Welcome
The 2013 session of the Virginia General Assembly adjourned on Saturday, February 23rd, sine die, after 45 days of debate and discussion on various legislation introduced by members of the House and the Senate. I would like to express my thanks to each of you who participated in the legislative process by contacting me, either via e-mail, telephone or personally visiting the Capitol. Your willingness to be part of the process and your interest in the government of our Commonwealth is truly appreciated.
While numerous legislative initiatives were introduced and approved, the budget, transportation and the Port of Virginia were my primary focus. Transporation funding and the solutions needed to resolve the critical needs of Hampton Roads and our Commonwealth have been discussed for years. The long term infrastructure problem remained because transportation's primary funding source, the gas tax, is a declining source of revenue. Inflation, increased fuel efficiency standards and the increase of alternative fuel vehicles negatively impact gas tax revenues.
With the passage of House Bill 2313, this legislation addresses our maintenance funding shortfall, generates hundreds of millions of dollars for new road, highway and rail construction, alleviating congestion in Hampton Roads. HB 2313 provides transportation funding with stable long-term, sustanable revenue sources. The future of Hampton Roads and our Commonwealth has been strengthened with the passage of HB2313.
Thank you for visiting my website. Feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance to you in the future.
Sincerely,
S. Chris Jones
