Robert Hurt: The future health of our economy depends on affordable energy solutions

Robert Hurt

While the recent February jobs report issued by the Department of Labor suggests some welcome signs of improvement, our national unemployment rate still remains unacceptably high and our economic recovery still has a long way to go. The House has taken several steps to remove the barriers to job growth by remaining committed to cutting…

Augusta Health employees earn certifications

Chris Graham

During the last quarter, 24 Augusta Health employees earned national certifications in their areas of expertise. These certifications require demonstration of extensive knowledge in a subject area, usually by examination. “We are very proud of the number of our employees who pursue national certification and distinguish themselves as experts in their fields,” said Mary N….

Robert Hurt: The Fifth District economy needs the freedom to grow

Robert Hurt

It was great to be back in Central and Southside Virginia for the past week. I believe that my ability to be a good representative in Congress depends on listening to and hearing from the people across the Fifth District, and this past work week I had the opportunity to meet with a variety of…

Robert Hurt: The urgent need to cut government spending and reduce government debt

Robert Hurt

This past week, the House debated HR 1, the Full Year Continuing Appropriations Act. This bill would fund the government through September 30th of this year at $100 billion less than the amount President Obama requested in his Fiscal Year 2011 budget. Given the current fiscal crisis that faces the Fifth District and the nation,…

Robert Hurt: Jobs remain a top priority

Robert Hurt

It was great to spend the entire week in the Fifth District. After meeting with and hearing from many constituents, local leaders, and businesses, it became clear that job creation remains the top priority for Central and Southside Virginians. Getting the chance to visit several different businesses in the district and directly asking our employers…

Creigh Deeds: Session report

Creigh Deeds

The 2011 General Assembly session is racing toward conclusion. We are now at the halfway point, the crossover, when each house must complete work on its own bills. We are just days away from having competing versions of the budget adopted and finalizing actions on a number of controversial issues. Intensifying the work is the…

Robert Hurt: Cutting government spending to create jobs and grow the economy

Robert Hurt

This week, President Obama gave his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. It was encouraging to hear the President focus on the pressing need to get our fiscal house in order. Where there is room for consensus on these important issues that affect job creation, I look forward to working…

Robert Hurt: The first step, not the last, towards true health-care reform

Robert Hurt

The people of the Fifth District sent a clear message on Election Day in support of repealing the government takeover of health care. This week, I was proud to put the will of the people into action by co-sponsoring and voting to repeal the health care law that raises costs, increases taxes and spending, and…

Robert Hurt: Moving forward together

Robert Hurt

This was a somber week in Congress as the House passed a resolution to honor the victims of the tragedy in Tucson. I was deeply saddened and disturbed by the senseless attacks on Representative Giffords, members of her staff, and all of the victims in Tucson, Arizona. Our prayers are for speedy and full recoveries…