Statement of Governor Warner on the Passage of HB 50118, the Tax Reform Compromise Act of 2004

April 13, 2004

Statement of Governor Warner on the Passage of HB 50118, the Tax Reform Compromise Act of 2004

RICHMOND - Governor Mark R. Warner issued the following statement on the passage today of Delegate Parrish's HB 5018 , the Tax Reform Compromise Act of 2004, by Virginia 's House of Delegates:

"Today, a coalition of 53 responsible members of the Virginia House of Delegates voted to put partisan politics aside and support significant tax reform for the people of Virginia. I commend members from both parties - Democrats and Republicans - who worked to get HB 5018 through the House.

"While the amended version of HB 5018 produces less than the original compromise, it is a significant accomplishment. I will continue to work toward a final compromise that safeguards Virginia 's fiscal integrity, promotes tax fairness, and provides adequate funding for our core priorities.

"With today's vote behind us, we must be clear that a budget from the General Assembly is still long overdue. Continuing delays in getting a budget to my desk will create severe hardships for our citizens. Localities across Virginia will be unable to adopt their budgets, and as a result, many may have to raise property taxes.

"Today's vote creates momentum. Leaders in the House and the Senate should seize this momentum and work toward a budget compromise without further delay."