Showing posts with label Virginians. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Virginians. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Virginia Reaches Temporary Agreement to Allow Safe, Regulated Operation of Uber and Lyft

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
~ Transportation network companies to come into compliance with Virginia law ~

RICHMOND (August 06, 2014) – Governor Terry McAuliffe and Attorney General Mark R. Herring announced today that the Commonwealth of Virginia has reached an agreement with transportation network companies Uber and Lyft that will help ensure the safety of passengers, bring the companies into compliance with Virginia law, provide transparency into their operations, and promote a level playing field for transportation providers. This temporary legal framework, one of the first of its kind in the nation, is the result of extensive discussions between the companies, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the McAuliffe administration, and Attorney General Herring's office following the issuance of "cease and desist" letters to the companies on June 5.

“In order for Virginia to remain economically competitive, it is important that we welcome innovative companies like Uber and Lyft and provide them with the resources they need to safely and effectively operate in the Commonwealth,” said Governor McAuliffe. “Technology – specifically related to smart phones – continues to advance at a rapid pace, and I am pleased that we were able to work together to find a swift solution that will provide Virginia’s workers, students, and families with more transportation options.”

“I knew there had to be a better way to ensure the safety of Virginia passengers," said Attorney General Herring. "These companies offer services that Virginians want, but it just wasn't acceptable for them to operate without complying with regulations or other measures to help ensure the safety of passengers and motorists. I'm proud that we were able to get folks back to the table and get them talking again, and now we've shown that Virginia can be responsive to innovative businesses while promoting public safety and the rule of law. Because of this cooperation, Virginians are going to have more transportation options that are safer, more transparent, and appropriately regulated.  I hope other states will look to Virginia as a model for how to safely integrate the so-called sharing economy."

"Thanks to the leadership of Governor McAuliffe and Attorney General Herring for putting consumers first and embracing innovation, choice and opportunity," said Justin Kintz, public policy, Uber Technologies, Inc. "We look forward to continuing to work together to create a permanent home for ridesharing, providing residents and visitors with safe, reliable transportation options.”

"Today's agreement allows Lyft to continue providing safe rides and economic opportunity to Virginians as we work with state leaders to secure a permanent future for ridesharing, said Dave Estrada, VP of Government Relations for Lyft. "Virginia has led the way in embracing innovative industries and we applaud Governor McAuliffe and Attorney General Herring for their thoughtful work to reach an agreement that maintains the highest level of public safety while expanding consumer choice. In addition to our involvement in DMV's ongoing study on Transportation Network Companies, we look forward to helping craft new rules for peer-to-peer transportation that increase access to safe, affordable and convenient rides for all Virginia residents."

The Department of Motor Vehicles has informed Uber and Lyft that their applications for transportation broker's licenses and temporary operating authority have been granted, effective immediately, they meet an extensive set of regulations to promote passenger safety, have appropriate insurance, and comply with Virginia law. If at any point either company fails to comply with these terms, DMV can revoke the temporary operating authority.

These conditions include:

·       Extensive background checks of drivers, with immediate disqualifiers including convictions for any felony, fraud, sexual offenses, or violent crimes, or registration as a sex offender.
·       A review of driving history, with disqualification for drivers convicted of three or more moving violations in the last three years, DUI, underage drinking, refusal to submit to a breathalyzer, hit and run, or eluding law-enforcement, or a revocation of a driver's license.
·       Zero tolerance for the use of drugs or alcohol by any drivers, and a suspension pending investigation of any driver accused of violating the zero tolerance policy.
·       Only employing drivers who are properly licensed and over 21, and vehicles that carry a maximum of seven passengers and are properly registered and inspected for safety and emissions, where applicable.
·       Rigorous insurance requirements, including requiring drivers to maintain automobile liability insurance, maintaining on behalf of all drivers an additional $1,000,000 of coverage from the moment a driver accepts a trip request until the passenger leaves the vehicle, and liability insurance for drivers who are logged onto the companies' software but not providing services.
·       Maintaining documentation for each driver of his or her background check, sex offender registry check, driving record, proof of insurance, valid driver's license, Social Security number, vehicle registration, and proof of vehicle safety inspection. Documentation must be available to DMV on demand to investigate any complaints, and must be available for periodic audits to ensure compliance.
·       Paying any previously assessed civil penalties for non-compliance and dropping any appeals, which both companies have already done.
·       Features to help customers identify their driver and vehicle, including from the outside of the vehicle.
·       Drivers notifying the companies of any change in their license status, vehicle registration, insurance, or any arrest for a crime that would disqualify them from being a driver.
·       Rate transparency and documentation.
·       Companies advising drivers of their need to comply with applicable tax laws.
·       Only accepting rides booked through the companies’ mobile device apps, not street hails.
·       Companies maintaining a Virginia transportation broker's license.
Virginia DMV is currently leading a study at the request of the General Assembly to developing a long-term legislative solution that addresses services provided by Uber, Lyft, and similar companies, while also ensuring a level playing field for taxicabs and all other passenger transportation services. The study is scheduled to be completed in time for the 2015 legislative session. This temporary authority agreement can serve as a foundation for potential legislation and will also provide valuable data on the operations of these companies as legislation is crafted.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Governor McAuliffe Marks 100 Days of His Administration, Launches 100Days.Virginia.gov

Terry McAuliffe - Caricature
Terry McAuliffe - Caricature (Photo credit: DonkeyHotey)
Governor McAuliffe today marked his administration’s hundredth day and launched100Days.Virginia.gov, a website highlighting key accomplishments his administration has made so far in critical areas such as economic development, transportation, and education.

