State Senate Democrats talk state budget

On Thursday, Democratic state senators heard from the expert staff of the Senate Finance Committee on the fiscal issues facing Virginia.

Following the meeting, Democratic leaders made the following comments.

Sen. L. Louise Lucas (D-Portsmouth) said, “I am convinced, now more than ever before, that we need a long-term, sustainable plan to solve Virginia’s transportation crisis. Our roads are in disrepair, congestion costs commuters thousands, and new construction is being delayed. Hampton Roads is ground-zero for heavy tolls that could cost commuters and businesses thousands of dollars and hurt a crucial economic engine, tourism. I reject the Republican plan that forces ordinary Virginians to pay sky-high tolls.  I will not stand by while Virginia becomes a backwards, toll-heavy state.”

Sen. Henry L. Marsh (D-Richmond) said, “We heard today that Virginia’s public schools still don’t have the money they need to prepare our children for the global economy. At a time like this, I am deeply disappointed that Republicans stand by their decision to give taxpayer dollars to exclusive private academies. We should be investing in our public schools.”