Area legislators support McDonnell government reform initiatives

Area legislators expressed support Tuesday for Gov. Bob McDonnell’s reform initiatives that would eliminate numerous state organizations and boards, and consolidate others at a savings of $2 million per year.

The governor’s proposals would ax two state agencies, 19 boards and commissions and merge seven agencies and 23 boards and commissions into 11 boards and commissions.

There is also a suggestion of de-regulating three professions. The suggestions come from the Governor’s Commission on Reform and Restructuring.

One local delegate said the influence of the McDonnell administration would be key in getting the initiatives passed by the General Assembly. But he cautioned there could be resistance.

“It is always easier said than done to consolidate state agencies,” said Del. Steve Landes, R-Weyers Cave. “But when a governor gets behind it, it makes it a little easier.”

Landes said he anticipates lobbying and turf battles by those who will resist the recommendations.

Del. Dickie Bell, R-Staunton, said the proposals are a good first step and necessary.

“If we are serious about reducing the size of government, these are the types of things we need to look seriously at,” Bell said. He said the savings of $2 million a year would add up over time.

“I really have to wonder about the necessity of all these boards and commissions,” he said. “They are full of people who are there by way of political appointments.”

Bell said that, if the General Assembly can act on McDonnell’s suggestions, it would make government smaller and efficient.

Del. Ben Cline, R-Lexington, is a new member of the Commission on Reform and Restructuring. He has been a proponent of a smaller state government and a transparent one.

“Taken as a whole, I am generally supportive,” Cline said. The three professions that are recommended for deregulation include interior designers, mold inspectors and remediators, and hair braiders.

Cline said the three professions would still have to adhere to the state safety and inspection code.

When asked about the potential savings of $2 million a year, Cline said, “When you are making up a shortfall of $1 billion, every dollar in savings helps.”