“Since my first day in office, I, along with members of my administration, have worked hard to find mainstream, common-sense solutions to problems and create a stronger and more economically competitive Commonwealth,” stated Governor McAuliffe.  “We have already made significant progress in investing our transportation dollars wisely, creating more jobs in every region of the Commonwealth, and preparing our workforce for a 21st Century economy. I am proud of the accomplishments my administration has made, and I am confident that we will continue to put people above politics to build a stronger economic foundation for the next generation of Virginians.”

For an overview on the progress made during the McAuliffe Administration’s first 100 days in office, visit 100Days.Virginia.gov or Governor McAuliffe's 100 Days Report.
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Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Governor McAuliffe’s Changes to Restoration of Rights Policy Receives Resounding Support

Terry McAuliffe - Caricature
Terry McAuliffe - Caricature (Photo credit: DonkeyHotey)
Governor McAuliffe today announced amendments to Virginia’s restoration of rights policy, which increased transparency in the process and will enable more Virginians to have their rights restored sooner. The announcement of the amended policy, as well as the announcement that Governor McAuliffe has already restored the rights of 800 Virginians in less than 100 days in office, received praise from leaders across the Commonwealth.

Senator Henry Marsh, Richmond:

“Governor McAuliffe’s changes to the restoration of rights policy is the right thing to do. With these changes, more Virginians will be able to participate in the civic process and vote more easily, and Virginians will more easily be able to understand the restoration of rights process. I look forward to the continued improvements Governor McAuliffe will make on restoring more voting rights to Virginians who have paid their debts to society. This is a great step forward.”


“I commend Governor McAuliffe for his work ensuring that the restoration of rights process continues to become more transparent and efficient. A person who has served their time and paid their debt to society should have their civil rights restored."

Delegate Jennifer McClellan, Richmond:

“The changes Governor McAuliffe has made in the restoration of rights process were much needed and are commendable actions by our governor. Virginia is stronger when it is more open and transparent, and this announcement is another step in the right direction. I look forward to seeing additional progress the Governor and his team will make in the restoration of rights process, and ensuring more of our citizens who have done their time and paid their debt to society can re-enter into the civic process.”
Delegate Lionell Spruill, Chesapeake:
“Governor McAuliffe continues to do the right thing by safeguarding the civil rights of Virginians’ through the changes made to the restoration of rights policy. This enables individuals that have repaid their debts to return to society and become contributing members once again. This administration has demonstrated the importance of being transparent and responsive in everything that can be done for its citizens.” 
Mayor Dwight Jones, Richmond:

“Virginians who do their time and have paid their debt to society should absolutely be able to return to the civic process and vote. I applaud Governor McAuliffe for the progress his administration has made in restoring rights so far, and commend him on making significant changes to the process in which Virginians can have their right to vote and contribute to society restored. The increased transparency and streamlined process for more non-violent offenders shows that Virginia is removing barriers to those who seek to be contributing members to our communities."
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Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Governor McAuliffe Announces Successful Launch of DMV/VDH Vital Records Partnership

Birth certificate (actually, excerpt from the ...
Birth certificate (actually, excerpt from the protocol of baptised) of Nikola Tesla. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
People Born in Virginia Will Now Have More Access to Birth Certificates Than Ever Before

RICHMOND – Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced the successful launch of the partnership of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Division of Vital Records to provide increased access to Virginia birth certificates. As of March 1, 2014, copies of Virginia birth certificates are available statewide at all 75 DMV customer service centers and five mobile offices.

Already, approximately 5,000 Virginians have requested birth certificates at DMV locations. Most of these customers are able to leave DMV with copies of their birth certificates printed and in hand.    
By increasing access to these vital records, the DMV and VDH are making life a little easier for Virginians,” said Governor McAuliffe. “That is an example of what government should do for its citizens. Efficiency, innovation and good service are and will continue to be cornerstones of my administration.”

The process for obtaining vital records through DMV is the same as doing so directly through the Division of Vital Records. Customers complete an application, submit the required documentation, and pay a fee to the agency. The fee for a birth certificate at DMV is $14.

“We are excited to partner with VDH to offer this option to Virginians,” said DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb. “DMV is dedicated to providing security, integrity and convenience in delivering this important service.”   

The Division of Vital Records has long been a trusted steward of Virginia records,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Marissa Levine. “Together with our partners at DMV, we look forward to continuing that tradition while offering new avenues to access important documents.” 

