Delegate Peace ranked as one of the top three House members on 2014 Business Legislative Report Card

-- VA Free 2014 General Assembly Report Card Released --

-- Peace Rated as Consistent Job Creating and Economic Development Legislator --

Central VA – VA Free recently released its 2014 General Assembly report card.  Delegate Christopher K. Peace(R-Hanover) was pleased to receive a score of 92.4 percent, ranked 3rd amongst his House colleagues on the legislative report which informs citizens on key business related votes taken by the General Assembly during the 2014 session.  Virginia FREE compiles annual voting records of all General Assembly members on important legislation affecting business and industry.

"This rating reflects my belief that low taxes create opportunities for job creation and economic growth. We need a smaller government for a stronger economy, but I strongly believe that there is much more work to be done to make this vision a reality. To improve our community’s quality of life and sustain Virginia’s economic recovery, government must lower the burden on taxpayers and guarantee individual liberty. For these reasons, I am pleased with this positive score,” commented Del. Peace.

One of the bills considered in the VA Free evaluation was Delegate Peace’s House Bill 887, a measure to pursue modeling for a Governor's School for Career and Technical Education (CTE).  CTE training provides good paying jobs and strengthens workforce training opportunities in fields such as HVAC, culinary arts, plumbing, electrical, and finance.

“I applaud the leadership of Hanover Superintendent Dr. Jamelle Wilson and other school divisions for their work to implement my successful legislation.  While some students will attend Virginia's universities or community colleges, there are other students who would benefit from a workforce development or career readiness program that provides technical training for jobs in high paying manufacturing fields.  I am delighted that VA Free also recognizes and prioritizes this need for increased workforce readiness training.”

According to their website, Virginia Foundation for Research and Economic Education (VA Free) is an independent association committed to protecting and strengthening Virginia's prosperous business environment through the political process.  Founded in 1988, VA FREE provides a wealth of objective, non-partisan information to business.  VA FREE information, services and programs foster a business community prepared to take the lead in electing legislators who advance free enterprise and responsible, pro-business government.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to represent the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates.  The District includes parts of Hanover, King William, and all of New Kent County. 

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Delegate Chris Peace Appointed to the Virginia Criminal Justice Services Board

-- Relate Peace legislation will reform and streamline funding for Sexual and Domestic Violence Prevention Agencies --

Central Virginia - Speaker of the House William J. Howell recently appointed Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) to the Virginia Criminal Justice Services Board (CJSB).  The CJSB is the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) policy board, and represents all aspects of the criminal justice system on both state and local levels of government, as well as representatives of the private security industry, the public-at-large and members of the General Assembly.

The Board is the approving authority for Department regulations as well as for grant applications the Department awards to localities, state agencies and private non-profit organizations, such as the Hanover Safe Place.

Delegate Peace, speaking of his appointment, stated "I am honored to be appointed to this Board which connects all aspects of our criminal justice system.  Virginia must remain a safe place to live, work and raise a family. To that end, the Department of Criminal Justice Services reviews opportunities to collaborate with others to maintain and enhance public safety in our communities."

Peace continued, "Of special importance to me is the Victim/Witness Grant Review Subcommittee, which reviews grant applications for victim/witness programs, sexual assault programs, rural domestic violence programs, projects to improve the investigation and prosecution of cases of violence against women, and or services for victims of these crimes and makes recommendations to the CJSB. In a time when our communities are witnessing an increase in domestic homicides it has never been more critical to see that important funds go to the places of greatest need."

"Having been the sponsor of successful legislation during the 2014 session which provides additional compensation for mental health services for survivors, reasonable moving expenses for domestic violence victims and a process to advance efforts to streamline sexual and domestic violence victim service grants, I am delighted to be asked to serve on the CJSB."

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to represent the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates.  The District includes parts of Hanover, King William, and all of New Kent County.

Transportation Budget Chairman Applauds Upcoming Investment in King William County

~ King William Delegate Christopher K. Peace applauds VDOT rehabilitation of Route 30 in King William ~

Central Virginia- Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover), chairman of the House Appropriations subcommittee on Transportation, applauds new investments in transportation projects by Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in King William.  VDOT will begin major road repairs in King William on Route 30 beginning in July 2014.

