Virginia’s Popular Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Returns Friday

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~ School Supplies, Clothing and Footwear will be Exempt from Sales Tax ~

RICHMOND, Va. – It’s time to make your shopping list because Virginia’s popular sales tax holiday for clothing, footwear, and school and office supplies begins Friday.

For the ninth straight year, many clothing items, shoes, and school and office supplies will be sales tax-free during the first full weekend in August, which is Friday, Aug. 1, through Sunday, Aug. 3 this year.  It’s a great time to buy what you need while saving some money.

During the three-day event, most school and office supplies that cost $20 or less each, as well as clothing items and pairs of shoes priced at $100 or less each will be exempt from Virginia’s 5.3 percent state and local sales tax.  You’ll save even more in most Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads localities where the sales tax is 6 percent.  For example, if you spend $500 on qualifying items during the sales tax holiday, you’ll save $26.50 for tax exempt purchases.  You’ll save $30 in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads.

The list of tax-exempt items is the same as last year.  It includes pens, pencils, loose leaf ruled notebook paper, scissors, binders, backpacks, construction paper, sneakers, hats, shirts, dresses, jeans, bathing suits, diapers, T-shirts, and many more items.  There is no requirement that the purchases be made for school purposes.

All retailers who sell the exempt items are required to participate.

The tax-exempt items are available to anyone shopping in the state and there is no limit on the number of products you can buy tax-free, as long as each one qualifies under the guidelines.

“This is an event that benefits both consumers and businesses in Virginia,” said Gov. Terry McAuliffe.  “Many families will be sending more than one child off to school soon and this gives them an opportunity to save money on purchases that are necessary to get them ready for class.  It also carries a universal appeal because everyone who wants to buy some clothes or office supplies can benefit during the three days of the holiday.  I urge all Virginians to go out and save some money, while supporting our retail community.”

If you can’t get out to the stores but still want to shop and save, online purchases of qualifying items are also tax-exempt during the sales tax holiday.

During the sales tax holiday, retailers may also choose to save taxpayers even more money by absorbing, or paying themselves, the sales tax on items that are not eligible for exemption.  In past years, many stores have taken advantage of this opportunity and some have sold everything in their stores tax-free.

An all-inclusive list of school and office supplies, a list of exempt clothing and footwear items, guidelines for shoppers and retailers, and answers to frequently asked questions are available on the Department’s Sales Tax Holiday Information Center at www.tax.virginia.gov.

Virginia’s other two sales tax holidays are for hurricane preparedness in May, and for energy-efficient appliances and water-saving items in October.

Secretary Haymore Unveils Southern Virginia Wine Region Road Signs

~ Sign Program Promotes Virginia’s Burgeoning Wine Industry, Diverse Wine Regions and American Viticultural Areas ~

Program reflects partnerships involving Agriculture, Transportation and Tourism

CHATHAM –  Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Todd Haymore unveiled the Southern Virginia Wine Region road signs, part of a continuing Virginia wine region sign program aimed at attracting more visitors to Virginia wineries.  The unveiling was the first event of Governor Terry McAuliffe’s two-day cabinet visit to Southern Virginia.  The signs announce to travelers on selected primary and secondary roads that they have entered a particular Virginia American Viticultural Area (AVA) or wine region.  Now in its second phase, the program has located almost 40 signs in thirteen Virginia AVAs and wine regions.

            The Southern Virginia Wine Region sign was unveiled at The Homeplace Vineyard in Chatham.  Incorporated in 2004, The Homeplace Vineyard is owned and operated by the Williams Family.  Held in the same family over the last 4 generations, The Homplace was traditionally a leaf tobacco farm, planting its first grapes in 2005.  The family now cultivates 5,600 vines on almost 10 acres, raising Traminette, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin and Viognier, the official wine grape of the Commonwealth.    

Running across the middle of the Virginia’s border with North Carolina, this mostly rural and rolling landscape of farms and woodland takes visitors into the south-side Virginia version of small-town America. Southern Virginia has a warm to temperate climate with good soil for winemaking in selected areas where the topography is ideal.  Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Grigio and Vidal Blanc are the most produced grape varietals in this region of the Commonwealth.

