Governor Bob McDonnell announced Monday that an agreement has been reached with Norfolk Southern that could bring passenger rail back to Norfolk in three years. The agreement provides for the speedy upgrading of Norfolk Southern tracks between Norfolk and Petersburg so that they are suitable for use by passenger trains. Funded by an $87 million … Continue reading Passenger rail coming back to Norfolk
Category: Virginia
5% to retirement? Not gonna happen
Governor Bob McDonnell has been releasing his budget proposals over the last few days. Yesterday, he announced his proposal that all workers contribute 5% of their salaries to the state's retirement plan. As The Virginian-Pilot reported, the state has been making this contribution on behalf of the employees since 1983, when it did so in … Continue reading 5% to retirement? Not gonna happen
Northam announces re-election run
Senator Ralph Northam announced today that he will seek a second term in the Virginia Senate. In his newsletter to constituents, of which I am one, the first term Democrat says that while some things have been accomplished, there is still work to be done. I want to help solve these problems for our region … Continue reading Northam announces re-election run
Mayor’s presentation on transportation
Last week, Norfolk's Mayor Paul Fraim made a presentation to Norfolk civic league presidents on transportation. The video of the event is here and is about 30 minutes long. On that same day, The Virginian-Pilot had a lead story which included the picture to the left (click to enlarge) which graphically demonstrates the transportation woes … Continue reading Mayor’s presentation on transportation
Part of health care law ruled unconstitutional
Judge Henry Hudson ruled today that the portion of the health care reform bill that requires individuals to purchase insurance is unconstitutional. In a 42-page opinion (below the fold) the judge ordered that part severed from the bill. With the contrary rulings by judges in Lynchburg and in Michigan, the final determination will ultimately be … Continue reading Part of health care law ruled unconstitutional
Marshal some courage on Dillon Rule
My latest column, title above, appeared in The Virginian-Pilot Wednesday (and made it to the Whipple Clips this morning - a first 😉 ). I found it interesting that the Governor's Commission on Government Reform & Restructuring was limited in its ability to review the Dillon Rule. Seems to me that if you are serious … Continue reading Marshal some courage on Dillon Rule
Moran elected DPVA chair
As you all know by now, this past Saturday, the Central Committee of the Democratic Party of Virginia elected Brian Moran as chairman. I did manage to broadcast live the events of the day. If you missed it, you can watch here. The speeches prior to the vote start at about the 19:00 mark. Congratulations … Continue reading Moran elected DPVA chair
Reminder: Redistricting hearing tonight
Just a quick reminder that the redistricting subcommittee of the Senate Privileges and Elections Committee will be holding a public hearing tonight. The meeting is at 7pm at the The Forum, Building A, Tidewater Community College (120 Campus Drive, Portsmouth, VA). If you cannot attend the hearing, your comments are still welcome. Send written comments … Continue reading Reminder: Redistricting hearing tonight
A long but productive day
I spent the day in Richmond for the pre-legislative session of the Women's Roundtable. It was good to see so many from around the state who came together to listen to an impressive list of speakers and their planned legislative agendas for the upcoming session, including a couple of members of the Governor's cabinet. We … Continue reading A long but productive day
HRC Norfolk rally for DADT repeal
The Human Rights Campaign is holding a rally to support "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repeal in Norfolk this Wednesday, December 1, at 10:00am at the Five Points Community Farm Market, 2500 Church Street. The full information, including the information if you cannot attend, is below the fold. THE PUSH IS ON!! Please join the Human … Continue reading HRC Norfolk rally for DADT repeal
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 