The VDOT contract, valued at $4.4 million, will repair a 4.4 mile section of Route 30 west of Route 360 and a 1.88 mile section in the Town of West Point.  VDOT will be removing and replacing four inches of asphalt on the 4.4 miles section west of Route 360 and removing and replacing two inches of asphalt on the 1.88 mile section in the Town of West Point.

In response to the upcoming road work, Delegate Peace stated, “Route 30 is a major transportation artery for citizens and business.  Transportation investments in King William will be greatly beneficial to residents, many of whom have contacted my office and raised serious concerns over road conditions.  Being mindful of the needs of the District and responsiveness to constituent concerns are my top priorities.” 

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to represent the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates.  The District includes parts of Hanover, King William, and all of New Kent County.

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Two Hanoverians Appointed to St. John’s Church Foundation Board of Trustees

Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) and Mrs. Anne Geddy Cross were recently appointed to serve on the Board of Trustees of the St. John’s Church Foundation. “As a native of Hanover County, I am pleased to contribute to the memory of our first Governor, Patrick Henry, as well as contribute to the joint marketing and economic development efforts of our area.  We have a rich Virginia heritage and need to work to find creative opportunities for promoting these valuable resources,” stated Peace. “I look forward to serving on the Board as we continue to advance the mission of St. John’s Church."

According to their website, the mission of St. John’s Church Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is to ensure the historic preservation of St. John’s Church, a National Historic Landmark in recognition as the original location of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death” speech, and to provide educational programs, tours and reenactments.

Speaking to the appointments, Sarah Whiting, Executive Director said, "We are thrilled to have Delegate Chris Peace and Mrs. Cross as new board members.  Their leadership, character and commitment to serving our community is invaluable and vital to sustaining the work of St. John's Church Foundation."

For more information or to schedule a visit to St. John’s Church visit: http://historicstjohnschurch.org/

May 29 is College Savings Day

-- Delegate Peace spreads word about Virginia529 College Savings Plan --

Each May, Virginia529 joins other state 529 plans in raising awareness of the importance of saving for college – and how tax-advantaged 529 plans can reduce student loan debt.  The campaign culminates on May 29, the day observed as 529 College Savings Day (529 Day).

In honor of 529 Day, Virginia529 is giving families $50 matches for new accounts. We also will award one person $2,500 toward a new or existing Virginia59 account.  Virginia529 College Savings Plan is a state agency that helps families save in advance for higher education.  Since the General Assembly formed Virginia529 in 1994, it has grown to become the largest 529 plan with more than 2.3 million accounts.

“Investing in a Virginia529 savings plan allows families to plan for future tuition costs. Choosing which college or university one will attend is an important life decision. I am committed to help create greater access and affordability in higher education.  If Virginia is going to attract 21st century technology, advanced manufacturing and other jobs of the creative class, we must have a strong workforce that is well educated. Education is the gateway to this opportunity,” said Peace.

Here are a few things you may not know about Virginia529:

• Because 529 plans can be used for technical, continuing education and advanced degree programs, anyone who can benefit from additional education can open a 529 account.
• A family can start a Virginia529 account with as little as $25 and then contribute to it as much and as frequently as they choose.
• Virginia residents may deduct contributions to Virginia529 accounts – up to $4,000 per account per year – from state income tax.

Have you been putting off opening a college savings account for your kids? Virginia529 has 50 reasons why you should start now. Open an account with at least $100 and Virginia529 will add $50 to reward you. Offer available through May 29, 2014. Visit www.virginia529.com/529day/ to learn more.

Delegate Peace Receives a Grade of A+ from State Chamber for Support of Business

-- Peace Awarded Excellence in Education and Workforce Development 2014 Business Legislative Report Card --

-- VA Chamber of Commerce Names Peace a champion of free enterprise --

Central Virginia – Each year following the General Assembly Session, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce develops a Legislative Report Card based on the priorities and expectations of Virginia's business community. The Legislative Report Card recognizes legislators for their support on initiatives that will help move Virginia forward, and additionally provides analysis of a legislator's support for the business community's priorities.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) was very pleased to be informed that this year, based on his voting record, he has received a grade of "A+" from the Virginia Chamber of Commerce.  Peace's voting record indicated strong support for the business community's priorities. This award marks the third year in a row Peace has earned a top rating with the Chamber.

