Statement of the Governor on Approval of H.B. 3202

- H.B. 3202 is a legislative transportation proposal -

RICHMOND - Governor Timothy M. Kaine released the following statement tonight in response to today's 61-37 vote in the House of Delegates on House Bill 3202, an omnibus transportation proposal sponsored by Speaker William J. Howell:

"I applaud the House of Delegates for approving this proposal and sending a transportation plan to the Senate.

"The House passage of this bill is a further indication that there are significant areas of consensus as we continue to consider solutions to our serious transportation funding challenges. The transportation challenges are statewide. They are especially acute in the Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads regions. A solution will require substantial additional revenues. And the discussion also must include reforms that promote accountability and strengthen the link between transportation and land use.

"I continue to have concerns about some elements of this proposal, and we will continue to work closely with the leaders in the House and the Senate to address those concerns as this proposal moves through the legislative process. I am encouraged that significant changes already have improved this legislation since it was first announced by the legislative leadership.

"This vote was an important step, and much hard work remains. There is ample time to craft a plan that moves Virginia forward before this session is scheduled to adjourn.

"Our transportation challenges have been unaddressed for too long. Virginians deserve our best efforts to reach a common-sense solution that is comprehensive, long-term, and fair."

http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=335

Source