The Issues

Economic Freedom

A Blueprint for Fixing Virginia

By: Michael W. Thompson (This column first ran in the Richmond Times Dispatch on December 28, 2011) As the members of the General Assembly prepare to gather in January, much...

Mike Thompson
January 4, 2012

Taxes or User Fees to Pay for our Roads?

It’s time Virginians learn the difference between taxes and user fees. Gov. Bob McDonnell has forced the issue by proposing to boost spending for Virginia roads by diverting more money...

Jefferson Forum
January 4, 2012

Future of Tolling at Stake in Highway Reauthorization

As Virginia tries to tackle its growing traffic congestion problems, some are looking to Congress to bring more money to the table. Bob Poole’s article below outlines what is likely...

Jefferson Forum
December 14, 2011

Richmond Office Vacancy Rates Reflect Slow Economic Growth

(This article first ran in the Richmond Times Dispatch) Commercial office space is the other shoe that many investors thought would fall and disrupt the banking system in a manner...

Jefferson Forum
December 14, 2011

Is “Sluggish Economy” the New Normal?

Some analysts have started talking about the sluggish U.S. economic growth as the “new normal.” I have a hard time with that term. For one thing, “normal” is a relative...

Christine Chmura
December 1, 2011

Pension Plan Reform in Virginia

Defined benefit (DB) plans now are part of the fiscal debate in many states   and localities, and Virginia is no exception. Virginia has been a leader in responsible and innovative...

Robert C. Carlson
October 27, 2011

The Great MWAA Bait and Switch

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) seems to think the people of the region and their elected officials have either short or poor memories. MWAA’s attempt to shift the $300...

Jefferson Forum
July 22, 2011

The Great MWAA Bait and Switch

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) seems to think the people of the region and their elected officials have either short or poor memories. MWAA’s attempt to shift the $300...

Jefferson Forum
July 11, 2011

Virginia Still Feeling Effects of Housing Crisis

Virginia may be doing better than the national average, but it’s still feeling the effects of the housing crisis. Here’s an advance look at analysis from Foreclosures Dampen the Economic...

Christine Chmura
June 22, 2011

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.