"This rating reflects my belief that low taxes create opportunities for job creation and economic growth. We need a smaller government for a stronger economy, but I strongly believe that there is much more work to be done to make this vision a reality. To improve our community’s quality of life and sustain Virginia’s economic recovery, government must lower the burden on taxpayers and respect individual liberty.  For these reasons, I am pleased with this positive score,” commented Del. Peace

“We applaud Delegate Peace’s efforts in supporting the principles outlined in Blueprint Virginia. With the support of pro-business legislators like Peace, we can continue to strengthen Virginia’s business climate and maintain Virginia’s ranking as the Best State for Business,” said Barry DuVal, President and CEO, VA Chamber.

Additionally, the Chamber awarded Peace the Excellence in Education and Workforce Development Award for his efforts to promote early childhood education and the Transportation Reform Advocate Award for his promoting policies that enhance mobility, reduces congestion, and incorporates innovative smart road technologies.

According to their website, the mission of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce is to be a non-partisan, business advocacy organization that works in the legislative, regulatory and political arenas to act as the catalyst for positive change in all areas of economic development and competitiveness for the Commonwealth of Virginia.  Please visit the Chamber website: http://www.vachamber.com/

Delegate Christopher K. Peace appointed to Virginia Housing Commission

Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell recently appointed Delegate Christopher K Peace (R-Mechanicsville) to the Virginia Housing Commission. The mission of the Virginia Housing Commission is to study and provide recommendations to ensure and foster the availability of safe, sound and affordable housing for every Virginian. The Commission consist of 11 members, eight legislative members and three non-legislative citizen members. Five of the members of the House of Delegates are appointed by the Speaker of the House, three members of the Senate are appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules, and three non-legislative citizen members are appointed by the Governor.

Speaking about the appointment, Delegate Peace said "It is a great honor and responsibility to be entrusted to work with my colleagues to ensure that Virginia continues to move our housing opportunities forward." He continued “As a member of the General Laws Committee, I am tasked with deliberating over many bills that impact the housing industry.  Additionally I work with affordable housing advocacy groups.  Housing is not simply a pivotal economic engine, but also a key component in our quality of life.”

The Commission may also study and make recommendations relating to such other housing, real property, and community development issues as it may be called upon to consider or as may be desirable.

In early 2009, Peace organized a legislative working group which included for-profit and not-for-profit housing experts. In this "kitchen cabinet," a "Help Housing Now" housing policy package emerged and worked to address housing needs across the economic spectra including reforms to the living home tax credit, communities of opportunity incentives and ultimately establishment of the housing trust fund. Since that time, as Chairman of the House of Delegates Housing sub-committee, Peace continues to recognize that in a time of economic challenge elected leaders must come together to put Virginia first in bipartisan ways, working together for solutions particularly concerning an industry that employs so many directly and indirectly.  In 2010, Delegate Peace was pleased to be named a “Housing Hero” by the Virginia Housing Coalition.  This honor acknowledged his service to the public, particular and significant contributions to promoting affordable housing opportunities and legislative efforts to stimulate the housing market across the Commonwealth.

Peace RTD Sunday Commentary: "Gov McAuliffe has Tunnel Vision"

Click to read the Commentary

House Passes Academic-Year Career & Technical Education Governor's School Bill

--Delegate Peace is committed to educational opportunities in Virginia’s Schools--

Central Virginia – Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) announces passage of House Bill 887. House Bill 887, is a measure to pursue modeling for a Governor's School for Career and Technical Education (CTE).  CTE training provides good paying jobs and strengthens workforce training opportunities in fields such as HVAC, culinary arts, plumbing, electrical, and finance. The bill passed the House today by a vote of 89-9.

While Virginia has some of the best schools and most devoted educators in the world, ranked 4th best overall for K-12 education by Education Week’s “Quality Counts” survey, maintaining these high standards requires Virginia to build on its success and continue to innovate and improve. Such programs like the CTE will produce a highly talented and educated workforce critical for maintaining, evaluating and enhancing Virginia's economic competitiveness.

There was a recent Commonwealth Education Poll conducted by the Wilder School/VCU which was focused on higher education and workforce.   The survey also asked respondents about what they think students need to have in order to succeed.   A majority of Virginians (59%) indicated that it is more important to have specific job knowledge and skills than a college degree from a well-respected university in order to succeed in today’s workplace.  Only 29% thought that a college degree was more important to success.   Eight percent of respondents offered that both are important.   It is interesting to note that the percentage of respondents that indicated job-specific knowledge and skills was 9% higher than a national survey conducted by the Gallup organization that asked the same question. 

