This is a poll to get some numbers to send to our Gov Kaine and Senators and Delegates. Please vote so we have numbers to show where WE THE PEOPLE stand on this issue. We have over 10,000 members and can be a large voice in this issue. Let them know we won't stand for broken promises. Here's the back gorund on the issue. Please also check out the forum post about how else you can help to make your voice heard!
http://vbsf.ipbhost.com/index.php?showtopic=11339
CCA Virginia Alert-Governor Kaine raid on VSRFDF Funds
In 2004 CCA Virginia asked you to contact Governor Warner using these words
“CCA supported legislation this year to allow the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) to increase license and permit fees levied for recreational and commercial fishing. A citizens committee developed the parameters for the legislation. CCA volunteers participated on the committee. The committee felt that it was important that any fee increases be equitable and also felt that it was critical that the proceeds of such fee increases stay in the dedicated recreational and commercial license funds and not be used to replace general funds. Further they felt that both of these dedicated funds need additional money in order to better serve their user group's needs.”
None of that has changed. However, Governor Kaine is now proposing to break that trust and transfer $416,357 from the dedicated non-reverting Virginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund into the general fund in order to help cover shortfalls in the present Virginia state budget of $641,000,000.
The only way that we have to prevent this type of raid on our funds is for YOU to let Richmond know that YOU want them to honor the promise made by the Governor’s predecessors, former Secretaries of Natural Resources and the legislature. This promise is that our license money would not be transferred to the general fund.
It will take your help to get enough letters faxes and emails to the Governor and our State Senators and Delegates. You have to insist that they not break their agreements between recreational fishermen and the government regarding the dedicated nature of this fund. If the Governor and the General Assembly are successful in raiding the funds this year then probably we will see more raids on OUR fund in the future.
According to the code of Virginia section 28.2-302.3, the Fund and the interest on the fund shall not revert to the general fund. The Fund is financed from the sale of Saltwater Fishing Licenses. The Fund is to be used solely for the purposes of conserving and enhancing finfish species take by recreational anglers, improving recreational fishing opportunities, administrating the Virginia Saltwater Sport Fishing Tournament certificates program, obtaining necessary data and conducting research for fisheries management, and conducting research for fisheries management. Since inception of the legislation in 1992 creating the Fund, $27,367,369.00 has been raised from the sale of Saltwater Fishing Licenses to recreational anglers.
Full Version: Gov Kaine and the Va Rec Fund
Virginia Beach Sport Fishing > VBSF.net Sport Fishing Forums > Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Waters to 15 miles (Ocean City MD to Hatteras NC)
This morning, I sent this letter to Governor Kaine. It is strongly worded, and I may feel some adverse repercussions from it but who cares. This represents my thoughts and feelings on the subject:
Dear Governor,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. I am shocked that you would propose such action.
Your consideration of this reprehensible act may have already done significant damage to any political aspirations you might have beyond the Governor's Office. Sportsmen and women will not forget. And should this evil plan be enacted, I will do everything within the confines of the law, as a private citizen and resident of the Great State of Virginia, to ensure you never work as an elected offical in or for this state again. That includes marshalling public opinion against you and anyone in the State Legislature that fails to oppose your efforts. Standing on the sidelines while the people who elected and trusted you are raped is not an option.
I realize that I am but one man, and one voice is easily lost in the din. But I have a feeling that you are about to hear the roar of thousands. And they are not so easily ignored.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider this vile action. There is absolutely no good that can come from it.
Dear Governor,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. I am shocked that you would propose such action.
Your consideration of this reprehensible act may have already done significant damage to any political aspirations you might have beyond the Governor's Office. Sportsmen and women will not forget. And should this evil plan be enacted, I will do everything within the confines of the law, as a private citizen and resident of the Great State of Virginia, to ensure you never work as an elected offical in or for this state again. That includes marshalling public opinion against you and anyone in the State Legislature that fails to oppose your efforts. Standing on the sidelines while the people who elected and trusted you are raped is not an option.
I realize that I am but one man, and one voice is easily lost in the din. But I have a feeling that you are about to hear the roar of thousands. And they are not so easily ignored.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider this vile action. There is absolutely no good that can come from it.
^^^^well said
Would anyone on this board actually vote yes?
Would anyone on this board actually vote yes?
I think I just voted wrong, I meant to vote for "No I would not vote for anyone who would do such a thing". Maybe we should have a recount?