The DMV/VDH partnership was authorized by legislation (SB 1039, Newman) passed by the General Assembly in 2013. In addition to birth certificates, the legislation provides that DMV will begin issuing copies of death, marriage and divorce records on January 1, 2015. All original records will continue to be stored securely at the Vital Records office.
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Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Governor McAuliffe Announces Environmental Excellence Award Winners

Official seal of City of Newport News
Official seal of City of Newport News (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
RICHMOND, VA. – Governor Terry McAuliffe has announced the winners of the 2014 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards, which were presented at the Environment Virginia Symposium at Virginia Military Institute in Lexington. 

The awards recognize significant environmental contributions in two categories: sustainability and land conservation. They are given to businesses and industrial facilities, not-for-profit organizations and government agencies.

“These award winners demonstrate a clear commitment to improving the environment for the benefit of all Virginians,” Governor McAuliffe said. “This recognition is well-deserved, and I look forward to ongoing improvements from these winners and other environmental and conservation leaders.” 

The Gold Medal winners are:

·       City of Newport News for its comprehensive sustainability program, a product of citizen input and local government leadership, which maps out a long-term strategic approach to becoming a greener community.
·       Elizabeth River Project for its Dominion Virginia Power Learning Barge, a mobile environmental education center known as the world’s first floating wetlands classroom and America’s “Greenest Vessel” designed to offer a closer look at the challenges facing the watershed.
·       Luck Companies for their commitment to sustainability across all business units, resulting in significant improvements in water conservation, land preservation, waste generation and energy savings.
·       Locust Grove Farm Conservation Easement, which protects more than 16,500 linear feet of forested and vegetated buffers on the Mattaponi River in King and Queen County on property that has been owned by the same family for about 350 years.

Award winners were chosen based on criteria including environmental benefit, stakeholder involvement, public outreach, transferability and innovativeness.

The awards are sponsored by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Additional information on the Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards is available on the DEQ website at:

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Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on Retirement of Delegate Onzlee Ware

English: Governor of Virginia at CPAC in .
English: Governor of Virginia at CPAC in . (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement this afternoon following the news that Delegate Onzlee Ware (D-Roanoke) will retire from office.

“Over the past ten years, I’ve gotten to know Onzlee Ware very well. I know him as someone who always puts Virginia first. And I know him as a leader who will always tell you, directly and without nuance, just where he stands.

“Those two traits were on full display when Onzlee took the floor of the House of Delegates during the final debate on this year’s historic transportation bill. Onzlee rose to let the body know why he, a Democratic representative from Roanoke, was voting for this measure. He made it clear he didn’t love the bill. That’s the nature of any compromise. But he said he was voting for the legislation because, ‘I always tell people it’s easy to do nothing, because you don’t have to think, just say no.’ And he noted, ‘I intend on voting on this bill because in my opinion, it’s the right thing to do for all Virginians.’ And he did the same thing when he also took to the floor to support the creation of the Opportunity Educational Institution that will help turnaround failing schools in our Commonwealth. Onzlee always put policy ahead of party; he put results ahead of rhetoric. He strove to do the right thing for all Virginians. We’re all better for it.

“Onzlee has always sought out common ground in the service of our Commonwealth, and now our Commonwealth will greatly miss his service to our people. I know that personal reasons have made this decision necessary, and Maureen and I extend our thoughts and best wishes to Onzlee, his mother, and their family. I hope his involvement in the life of our Commonwealth will extend far beyond this day. Virginia needs more individuals like Onzlee Ware in public service.”
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Saturday, November 16, 2013

Governor McDonnell Encourages Virginians to Donate to Philippines Recovery Effort

English: Governor of Virginia at CPAC in .
English: Governor of Virginia at CPAC in . (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell today urged Virginians to join in the effort to help the people of the Philippines as they recover from devastating Typhoon Haiyan. The storm has left thousands dead, and the Philippine government has reported that some 2 million residents are now in need of aid.

Speaking about the storm and its aftermath, Governor McDonnell noted, “The people of the Philippines need our help in the wake of this horrific typhoon. As we watch the saddening news reports come in, I know many are wondering how to help the millions who are suffering. Today I’m encouraging my fellow Virginians to donate funds to the Philippine Red Cross, the American Red Cross, or UNICEF so those three organizations can continue providing the food, medicine, and relief that is so desperately needed in the region. Virginia is home to a large Filipino-American population that has done so much to contribute to the prosperity and greatness of our Commonwealth. Now, the people of the Philippines need our help as they recover from deadly and tragic Typhoon Haiyan. Americans are a giving and caring people. We are at our best when times are at their worst. Now, I hope Virginians will once again show their generosity and empathy and join in this relief effort. Our prayers and thoughts continue to be with our friends in the Philippines.”

There are many aid organizations working in storm-recovery efforts. Three of the biggest are the Philippine Red Cross, the American Red Cross, and UNICEF. Virginians can donate to the organizations by visiting their web sites, which are listed below.

Philippine Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org.ph/donate


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