Former State School Superintendent Dr. Bill Bosher stated in his recent Sunday education editorial, “Del Chris Peace has introduced a bill that calls for a Governor’s School in trade and technical education. It’s a great idea. While degrees from three wonderful Virginia institutions have been rewarding, it was a father and rural high school that taught basic skills…and the guidance of a master plumber that brought the water back.” 

When speaking about the bill, Delegate Peace said, “Our commitment to a strong future requires an educated workforce. An educated workforce is also key to a competitive workforce, so to that end, one of my goals is to foster an environment where students can get the best education possible which fits their individual career goals. CTE students are not second-class students.”

He continued, “While some students will attend Virginia's universities or community colleges, there are other students who would benefit from a workforce development or career readiness program that provides technical training for jobs in high paying manufacturing fields. I am encouraged by the interest of school board members from the City of Richmond and Hanover counties among other jurisdictions around the state in support of this bill."

Peace Bill to Aid Victims of Crime Passes House

-- Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund Reform Bill Passes House--

CENTRAL VA – House Bill 885, patroned by Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) passed the House of Delegates by a vote of 99-0.  The measure joins other legislative and budgetary efforts this session to provide aid and assistance to victims of violent crime.

HB 885 would make it the policy of the Commonwealth to allow the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund to extend the time for filing a claim, to innocent victims of crime, if the prosecutor submits written notice that the crime is being investigated as a result of newly discovered evidence.

Hanover County’s Commonwealth Attorney Trip Chalkley brought the proposal to Delegate Peace based on a cold hit rape case from 1984 which he subsequently successfully prosecuted. As a result of the new trial, the victim incurred costs associated with counseling services. Compensation for those services was denied based on case law and a gap in the statutes. Peace's legislation corrects this problem and will allow this victim and any future cold hit case victims to access justifiable restitution.

Speaking to the bill, “As technology catches up with our legal system, new scientific evidence may result in the successful prosecution of cold cases.  These injured victims should be afforded to opportunity to apply to the Fund for restitution for their injuries,” stated Peace.

Chalkley praised Delegate Peace on this bill, saying “I appreciate Delegate Peace’s leadership in sponsoring and ensuring the passage of this bill. It takes great steps in compensating victims in some way for the indignities and costs born by the attacks on them." He also said, “It is important that the legislature recognized that ‘cold case victims’ are as worthy of compensation as those previously covered under the statute.”

According to their website, the Criminal Injury Compensation Fund (CICF), was created in 1977 to pay unreimbursed expenses of victims who suffer personal physical or emotional injury or death as a result of a crime. The Fund receives no tax dollars from the citizens of Virginia.  CICF is funded by court fees, assessments on offenders, restitution, and a federal Victim of Crime Act (VOCA) Grant to supplement monies available to victims of violent crime.  To learn more about CICF visit their website at: http://www.cicf.state.va.us/aboutus.shtml

House Passes Farrell/Peace "Keep Your Plan Act"

-- Del. Peace is Chief Co-Patron of measure to help in effort to keep your health insurance in Virginia --

-- “If you like it, Virginia, you can keep it," says Del. Peace --

Central Virginia – Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) announces passage of House Bill 1147, of which he is a Chief Patron. HB 1147 is a measure to guarantee that no provision of Virginia law would prevent someone from keeping their health plan if they like it.  The bill passed the House today by a vote of 98-0.

“Prior to and after passage of the Affordable Care Act, also known as ObamaCare, President Obama falsely reassured Americans time and time again that they could keep their plan if they like it. We now know the truth," said Peace.  “Even if they liked them, there is a high percentage of those in the individual market would not be able to keep their plans.”

Speaking to passage of the bill, Del. Peter Farrell (R-Henrico) said, “It is likely that thousands of Virginians have had their health care plans cancelled under ObamaCare.  This legislation puts Virginia in a posture to not be part of that uncertainty.  While we cannot control what happens in Washington, I believe we have a responsibility to the people of Virginia to protect them from the fallout of ObamaCare.”

