The Issues

Economic Freedom

Virginia and the Next Global Debt Crisis

Ten years ago the Lehman Brothers debacle precipitated the financial meltdown we associate with the Great Recession, and the financial media are full of retrospectives. A key question is what...

Jefferson Forum
September 19, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Tax Conformity

Unless the Virginia General Assembly acts, most Virginians will see their state tax taxes rise next year. But what does “conformity” with the federal tax code mean? And what are...

Stephen D. Haner
September 17, 2018

Steps Virginia Must Take to Tax Internet Sales

Conformity to recent federal income tax changes is not the only challenge (or opportunity, depending on your point of view) facing the 2019 Virginia General Assembly. It may also be...

Jefferson Forum
September 5, 2018

Economic Impact: Consumer confidence is running high

Consumer confidence was higher in August than it has been since October 2000. The Conference Board’s index, which is published monthly, reflects consumers’ perception of business health, employment and income...

Jefferson Forum
September 5, 2018

Texas Tolling Far From Dead

(Editor’s note: transportation ideas from other states can be a help to Virginia as we try to figure out how to develop a system to lessen congestion and enhance economic...

Jefferson Forum
September 5, 2018

Federal Tax Cuts Should Spur Real Tax Reform in VA

A new battle is brewing here in Virginia. Most Virginians aren’t aware of this, but we need to be because it affects our taxes, our income and the ability of...

Mike Thompson
August 22, 2018

Full Conformity Raises $3.6B In First Five Years

Assuming the Virginia General Assembly conforms the state’s tax rules to the IRS code as it exists now, adopting intact the recent federal changes, the state will reap an additional...

Jefferson Forum
August 22, 2018

The New York Times Drops the Ball on Automated Vehicles

At times the popular media coverage of transportation makes me cringe. Many news outlets lack a dedicated transportation reporter, and the person whose job it is to cover the story...

Jefferson Forum
August 22, 2018

State Implications of Federal Tax Reform in Virginia

The new federal tax law cuts federal taxes for most filers in Virginia, but without action by the Commonwealth’s General Assembly, many Virginians will experience an unlegislated increase in their...

Jared W
August 14, 2018

Jefferson Forum concentrates on policies that affect everyday life in Virginia

Economic Freedom

Lower taxes and fewer regulations

Education Freedom

More choices for Virginia families

Energy Freedom

Reliable, affordable energy

Worker Freedom

Protecting Virginia’s right-to-work tradition

These are the building blocks of a more competitive and prosperous Virginia.