Maybe Don has the power to change my Vote, maybe Don has the power to change the votes that put Timbo in office?
In the 2000 election, I think I accidently voted for Pat Buchanan. Im not sure but there seemed to be a dangling chad.
I would say other things, but that would only get John and George going again.
Maybe Don has the power to change my Vote, maybe Don has the power to change the votes that put Timbo in office?
In the 2000 election, I think I accidently voted for Pat Buchanan. Im not sure but there seemed to be a dangling chad.
I would say other things, but that would only get John and George going again.
I have the power!!!! 
15 votes...where are the other 10188?>!?!?!?! Be heard...if you fish and buy a license...its your money going by-by!!!
15 votes...where are the other 10188?>!?!?!?! Be heard...if you fish and buy a license...its your money going by-by!!!
Make that 16. #'s add up very quickly, watch out Kaine! It's not like were asking him to give a free ferrari to everybody in Va.
I find it amazing...113 views and 17 votes!!! The "Best fish of the season" poll has more votes and this has to do with YOUR money.
You don't need to post, just place a vote and make a stand!!
You don't need to post, just place a vote and make a stand!!
I would first like to thank "skinnys-kid" and VBSF for drawing my attention to this, myself and I'm sure many other anglers would not have been informed of the issue at hand had it not been for this site. I have e-mailed Gov. Kaine and written my state delegate and state senator, also gave my vote to the poll. Hopefully enough fisherman care about how their money is being used to speak up and be heard.
Daniel
Daniel
QUOTE (Marlin Maniac @ Nov 15 2007, 10:32 AM)
This morning, I sent this letter to Governor Kaine. It is strongly worded, and I may feel some adverse repercussions from it but who cares. This represents my thoughts and feelings on the subject:
Dear Governor,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. I am shocked that you would propose such action.
Your consideration of this reprehensible act may have already done significant damage to any political aspirations you might have beyond the Governor's Office. Sportsmen and women will not forget. And should this evil plan be enacted, I will do everything within the confines of the law, as a private citizen and resident of the Great State of Virginia, to ensure you never work as an elected offical in or for this state again. That includes marshalling public opinion against you and anyone in the State Legislature that fails to oppose your efforts. Standing on the sidelines while the people who elected and trusted you are raped is not an option.
I realize that I am but one man, and one voice is easily lost in the din. But I have a feeling that you are about to hear the roar of thousands. And they are not so easily ignored.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider this vile action. There is absolutely no good that can come from it.
Dear Governor,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. I am shocked that you would propose such action.
Your consideration of this reprehensible act may have already done significant damage to any political aspirations you might have beyond the Governor's Office. Sportsmen and women will not forget. And should this evil plan be enacted, I will do everything within the confines of the law, as a private citizen and resident of the Great State of Virginia, to ensure you never work as an elected offical in or for this state again. That includes marshalling public opinion against you and anyone in the State Legislature that fails to oppose your efforts. Standing on the sidelines while the people who elected and trusted you are raped is not an option.
I realize that I am but one man, and one voice is easily lost in the din. But I have a feeling that you are about to hear the roar of thousands. And they are not so easily ignored.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider this vile action. There is absolutely no good that can come from it.
BY GEORGE, GEORGE ----- WE ARE ON THE SAME PAGE...
Very well stated my freind....I like it when you and I find outselves on the same side of a political issue....I know, not as much fun, but what the hell..... Most polititcians can take the whole "give them an inch and they'll take a mile" to the greatest of extremes. As long as we, the voters, keep puttting such folks (career politicians, of any party) back in office, year after year.....we will continue to see this type of abuse and abject disregard for the population's opinions....
Let's face it, the only way we have to combat this kind of crap is through the ballot box........... If you put your dirty, greasy hand in the cookie jar, time and time again, and not only does no one slap it, they continue to add cookies.............
My letter, sent a few minutes ago.............
Governor Kaine,
It has just come to my attention that you (the State of Virginia government) plan to raid the VA Saltwater Recreational Fishing Developement Fund to offset the poor fiscal management of this state's government.
I'm sure you realize that the State of Virginia made a pact with it's recreational fisherman in 1993 when this was introduced. I find it not only appalling, but down right disrespectful to it's citizens, that the government would even contemplate such a measure.