HB 1147 states that, notwithstanding any other provision of Virginia law, insurance companies shall be allowed to continue to offer health insurance plans in all product markets that were in effect at any time during 2012 and 2013.  This bill would help protect Virginias from ObamaCare and serve to assure quality and affordable health care.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace named Vice Chair of House General Laws Committee and Chairman of Appropriations’ Transportation Subcommittee

--In advance of the 2014 General Assembly Session, Speaker of the House and Chairman of the Appropriation Committee name Chairman--

Central Virginia – Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) received two significant appointments for the upcoming 2014 General Assembly Session.  House Speaker William J. Howell named Delegate Peace as Vice-Chairman of the General Laws Committee.  Additionally, Delegate S. Chris Jones, in-coming Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, appointed Peace as Chairman of the House Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee.

Speaking about the appointments, Delegate Peace said, "It is a great honor and responsibility to be entrusted with these two additional leadership positions, especially at a critical time of state government transition and continuing economic recovery."

The Appropriations Committee handles all legislation with fiscal impact, including the adoption of the biennial state budget, claims, issuance of debt, and other matters concerning the expenditure of funds.

In response to becoming Chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee, Del. Peace noted, "Top priorities include working to ensure that transportation projects and their associated funding sources are transparent, effective and accountable. We must ensure that projects are funded with the right financing, getting the biggest bang for the tax dollar. We also must look to innovative approaches to transportation. Ultimately we need to solve transportation problems in the areas of greatest need and also in those places that can have a return on our investment. This is important so we can keep Virginia the best state in the country for business. A predictable and consistent flow of commerce in getting goods to market and people to and from work is vital to our overall economic outlook. Otherwise, I look forward to continuing to serve my constituents and the Commonwealth in my new roles."

In an effort to serve the Commonwealth to the best of his ability and address transportation needs and policy across the state, Delegate Peace has convened a blue ribbon panel to serve as his Transportation Advisory Council. This council will prepare briefings on existing projects and provide a SWOT analysis of our transportation infrastructure moving forward. Considerations will be given to multi-modal systems, rail and aviation.

"My Transportation Advisory Council incorporates a diverse set of members who will bring a variety of perspectives and leadership experiences from across the transportation sector, including freight rail, commuter rail, transportation infrastructure and engineering, commercial distribution, and shipping and port industry," explained Delegate Peace.

The General Laws committee is responsible for a large variety of legislation, ranging from alcoholic beverage licenses and sales to Veteran's Affairs. In addition to his recent appointment to Vice-Chairman of General Laws, Del. Peace will remain Chairman of the Housing Subcommittee.

The Virginia Nurses Foundation Recognizes Delegate Peace for his Legislative Service

-- Peace Recognized as a Friend of Nursing at 2013 Gala -- 

Central, VA –The Virginia Nurses Foundation (VNF) recently named Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) as a VNF Friend of Nursing at their 2013 Gala.  This award acknowledges Peace’s sponsorship of legislation that protects nurses working in Virginia correctional centers.

This award follows the successful passage of HB 2065 during the 2013 General Assembly session.  Peace’s bill protects the Department of Corrections (DOC) contractors, such as nurses and other medical practitioners which are directly engaged in the care, treatment, or supervision of persons in the Department of Corrections’ custody from assault.

Assaulting a DOC contractor will now be a Class 6 felony, with a six-month mandatory minimum; the same penalty for assaulting a DOC employee.  Previously, it was a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Speaking about the award, “I am proud to have supported legislation which protects nurses working to provide needed health care services in the DOC system.  It is an honor to be recognized by VNF,” stated Peace.

According to their website, the Virginia Nurses Association (VNA) established the Virginia Nurses Foundation to continue programs of support and innovation for nurses and nursing in the Commonwealth.  The mission of the VNA is to promote advocacy and education for registered nurses to advance professional practice and influence the delivery of quality care

Peace’s commitment to the successful passage of HB 2065 supports one of the VNA’s primary goals – to ensure a positive legislative and regulatory climate for nursing practice.

To learn more about VNA please visit: http://www.virginianurses.com

Virginia Society for Human Life PAC Endorses Delegate Christopher K. Peace

Central Virginia – The Virginia Society for Human Life PAC today endorsed the re-election of Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) to the Virginia House of Delegates. Peace’s legislative voting record was reviewed by the PAC prior to their endorsement.  In the endorsement letter received by Peace the PAC asserted, “In the tradition of Virginia’s own Thomas Jefferson, who wrote “The care of human life and happiness, and not destruction, is the chief and only legitimate object of good government.”

