Mark Vucci appointed acting director at Division of Legislative Services

The Joint House and Senate Committee on Rules appointed Senior Attorney Mark J. Vucci as the Acting Director of the Division of Legislative Services on Monday, Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell and Senate Committee on Rules Chairman Ryan T. McDougle announced after accepting the resignation of Robert L. Tavenner as Director.

The director of the division serves at the pleasure of the General Assembly’s Committee on Joint Rules pursuant to § 30-28.12 of the Code of Virginia. Speaker Howell (R-Stafford) and Senator McDougle (R-Hanover), as Chair and Vice Chair respectively of the Joint Rules Committee, released the following joint statement:

“We appreciate Mr. Tavenner’s service to the Division of Legislative Services.  The effective operation of this agency is essential to the success of the legislative branch, especially during the General Assembly session.  The director of the division must work collaboratively and cooperatively with all 140 members of the legislature and other legislative branch agencies, be an engaged leader on a day-to-day basis, communicate consistently the agency’s mission to internal and external stakeholders, and set forth an innovative, constructive vision to address the many and changing needs of the legislature as it moves forward in the 21^stcentury.

“The Joint Rules Committee today appointed Mark J. Vucci as Acting Director.  In his nearly 10 years at the division, Mark has served ably both House and Senate committees.  A sensible leader in state government, he is respected by his colleagues, other legislative branch agency heads and members of the House and Senate.  Vucci will serve as acting director as the Joint Rules Committee evaluates how it will develop a search process for the agency’s next director.”

The Division of Legislative Services is a state agency within the legislative branch of government.  It assists legislators in fulfilling their duties and obligations as members of the Virginia General Assembly.  Essential division services include providing clear and objective information, conducting research, helping delegates and senators draft legislation, aiding with legislative studies and working in tandem with other leaders to advance the legislative institution and its processes.