The wine region sign program was funded by a grant from the federal Transportation Enhancement Program and matching funds from the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB).  The Office of the Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry worked closely with Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to design the signs and select locations that fit within the rules of the program and were best situated to promote the wine regions.  The Virginia Wine Board will assist with any maintenance should a sign be damaged or destroyed. 

“I want to thank Governor McAuliffe, Transportation Secretary Aubrey Layne, CTB, VDOT, and the Virginia Wine Board for their assistance in making these wine region signs a reality,” said Secretary Haymore.  “The continued growth of Virginia’s wine industry, one of the fastest growing sectors of Virginia agriculture, is a priority for Governor McAuliffe and cross secretariat cooperation is key to the Governor’s overall economic development and jobs creation agenda.  This partnership, along with our on-going work with the Virginia Tourism Corporation, will help spur more growth and opportunities at wineries and their suppliers in rural areas throughout Virginia.”

“The Transportation Secretariat partners with the Secretariat of Agriculture and Forestry on everything from road signage, to weight restrictions, to the safe use of farm vehicles on Virginia roads,” said Virginia Secretary of Transportation Aubrey Layne. “Our secondary roads are vital to those who work the land. Continuing to maintain the positive partnership between our two secretariats is a huge benefit to the farmer as well as the consumer.”

Raising the profile of Virginia wines and wine tourism, along with the production of top quality wines, are key components in the recent strong growth of the Virginia wine industry.  Continuing to promote Virginia wines at the Virginia Executive Mansion and throughout Virginia, on other domestic business recruitment visits, and on upcoming international trade and marketing missions, Governor McAuliffe is making the continued growth and success of the Virginia wine industry a priority in his administration. 

Virginia is home to more than 250 wineries and is fifth in the nation for wine grape production.  A 2012 economic impact study shows that Virginia's wine industry contributes almost three-quarters of a billion dollars - or $747 million - annually to Virginia's economy.  Virginia wineries and vineyards support 4,800 jobs that provide $156 million total in wages. 

Wine travel in Virginia has gained many recent accolades, including being named one of the ten best wine travel destinations in the world for 2012 by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.  In 2010, approximately 1.6 million people visited Virginia wineries.  Tourism is an instant revenue generator for Virginia.  In 2010, tourism generated $19 billion in revenue, supported 204,000 jobs and provided $1.2 billion in state and local taxes.

Governor McAuliffe Statement on Ruling in Bostic v. Rainey Case

English: Protesters for gay marriage (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Governor Terry McAuliffe released the following statement in response to the Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling in Bostic v. Rainey striking down Virginia’s ban on gay marriage:

“I am overjoyed by the news that, as a result of today’s ruling, Virginia will become a state where two people who love each other can get married regardless of their sexual orientation. This is a historic ruling for our Commonwealth, and its effect will affirm once again that Virginia is a state that is open and welcoming to all.

“I want to thank Attorney General Mark Herring for his leadership in this case, and all of the men and women who fought for years to make this day a reality. Progress does not always come as quickly as we hope it will, but today is yet another example of how justice, equality and the people who fight for those values will always persevere in the end.” 

Our Notes:  If you have never read a history book that explains how great civilizations were torn down and destroyed, you do not have to, it's being played out right in front of your eyes right now.

Governor McAuliffe Announces Administration Appointments

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RICHMOND – Governor Terry McAuliffe announced additional appointments to his administration. The appointees will join McAuliffe’s administration focused on finding common ground with members of both parties on issues that will grow Virginia’s economy and create more jobs across the Commonwealth.

Secretariat of Finance

R. Neil Miller, Deputy Secretary of Finance

Neil Miller most recently worked as Virginia Commonwealth University’s budget director.  Prior to his time at VCU, he served as Deputy Secretary of Finance in the administration of Governor McDonnell.  Before moving to Richmond from Alexandria, he practiced with the law firm of DLA Piper LLP (US) in Washington D.C. focusing on corporate finance and securities law and served as an Attorney-Advisor in the Division of Corporation Finance at the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission. Neil holds a Bachelor of Science (BSBA) degree in Finance from the University of Florida, a Juris Doctor (JD) from Villanova University School of Law and a Master of Laws (LLM) in Securities and Financial Regulation from the Georgetown University Law Center. 