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the VSHL PAC.  I have worked to pass legislation that protects the unborn, such as “Conner’s Law,” which makes it a crime to injure or kill an unborn child during an attack on the mother.  I have supported measures to protect the rights of parents to be involved with their children’s lives when it comes to such issues as education and medical decisions.  I will continue to work to implement policies that make the 97^th District the best place to live, work and raise a family.”  stated Peace.

The purpose of VSHL PAC is to further the aims of VSHL in promoting the respect and protection of human life through political means.  The PAC goal is to help identify candidates for political office who respect human life.  Unlike their 501 C 4 and 501 C 3 organizations, the PAC is at liberty to freely disseminate information about specific political candidates and educate voters as to who really is the prolife candidate.  They do, however, restrict their issues to the prolife issue.

Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his fourth term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates.  The District includes parts of Hanover, King William, and all of New Kent County.

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King William Teacher Appointed to Governor's Teacher Cabinet

-- Delegate Peace proud to support nomination of Mrs. Connie Plum's Appointment to the Governor's Teacher Cabinet --

Central Virginia - Governor Bob McDonnell today announced the members of his Governor's Teacher Cabinet.  Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) applauds the Governor's choice of Connie Plum.  Mrs. Plum teaches Advanced Placement US History and US Government at King William High School.

The Governor's Teacher Cabinet includes teachers from every Superintendent Region in the Commonwealth.  The Cabinet was created by the Governor's Executive Order Number Sixty Three. It is scheduled to have its first meeting later this month, and will submit an interim report with initial recommendations by November 15, 2013.

Speaking in support of Mrs. Plum's appointment, Delegate Peace stated, "Mrs. Plum is a lifelong educator, with thirty years of service to the educational needs of our students and families.  She has experience at all levels, ranging from the implementation of a preschool early childhood autism program to middle school, high school, AP courses, and IB courses.  She is well liked by students, staff and parents, serves as a mentor that encourages students to apply themselves fully and achieve at high levels. She leads her students by example, with high expectations for their success."

Peace continued, "Mrs. Plum will be a strong voice for her colleagues as she advises the Governor McDonnell and the Secretary of Education on procedures, policies, and regulations directly affecting the classroom so that we can ensure the best possible learning experiences and opportunities for our students."

The Commonwealth has a top-ranked K-12 education system and world class teachers, but to continue this tradition of excellence we must constantly look for new and innovative ways to elevate our teacher workforce and prepare our children for the 21st Century economy.

The Governor's Teachers Cabinet will play a pivotal role in advising the administration about new strategies and ideas to enhance teacher quality and professionalism, increase parent and community involvement, reduce administrative burden, and close the achievement gap.  Virginia teachers know what works and what doesn't; this Cabinet will allow policy makers to hear directly from them.  Policy and program recommendations from those directly impacted in the classroom will work to strengthen Virginia's public school system.

Stew N Que: September 28 at the Peace Family Farm

Virginia Farm Bureau Federation AgPAC endorses Chris Peace for Re-Election

CENTRAL VA- Delegate Christopher K. Peace this week received the endorsement of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation (VFBF) AgPAC, a political action committee of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, in the race for the 97th House District seat in the Virginia House of Delegates. Expressing appreciation of the endorsement, Peace said, "I'm honored to have received this endorsement; it is a strong vote of confidence from the farmers of the Commonwealth. Agribusiness is an important part of Virginia's economy.  I am focused on working with my colleagues in the General Assembly and the agricultural community to get Virginia's economy moving again.  By embracing a solution-oriented approach, I will work to enact the right policies at this critical time to assure a more prosperous future for farmers and every other sector of Virginia's economy.  I support the right to farm and forest."

Peace is among 88 candidates that Virginia VFBF AgPAC has endorsed for House seats. Endorsements were made based on the recommendations of local committees of farmers.

“Each of these candidates has demonstrated a clear understanding of the needs and challenges farmers are facing and/or have proven their support through their favorable voting records while holding positions in the General Assembly.  We believe these candidates will help agriculture and forestry maintain its vitality as the number one industry in Virginia”   said Wayne F. Pryor, chairman of VFBF AgPAC and VFBF president.

