This week I would like to offer a snapshot of some of the bills that I have introduced this session, and their current status. First, I am pleased and encouraged that my measure to set up a structure for diverting truck traffic on

I-81 to rail service is going forward. In my district most of us travel I-81 with regularity and we know the sometimes alarming crush of trucks that can inhibit safe speeds and clog lanes and movement. My bill, which has now been combined with other similar proposals, instructs the Virginia Department of Transportation to establish the feasibility of intermodal ports for truck to rail transfer. This process will not happen quickly, but it is a critical step in our overall transportation strategy that effectively interlaces vehicle, rail, air, and mass transit options into a comprehensive system.

Additionally, I am carrying a bill (HB 3) to increase the health credit allowance for teachers who retire with fifteen or more years of service. The measure also removes the current monthly cap. Other similar initiatives have been folded into my bill and I am optimistic the Appropriations Committee will support this long overdue change to equalize the benefits of retired teachers with retired state employees.

I introduced two measures that would have had lasting impact on Virginia by addressing sorely needed changes in our redistricting system. For far too long both the Republicans and Democrats have played power politics with citizens’ votes by structuring voting districts that assure one party dominance and assist incumbents’ re-election. This shameful practice has stripped the electoral process of real choice. When a district is drawn to encompass 55% of voters from the particular party in power, many elections are decided well before Election Day. I carried legislation (HB 9 & HJR 2) again this year to free redistricting from party politics and place it in the hands of a non partisan commission that would consider relevant criteria—i.e. equal population, compactness—never party affiliation.

One of my redistricting bills was defeated outright and the other was pushed aside for possible consideration next year. A change of this magnitude would diminish the power of the majority party and they are loath to take any action toward that end. This change will not happen without strong demand by citizens infuriated with having their voting choices usurped by power. I am hopeful that cry will continue to build in strength.

Of the more than 2,800 bills and resolutions being considered this year, most are narrow measures that have limited impact on daily lives, but each is important in some way to families, communities or groups in Virginia. Charter bills are an example of this. The laws of each town are contained in the Charter that establishes the guidelines of governance and authority. Much like the process involved in adding or deleting amendments to Virginia’s Constitution, if a town wishes to amend its Charter, it must petition the legislature for approval. This legislative review provides the checks and balances that ensure town councils are not acting inappropriately and that all actions fall within legal parameters.

This session I am carrying two little bills that make changes in the Iron Gate and Clifton Forge Charters. One will move town elections in Clifton Forge from May to November—a move many communities are making for cost and convenience reasons. The other substitutes wording in the Iron Gate Charter to reflect the position of Chief of Police.

On a personal note, I am grateful and humbled to have been named Virginia Sportsmen’s Legislator of the Year (2004-2005) by the Virginia Hunting Dog Owners’ Association. As Co-Chair of the Virginia Sportsmen’s Caucus I am deeply interested in legislative proposals that protect the practice of safe and enjoyable sporting activities. And further, as a kid raised in the country who learned the family and community rituals and assets that accompany hunting, I am very appreciative of this recognition.

As usual, I hope if you have questions or concerns about legislation mentioned in this column, or any legislative matter, you will not hesitate to

contact me at any of the following addresses. And again, I invite you to visit me in Richmond to discuss local or legislative issues of importance to you.