Secretariat of the Commonwealth

Board Appointments

Advisory Board on Respiratory Care

• Hollee Freeman, PhD of Richmond, Executive Director, MathScience Innovation Center

Auctioneers Board

• William McGuire Farmer of Salem, General Manager, Farmer Auctions
• Michael S. Phillips of Richmond, Program Coordinator, Virginia Clean Cities and Project Manager for the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy
• Linda W. Terry, AARE, CAI, GRI of Richmond, Broker/Auctioneer/Partner, Tranzon FOX

Board of Forestry

• D. Keith Drohan of Ruther Glen, Manager-Market Origination, Dominion Generation
• James Harder of Blacksburg, PhD Candidate, Center for Public Administration and Policy, Virginia Tech
• J. Kenneth Morgan, Jr.* of Clarksville, Chairman of the Board, Morgan Lumber Company, Inc., President, Sunrise Shavings, LLC and Vice President, Morgan Lumber Sales, LLC

Board of Nursing

• Joana C. Garcia,  LCDR, United States Navy (Ret.) of Fairfax Station

• Marie F. Gerardo, MS, RN, ANP-BC of Midlothian, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Virginia Commonwealth University/MCV, House Calls/Transitional Care Manager

• Jean Ellis Holmes* of Prince George, Retired Higher Ed Administrator

• Jennifer Marie Phelps, LPNIII/QMHPA of Lynchburg, PACT Nurse, HORIZON Behavioral Health / Central Virginia Community Services

• Leslie S. Rubio of Richmond, Comptroller, Premier Appraisal Group, Inc.

Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

• Betty Jo Foster, EdD* of Ringgold, Adjunct Professor, Danville Community College

• Chris A. Lumsden, MHA, FACHE of South Boston, President, Halifax Regional Health System

The Library Board

• The Honorable Jon Bowerbank* of Rosedale, Chairman, Russell County Board of Supervisors, President / CEO / Owner at EMATS, Inc.

• Kristin Cabral, JD of McLean, Community Leader

• M. David Skiles* of Centreville, Government Relations Advisor & Director of Northern Virginia Client Services, The Vectre Corporation

Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission

• Rebecca Coleman of Gate City, Consultant, Regional Adult Educational Program, Lee, Scott, Wise and Norton City Public Schools and former Chief of Staff, Congressman Rick Boucher
• Missy Neff Gould of Danville, Market Director Community & Government Relations, LifePoint Hospitals
• The Honorable Franklin D. Harris of Amelia, Member, Amelia County Board of Supervisors
• The Honorable Edward Owens of South Boston, Mayor, Town of South Boston and Owner, Edward Owens Agency

Treasury Board

• Douglas Densmore of Roanoke, Attorney, The Law Firm of CowanPerry P.C.
• William W. Harrison, Jr.* of Virginia Beach, Partner, Williams Mullen
• Lou Mejia of Alexandria, Partner, Perkins Coie LLP

Virginia Apprenticeship Council

• Robert B. Benson of King George, Superintendent, King George County Schools

Virginia Board for Asbestos, Lead and Home Inspectors

• Colleen Becker, CIH, CSP* of Williamsburg, Certified Industrial Hygienist, Certified Safety Professional and General Manager, Marine Chemist Service, Inc.

Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children – Virginia Compact Commissioner

• Steven R. Staples, Ed.D. of Williamsburg, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Virginia Department of Education

*Denotes reappointments

Governor McAuliffe Congratulates Nine Virginia Counties

Map of USA with Virginia highlighted (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

~ Successfully using technology to serve citizens garners national awards~

RICHMOND - Governor Terry McAuliffe today congratulated nine Virginia counties that received top rankings in the 2014 Digital Counties Survey.

“These counties were recognized from among hundreds of counties that participated in the survey for successfully using technology for citizen engagement, policy, data and operations,” said Governor McAuliffe. “Technology presents significant opportunities for producing more efficient and effective services to citizens. It strengthens the Commonwealth and improves our prospects for economic development. I commend these local governments for their use of technology and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”

In the “Up to 150,000 population category,” Roanoke County received first-place honors for “projects around geographic information systems (GIS), radio and governance. The county’s GIS portal showcases mapping services spanning from property tax applications to voting maps and three-dimensional views of the land.”