The non-partisan VFBF AgPAC was created by Farm Bureau in 1999 and employs in-kind contributions to support candidates who can best support agriculture and Farm Bureau issues. A full list of candidates endorsed by the committee can be viewed online at www.VaFarmBureau.org

Virginia Pharmacists Association honors Peace with Award

-- Delegate Peace recognized for legislative efforts --

Central Virginia - Recently, Virginia Pharmacists Association honored Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) with the Award of Merit.  Delegate Peace worked to include in the Virginia General Assembly's biennial budget language which paves the way for piloting a cost-saving Medication Therapy Management (MMT) health care benefit for state employees.

MMT is collaboration between pharmacists, physicians, and patients to help ensure that patients are taking the right medication, in the right dosage, at the right time.  MTM allows pharmacists to spend more time counseling patients, physicians to perform periodic chart reviews to ensure effective drug regimens, and patients to receive additional education about how best to manage their chronic conditions.

"Medication Therapy Management services have demonstrated proven cost-savings across the country while simultaneously improving the quality of patient care.  Medication Therapy Management pilot programs have been instituted successfully in North Carolina, Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota," stated Peace.

He continued, "I have humbled to be honored with the Award of Merit. Enacting policies that increase the delivery of quality health care and passes on a cost savings to citizens is a win-win. Pharmacists should be recognized for the work they do to help our families and communities."

Speaking to the award, Tim Musselman, Executive Director states, "Delegate Peace has been a consistent friend to the profession of pharmacy and a strong advocate for our patients. We were proud to be able to present Delegate Peace with the Award of Merit at our annual convention. The Virginia Pharmacists Association presents this award to a non-pharmacist whose actions advance the profession of pharmacy.  Delegate Peace's budget amendment which established a Medication Therapy Management Pilot Program for state employees will not only improve the health of the Commonwealth's workforce but will also lead to significant savings to the state employee health plan. Only a handful of states have such a program in place and thanks to Delegate Peace's foresight and innovative approach to governing Virginia is now one of them."

REALTORS endorse Delegate Peace in his Re-Election Efforts

-- Peace Earns Support Based on Legislative Record --

Central Virginia – The Virginia Association of Realtors recently endorsed Delegate Christopher K.  Peace (R-Hanover) for his re-election as the Delegate from the 97^th District.  The endorsement recognizes his work on behalf of Virginia property owners and the real estate industry.

The Virginia Association of Realtors monitors a number of important bills covering a variety of issues each legislative session to determine endorsements.  Such issues include protecting property values and promoting a healthy business climate.  According to their website, “the Virginia Association of Realtors is the business advocate for real estate professionals in Virginia. VAR represents nearly 30,000 REALTORS® active in all phases of real estate brokerage, management, development and appraisal.”  They aim to “encourage laws that protect private property rights, limit government intrusion, and maintain an open marketplace.”

Delegate Peace, speaking about the support, said, “I am honored to receive the endorsement of the Virginia Association of Realtors.  Their efforts to protect the interests of Virginia property owners and the housing industry are important to Virginia’s economy and the quality of life of citizens across the Commonwealth.”

He continued, “Homeownership is the American dream, and an important part of a stable economy.  REALTORS ® work daily to assist people toward achieving their goal of homeownership.  I look forward to continuing to work with the Virginia Association of Realtors and the residents of the 97^th District to support policies to create a climate for sustained housing recovery.”

Delegate Peace Appointed to Leadership Metro Richmond Board of Directors

Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) was recently appointed to serve on the Board of Directors of Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR).  As a Class of 2005 member Peace has first-hand experience with the program and knows the important value of the program to the community. "Through participation in LMR I opened lines of communications with leaders from across the Richmond region, identified regional challenges, and established friendships which assist me in serving the region and my constituents in the legislature.  I look forward to serving on the Board as we work to continue to advance the mission of LMR." stated Peace.

According to their website, Leadership Metro Richmond’s mission is to connect and education a diverse group of community leaders, inspiring them to serve the Richmond region.  LMR achieves this through various programs, including the annual class.  The annual class advances this mission by providing participants the opportunity to learn more about challenges facing the region, the opportunity to enhance their abilities for community-wide leadership, and the opportunity to continue building their relationships with other community leaders.

For more information on LMR visit:  http://www.lmronline.org/