GOP Announces New Joint Republican Business Caucus

Fairfax, Virginia (May 15, 2009) Republican leaders announced today a newly created Joint Republican Business Caucus (JRBC) focusing on statewide business issues and job creation. The JRBC will include House and Senate members from across the Commonwealth and will work closely with Virginia’s business leaders to make certain our business climate remains one of the best in the nation.

Each member will bring a dynamic approach to the JRBC; Delegate Tim Hugo (Fairfax), Chairman of General Laws Chris Jones (Suffolk), Chairman of Commerce and Labor Terry Kilgore (Gates City), Senator Ryan McDougle (Richmond), and Senator Frank Wagner (Virginia Beach) have regional perspectives and fresh ideas to bring before the caucus that will undoubtedly benefit statewide business. In the coming months, the JRBC expects to grow as other Republicans join this business friendly endeavor.

“This is a joint effort to bring more jobs to Virginia and also make sure jobs stay in Virginia,” said Delegate Tim Hugo. “Virginia is a premier state to employ workers and we want to make sure we continue to build upon our previous successes.”

“It’s exciting to get a coalition of General Assembly Members together that will go to bat for the business community,” said Senator Ryan McDougle. “Virginia has not had a caucus of this nature in the past, as a group we look forward to the opportunity to bolster business and stimulate job growth.”

Speaker Bill Howell and Senate Minority Leader Tommy Norment issued a joint statement saying, “This is another way Republicans are reaching out to the business community. We are steadfast in our efforts to re-vitalize Virginia’s economy and lead in a manner that will spur business growth and longevity rather than limit it.”

The Joint Republican Business Caucus will use its access and influence to further the economic vitality and long-term prosperity of Virginia’s business community. With the tough economic climate, it is imperative that the General Assembly is focused on the needs of the job creators and keep Virginia the Best State to Do Business!

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