On March 20, 2015 I was on CNN to talk about the ABC situation and steps the General Assembly should consider to ensure these situations do not happen again.
https://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2015/03/20/tsr-dnt-todd-uva-arrest-controversy.cnn
Commentary on Virginia and U.S. Politics & Culture
On March 20, 2015 I was on CNN to talk about the ABC situation and steps the General Assembly should consider to ensure these situations do not happen again.
https://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2015/03/20/tsr-dnt-todd-uva-arrest-controversy.cnn
This morning I had an op/ed published in the Richmond Times Dispatch on the more than $500 million in tax credits we have sent to the coalfields. Read my op/ed below:
Richmond, VA – Today, House Republican members of Subcommittee #1 of the House Committee for Militia, Police, and Public Safety voted to kill legislation carried by Democratic Leader David Toscano (D-57) to provide resources for voluntary background checks to be conducted for sales between individuals at gun shows.
House Bill 2370, which was supported by Governor Terry McAuliffe and Secretary Brian J. Moran, would have state police officers be available to conduct such voluntary background checks, solely at the request of the individual seller — which would help move the Commonwealth towards better public safety through common-sense gun safety reform.
“The Governor and I appreciate Delegate Toscano’s leadership in carrying the voluntary background check bill, and share his disappointment that this common-sense measure failed,” said Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Moran. “It would have provided an avenue for private sellers to conduct a background check prior to selling or transferring a firearm at gun shows. The results from today’s subcommittee meeting will not deter us from continuing to pursue common-sense legislation that enhances public safety throughout the Commonwealth.”
“I am disappointed,” said Democratic Leader Toscano. “This common-sense legislation would have given sellers the right and choice to obtain a background check, ensuring they were not selling their guns to a dangerous individual. Keeping our streets safe is important to building our new Virginia economy. Safe schools, safe streets and safe communities only help to attract businesses to Virginia — making this issue one that should be a top priority for every member of the General Assembly.”
Speaking in support of Delegate Toscano’s bill, Sheriff Harding highlighted that “stopping a repeat offender early could prevent them from going on to commit much more heinous crimes.”
“This initiative has the potential to save lives and prevent future tragedies,” said Delegate Toscano. “It enjoys bipartisan support and we hope it will pass.”
The bill moves forward as a joint initiative of Toscano and Delegate Rob Bell (R-58).
Whatever one thinks about the actions of the former Governor and First Lady, you cannot help but be saddened by what has happened to them and to our Commonwealth. The decision today closes a depressing chapter in Virginia history. The jury carefully considered the evidence and has now spoken. With its verdict, it sends a clear message that public officials are not above the law and that those of us who have the honor to serve have a special responsibility to keep the public trust.
I hope this verdict will improve the prospects of enacting further ethics and campaign finance reform in the Commonwealth.
211 E. High Street
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Phone: 434-977-7977
Fax: 434-977-4847
davidjtoscano@gmail.com