Do you support Virginia state government entering into agreements with the private sector for highway construction and maintenance? Typically, these agreements often result in projects that are completed more quickly and at a lower cost. However, the state relinquishes some degree of control over the long run.
Should Virginia lower its corporate income tax rate to attract new industries, encourage existing ones to expand, and stimulate job growth? Virginia’s corporate rate is already lower than most of her sister states. However, some believe that cutting such rates encourages economic growth that produces more state revenue down the road.
Do you believe that the state should require at least 65% of spending on K-12 education to be funneled directly into the classrooms? In the past, skeptics have maintained that this is almost invariably the case so that such a measure is unnecessary. This year, though, supporters of the measure include even the Washington Post.
Should the state provide tax incentives to businesses that give money to private education scholarship programs? Historically, opponents have maintained that these programs drain funds and the brightest students from the public system. Nevertheless, the most recent studies and the experience of Florida seem to indicate otherwise.
In terms of state financial assistance to students, which approach would be more beneficial for our economy and young people?
Currently, Virginia voters are not allowed to specify their party affiliation when they register to vote. Would you support allowing voters to declare their party affiliation on the voter rolls? Doing so would help enable the political parties close their nomination process exclusive to party members.
Does Virginia need more gun control laws, fewer restrictions on firearms ownership, or does current laws reflect the right balance on the ownership and use of firearms?
The Virginia Retirement System pension plan for state employees has a rising level of obligations and liabilities. Should Virginia offer an alternative option to the current defined benefit pension plan? It would give new hires and current workers an additional choice of a 401K style option that most American workers enjoy and it should lower the cost to the state and shore up the fund for the future.
Do you support the exploration of natural gas off the coastal shores of Virginia? Opponents cite environmental concerns and worries that it would interfere with Navy and Air Force operations. Supporters maintain it can be done safely and the lessening of our dependence on foreign sources of energy outweighs other potential drawbacks.
Do you support the mining of uranium in Southside Virginia? A National Science Foundation study asserts doing so may pose challenges and needs to be closely regulated. Those who favor lifting the moratorium cite the very significant economic gains for an economically stressed region of the state.
Currently, Virginia State Law does not allow hunting on Sundays during the designated hunting season. This year, there is proposed legislation in both the Senate and the House of Delegates to eliminate this ban and allow hunting on Sundays. Do you support allowing hunting on Sundays?
What do you believe are the top three issues Virginia lawmakers should address during the 2012 Session?
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