted in the Constitution thereby encroaching on the powers that are "reserved to the states respectively, or to the people" as the Tenth Amendment affirms and the rights "retained by the people" to which the Ninth Amendment refers; and

WHEREAS, this encroachment includes the accumulation of federal debt, which combined with interest represents a future tax, and is of such great proportion that responsibility for its payment will be passed to future, unborn generations of Americans to assume without their consent, thereby disparaging their rights; and

WHEREAS, this encroachment also includes compelling state and local governments to comply with federal laws and regulations without accompanying funding for such mandates; and

WHEREAS, in Federalist No. 85, Alexander Hamilton wrote in reference to Article V of the Constitution and the calling of a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments that, "We may safely rely on the disposition of the State legislatures to erect barriers against the encroachments of the national authority"; and

WHEREAS, the Constitution should be amended in order to halt federal encroachment and restore a proper balance between the powers of Congress and those of the several states, and to prevent the denial or disparagement of the rights retained by the people; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the Commonwealth of Virginia hereby applies to the Congress of the United States to call an amendment convention pursuant to Article V of the United States Constitution for the purpose of proposing a constitutional amendment that permits the repeal of any federal law or regulation by vote of two-thirds of the state legislatures. The Virginia Delegation to such convention, when called, shall propose the following amendment:

"Any provision of law or regulation of the United States may be repealed by the several states, and such repeal shall be effective when the legislatures of two-thirds of the several states approve resolutions for this purpose that particularly describe the same provision or provisions of law or regulation to be repealed."; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That this resolution is revoked and withdrawn, nullified, and superseded to the same effect as if it had never been passed, and retroactive to the date of passage, if it is used for the purpose of calling a convention or used in support of conducting a convention to amend the Constitution of the United States for any purpose other than consideration of the amendment proposed in this resolution; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Commonwealth of Virginia reserves its right to add future amendments as the legislature deems warranted to this application; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That delegates to such convention, when called, be selected according to procedures established by the legislatures of the several states; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates transmit copies of this resolution to the Speaker of the United States house of Represenatives, the President of the United States Senate, and the members of the Virginia Congressional Delegation so that they may be apprised of the sense of the General Assembly of Virginia in this matter.

On Saturday, November 20, at 4 pm, Caucus Chairman Tim Hugo and Barbara Comstock will join colleagues from the Virginia Senate to provide attendees with a preview of the 2011 General Assembly session.

Filling in for Jimmy, guest host Congressman Randy Forbes and the Speaker discussed the lessons Washington can learn from Virginia:

• The no-tax-increase way from a $4.2 Billion deficit to a balanced budget
• How to foster a pro-business, pro-jobs economy

As well as the sure-fire method to stop job creation—create uncertainty for business with the Obama/Congressional Democrat unclear agenda of bloated government, new taxes, and increased regulation.

During his tenure as Speaker, Howell has led the way in reducing Virginia's per capita expenditures in the legislature from 40th in the Nation to 46th. And, with Senate Democrats running up a tab on the other side of the Capital, you can't expect much better than that.

See the full press release at the Speaker's website.