Winners also included:

·       Up to 150,000 population category: Albemarle, second; Gloucester, sixth; Franklin, seventh; and Montgomery, 10^th. Virginia counties took half of the top honors in this category.

·       150,000-249,999 population: Arlington County, fourth place

·       250,000-499,999 population: Loudoun County, second place; and, Chesterfield County, seventh place

·       500,000 or more population: Fairfax County, third place

The survey is conducted by the Center for Digital Government in partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo). Awards were announced this week at the 79^th annual NACoconference in New Orleans. 

Governor McAuliffe Announces 250 New Jobs for Grayson County

Map of Virginia highlighting Grayson County (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

~ Core Health & Fitness LLC to invest $2 million in commercial fitness products manufacturing operation~ 

RICHMOND - Governor Terry McAuliffe announced that Core Health & Fitness LLC, a leader in developing and marketing advanced strength and cardio equipment for the fitness industry, will invest $2 million to expand the former Med-Fit operation in Grayson County. The facility has manufactured Nautilus commercial products for more than 34 years. Virginia successfully competed against California and China for the project, which will create 250 new jobs.

Speaking about the announcement, Governor McAuliffe said, “The addition of Core Health & Fitness LLC to Grayson County’s corporate roster is tremendous for a region that has suffered from recent employment loss. With this investment, the company will build on the existing product line and revitalize an operation that has manufactured Nautilus commercial products for more than three decades, creating 250 new, valuable jobs. Grayson County’s history in producing commercial fitness, wellness and rehabilitation products makes it a great fit for Core Health & Fitness, and we are confident that this project will be of great economic benefit to Southwest Virginia.”

“We welcome Core Health & Fitness to Grayson County and to Virginia,” said Maurice Jones, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “Today’s announcement of 250 jobs and a new corporate tenant for the former Med-Fit facility comes at a fortuitous time for a region that continues its economic rebound. We remain ready to do what we can to help facilitate the company’s success in Grayson County.”

Core Health & Fitness LLC is a leader in developing and marketing advanced strength and cardio equipment for the fitness industry. Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, the company markets and distributes the legendary StairMaster StepMill,^® StairMaster StairCimber^®, Schwinn^® indoor cycling bikes, Star Trac^® strength and cardio products and Spinner^® bikes worldwide. 

“We are excited to be able to acquire the Nautilus commercial licensing rights and to be able to manufacture world-renowned strength products in Independence, Virginia,” said Dustin Grosz, Core Health & Fitness President and Chief Operating Officer. “The skilled workforce has consistently built some of the best, if not the best, strength fitness equipment in the world. This campus will become our major, world-wide strength manufacturing hub. We are extremely pleased with the amount of support we have received from the Town of Independence, Grayson County and State of Virginia.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked closely with Grayson County and Virginia’s aCorridor to secure the project for the Commonwealth. Governor McAuliffe approved a $350,000 grant from the Governor’s Opportunity Fund to assist Grayson County with the project. The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission approved $1.045 million in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds for the project. Additional funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“We are elated that a world-class company such as Core Health & Fitness has chosen to carry on the storied tradition of Nautilus, and we are extremely honored to welcome them into our business community,” said John K. Brewer, Chairman, Grayson County Board of Supervisors. “This project means so much to Grayson County, and our community will forever be grateful for all the support and assistance received from Governor McAuliffe, Secretary Jones, Senator Carrico, Delegate O’Quinn, the Virginia Tobacco Commission, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and Virginia’s aCorridor that made this deal possible.” 

"I am excited about today's announcement by Core Health & Fitness,” said Senator Bill Carrico, a member of the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission and Senate District Representative. “It is an answer to many prayers by the Grayson County families affected by recent job losses and income reductions. I would like to congratulate all the county leaders who worked tirelessly to make this investment a reality.  Since day one of the Med-Fit job losses, Grayson County leaders started the process of finding a solution, and today their efforts have paid off in the form of 250 quality jobs and $2 million in new capital investments. On behalf of the Virginia Tobacco Commission, we are so pleased to have played a $1 million role in this success story, which will provide much-needed opportunities to the great citizens of Grayson County for years to come."

