Thursday, November 19, 2015

Thank you...and a glimpse of what's ahead

96th District, Virginia House of Delegates                                    November 19, 2015 

Stay Connected!
 
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter View our videos on YouTube
  
Join Our Mailing List!

Contact Delegate Pogge

 

District Office 

(Outside of Session):

1201 Jamestown Road

Williamsburg, VA 23185

757-223-9690

DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov

 

Please send mail to:

P.O. Box 196

Norge, VA 23127
 
Legislative Aide
Amanda Johnston
Amanda@brendapogge.com
Now that the dust of the 2015 Election has settled, I would like to thank you all of you who supported me with your volunteer efforts, financial contributions, and--most importantly--your vote. Additionally, I would like to thank Mr. Brandon Waltrip, my challenger in the 96th House District. Running for office requires an incredible commitment of time and energy, and I commend those willing to pursue public service. 

I take seriously my responsibility to serve as your voice in Richmond, and I look forward to continuing to work with you during the upcoming years. As the 2016 General Assembly session approaches, please keep me aware of of your legislative priorities. To keep up with newly filed bills, please visit http://lis.virginia.gov/

In the news: Syrian refugees
Last week's attacks in Paris highlight the security challenges facing not only European nations, but also the United States. While my thoughts and prayers remain with the victims' families, I am also extremely concerned about the safety of Virginians. The Syrian refugee program has drawn much attention, and I join my Republican colleagues in asking Governor McAuliffe to stop the settlement of these refugees in Virginia.

Although I recognize that many refugees are fleeing sectarian violence, radical Islamic extremists have proven they are willing to exploit the system. Of equal concern is the fact that the FBI director believes there are gaps in the screening system. For this reason, I support legislation to refuse Syrian refugee resettlements in Virginia for a two year period. I have received numerous emails and phonecalls supporting this proposal, and I thank those of you who took the time to share your feedback.
In the news: Medicaid costs
I've spent much of this week at the House Appropriations retreat, where my colleagues and I heard fiscal projections and reports. Of great concern is the soaring cost of Medicaid. Even though Republicans blocked Medicaid expansion within Virginia, costs are nevertheless rising at a dramatic rate. In fact, expenditures are forecasted to be $1 billion higher than during the previous budget cycle. Those rising costs reduce the funds available for other priorities, such as K-12 education. 

Not only can Virginia not afford to expand Medicaid, but we must also reform the current system. A recent study by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) reported that "Virginia policies do not ensure that all eligibility criteria are verified for all individuals." This is a serious problem, and I am committed to working with my Republican colleagues to find a solution that will safeguard taxpayer dollars.
Out and about
Campaign season may have passed, but I remain just as busy. Following are a few photos of events I've recently attended.
2015 Family Foundation Gala with Senator Ted Cruz and his father, Rafael Cruz. Plus, Martha Boneta!
2015 Family Foundation Gala with
Governor Bob McDonnell
2015 Family Foundation Gala with Martha Boneta,
JCC Berkeley District Supervisor Mary Jones, and Congressman Dave Brat
Boys & Girls Club Neighborhood Builder Award Ceremony
2015 House Appropriations retreat visit to DuPont Fabros Technology Data Center

Stay in touch!
If you have questions or concerns when dealing with a state agency, please do not hesitate to contact me for assistance. Also, if you have ideas for legislation, please send me an email within the next two weeks! My door is always open, and I look forward to hearing from you. You can reach me by email at DelBPogge@house.virginia.gov or by phone at 757-223-9690. 

Sincerely,
 Signature  
Delegate Brenda Pogge


Paid for and Authorized by Brenda Pogge for Delegate
Forward email



This email was sent to alexanderofyork@gmail.com by brenda@brendapogge.com |  


Brenda Pogge for Delegate | P.O. Box 196 | Norge | VA | 23127

No comments:

Post a Comment