Governor McAuliffe Statement on Conflicting Federal Rulings on the Affordable Care Act

Seal of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Governor Terry McAuliffe released the following statement in response to the conflicting rulings of two federal courts on the Affordable Care Act:

“Conflicting court rulings on health care tax credits should not discourage Virginia families from seeking affordable health insurance through the federal marketplace. The United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Richmond affirmed the validity of those incentives, and Virginians can be confident that low-cost health insurance will be available to those who participate in this fall’s open enrollment and meet eligibility criteria.

“I am disappointed in the decision by a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. I hope that an appeal to the full court will provide clarity and reassurance to all Americans, regardless of where they live, that they and their families will have access to preventive care and protection from burdensome medical bills.

“During the first open enrollment, 216,000 Virginians purchased insurance through the federal insurance exchange. I believe many more will participate during this fall’s enrollment, having learned from neighbors, co-workers and family members that they, too, can have affordable health insurance. Expanding access to affordable health care is a key component of building a stronger Virginia economy, and I will continue to work toward that goal.

Leaders Applaud McAuliffe for Executive Order Expanding Opportunity for Small, Women, and Minority Owned Businesses

McAuliffe (Photo credit: mou-ikkai)

Governor McAuliffe signed Executive Order 20: Advancing Equity for Small, Women, and Minority Owned Businesses (SWaM), which expands contracting opportunities for small businesses in the Commonwealth. The executive order sets the highest contracting goal in Virginia history of state expenditures to SWaM-certified businesses at 42%. It also creates a new “micro business” designation for small businesses with no more than 25 employees and no more than $3 million in revenue. Currently, over 80% of SWaM certified companies fall under this micro business category but often have to compete with companies over ten times their size for contracting opportunities.

This executive order is designed to ensure a more transparent, equitable, and inclusive procurement process for Virginia’s small, women, and minority-owned businesses, and has received praise from leaders across the Commonwealth:

Michael Zajur, President and CEO of the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce:

“The Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce welcomes Governor McAuliffe's plans to encourage and maximize the participation of small, women, and minority owned businesses in state procurement. Not only will our chamber members benefit from increased contracting opportunities, but Virginia itself will benefit from the diversification of its economy through greater minority participation.”

Senator Don  McEachin, Henrico:

“I want to take this opportunity to thank Governor McAuliffe for his leadership in issuing this executive order. Today’s order will enable women and minority small business owners to compete on a level playing field. It will help ensure that small businesses are chosen for the quality of their work, and it will help give women and minority owners a fair shot at success.

I have repeatedly introduced a bill to address unfair contracting disparities, but have not been able to get it passed. Now, thanks to Governor McAuliffe, at least for the next three-and-a-half years, the problem is finally being fairly addressed.”

Senator Louise Lucas, Portsmouth:

“Nearly two decades ago, I introduced a resolution (SJ12) to ease the process of state procurement for minority owned businesses. Today, I am proud to say that Governor McAuliffe has taken executive action to ensure an equitable and inclusive procurement process. I am glad to have a governor who recognizes the achievements of all hard working Virginians.”

Delegate Ron Villanueva, Virginia Beach:

“Governor McAuliffe’s small, women, and minority owned business Executive Order was designed to remove unnecessary barriers and promote equity in the procurement process. By taking the initiative to ensure equality, the Governor is providing exactly the kind of leadership that Virginia needs.”

Delegate Rosalyn Dance, Petersburg:

“I am delighted with the leadership our Governor is showing today through his bold new initiatives that directly address the major obstacles and impediments that have deterred and at times prevented small women and minority businesses (SWAM) from being able to actively and successfully do business with state and local governments. This is in alignment with the legislation I have introduced this year and for the last several years along with my colleagues in the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus.”

Senator Mamie Locke, Hampton:

“The Virginia Legislative Black Caucus is pleased that Governor McAuliffe is issuing an Executive Order that focuses on small, women, and minority owned businesses.   This is a necessary step to ensure fairness, transparency, and equity for these businesses that are often left out of the procurement process.   I am especially excited about the opportunities for minority owned businesses for which the Caucus has been a strong voice and advocate.”

Delegate Charniele Herring, Alexandria:

"I am proud to stand with Governor McAuliffe today as he announces a step forward for small business – and for the fair inclusion of women and minorities in our Commonwealth's procurement process. We have been working toward more accountability and transparency for years – and this is positive action in the direction toward inclusiveness, which can only translate to strengthening our economy overall."

Delegate Jennifer McClellan, Richmond City:

“Today, I commend Governor McAuliffe for ensuring that our Commonwealth continues to take the lead on being the friendliest state in which to do business. It is important that we encourage SWaM businesses to come and invest their time and resources in Virginia. We must continue to level the playing field and be the standard to which other states craft their own compliance measures.”

Delegate Michael Futrell, Prince William:

“The value of this executive order cannot go understated, and I thank Governor McAuliffe for allowing SWaM businesses out there to have a fair chance at succeeding. The Governor’s vast knowledge in the business arena gives Virginia the advantage in continuing to be the friendliest state in which to do business. This administration’s continuous efforts to level the playing field for women and minorities speak to the changing landscape here in the Commonwealth.”

Delegate Matthew James, Portsmouth:

“When Governor McAuliffe signed the small, women, and minority owned business executive order, he reminded us once again of his commitment to equality. This Executive Order sets a high bar for compliance, and failure to meet the SWaM plan requirements will be detrimental to the contractor’s future projects. The Governor is taking a stand and demanding inclusiveness, and I applaud him for that.”

Delegate Alfonso Lopez, Arlington:

"Virginians have always been pioneers when it comes to creating an environment that attracts businesses to generate new jobs and grow our economy. With the signing of today’s executive order, Governor Terry McAuliffe undeniably sets the Commonwealth apart in being one of the most marketable places for women and minority owned businesses in the country. Creating positive steps forward in compliance regulations and allowing businesses to compete on a level playing field is something we must always promote and excel at here in Virginia. I applaud Governor McAuliffe for taking such a significant and important step to guarantee that all of our communities win."  

Delegate Delores McQuinn, Richmond City:

“I applaud Governor McAuliffe for timely addressing the issue of SWAM businesses receiving contracts through the state's procurement process. This is an issue on which I have tirelessly worked for several years with my colleagues in the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus. We are hopeful that the Governor's Executive order will eliminate the disparity minority and women owned businesses have faced for years in doing business with the Commonwealth.”

Senator Kenny Alexander, Norfolk:

“Governor McAuliffe's commitment to improving Virginia’s business climate includes providing small, women and minority owned business with the needed resources for success.  We should all applaud his inclusive approach.  These enterprises are the future of Virginia’s economy and their success is critical to long term job growth."

Delegate Lionel Spurill, Chesapeake:

“Today, Governor McAuliffe announced his plan to maximize the participation of small, women, and minority owned businesses in state procurement. This deliberate step towards creating an inclusive process is indicative of his devotion to equality for all Virginians.”

Governor McAuliffe Statement on Virginia Opportunity Educational Institution Ruling

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Governor Terry McAuliffe released the following statement regarding the Norfolk Circuit Court’s ruling of the Virginia Opportunity Educational Institution (OEI) as unconstitutional:

“After carefully evaluating the Norfolk Circuit Court’s ruling, my administration has decided not to appeal the court’s decision. Two attorneys general and our own analysis support the Circuit Court’s reasoning on the legal issues at stake. The Constitution of Virginia clearly gives the primary responsibility for educating Virginia children to local school boards across the Commonwealth, while assigning the task of overseeing those efforts to the Virginia Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction.

“Unfortunately, the statute that established the OEI altered these relationships in significant and unconstitutional ways. There is no question that we must work together to ensure that every single Virginia student has access to a world class education in a public school, and I am confident there is a better way forward. I have asked Secretary of Education Anne Holton to preside over the coalition of government, nonprofit and private sector leaders who have a stake in improving Virginia’s underperforming schools so that we can better prepare all of our students to compete in a global economy.

“Despite our decision, I am grateful to the proponents of OEI for the constructive debate this legislation has initiated. It has helped us all focus on the importance of closing the achievement gap and paving the way for success and achievement in and out of the classroom. We can, we must, and we will do better for Virginia’s students.”