I have for largest part of my adult life voiced my political opinion through my vote at the ballot box. This, and other abuses I have seen over the past several years has me questioning that mentality. If this injustice finds it's way to reality, I will do everything in my power (by peaceful means) to see to it the politians that allow this abuse to occur under their watch, not see re-election in any government position.
I never considered myself and "activist", I suppose it takes blatent abuse such as this to create one, thank you.
Governor Kaine,
It has just come to my attention that you (the State of Virginia government) plan to raid the VA Saltwater Recreational Fishing Developement Fund to offset the poor fiscal management of this state's government.
I'm sure you realize that the State of Virginia made a pact with it's recreational fisherman in 1993 when this was introduced. I find it not only appalling, but down right disrespectful to it's citizens, that the government would even contemplate such a measure.
I have for largest part of my adult life voiced my political opinion through my vote at the ballot box. This, and other abuses I have seen over the past several years has me questioning that mentality. If this injustice finds it's way to reality, I will do everything in my power (by peaceful means) to see to it the politians that allow this abuse to occur under their watch, not see re-election in any government position.
I never considered myself and "activist", I suppose it takes blatent abuse such as this to create one, thank you.
My apologies, Do to my lack of attention to detail, when I read this post earlier I didn't realize there was a vote attached to it. I have voted now and sent an e-mail to gov Kaine IRT to this matter.
I have visited several over fishing forums on the internet, and this is by far the best and most active. I am very much so an amateur fisherman and have gained a wealth of knowledge from all you old salts. Thankyou
For those that are newbies like me, the voting option is at the top of this post.
Click the link to see how the Virginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing fund is allocated:
http://www.mrc.virginia.gov/vsrfdf/pdf/swrfdf.pdf
I have visited several over fishing forums on the internet, and this is by far the best and most active. I am very much so an amateur fisherman and have gained a wealth of knowledge from all you old salts. Thankyou
For those that are newbies like me, the voting option is at the top of this post.
Click the link to see how the Virginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing fund is allocated:
http://www.mrc.virginia.gov/vsrfdf/pdf/swrfdf.pdf
MY letter was sent see below. Thanks to some of you for part of the letter.
Dear Governor Kaine,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. How about diverting your salary or your entertainment fund to compensate for the loss.
With the the position of governor comes fiscal responsibility to the citizens of this state and to the people you promised to get into office. As you are aware angering groups of people will not guarantee a re-election in this state to any position that you may seek in the future, this includes the national stage as well. I am shocked that you would propose such action. Your consideration of this reprehensible act shows that you care nothing about the millions of dollars that are generated by the recreational fisherman in this state and the tourists that visit this state to fish our waters. Sportsmen and women will not forget. The raping of this fund shows your ineptness to plan and shows that you are not an angler who enjoys that great fisheries of this state and it's waters.
I realize that this is just one voice of many but I am sure you will receive many letter to tell you how reprehensible this is to the state's anglers.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider and show the anglers of this state that you care about our fund and show more fiscal responsibility to this state.
Respectfully
Mark Carstens
Dear Governor Kaine,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. How about diverting your salary or your entertainment fund to compensate for the loss.
With the the position of governor comes fiscal responsibility to the citizens of this state and to the people you promised to get into office. As you are aware angering groups of people will not guarantee a re-election in this state to any position that you may seek in the future, this includes the national stage as well. I am shocked that you would propose such action. Your consideration of this reprehensible act shows that you care nothing about the millions of dollars that are generated by the recreational fisherman in this state and the tourists that visit this state to fish our waters. Sportsmen and women will not forget. The raping of this fund shows your ineptness to plan and shows that you are not an angler who enjoys that great fisheries of this state and it's waters.
I realize that this is just one voice of many but I am sure you will receive many letter to tell you how reprehensible this is to the state's anglers.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider and show the anglers of this state that you care about our fund and show more fiscal responsibility to this state.
Respectfully
Mark Carstens
QUOTE (skinnys-kid @ Nov 15 2007, 09:36 AM)
This is a poll to get some numbers to send to our Gov Kaine and Senators and Delegates. Please vote so we have numbers to show where WE THE PEOPLE stand on this issue. We have over 10,000 members and can be a large voice in this issue. Let them know we won't stand for broken promises. Here's the back gorund on the issue. Please also check out the forum post about how else you can help to make your voice heard!
http://vbsf.ipbhost.com/index.php?showtopic=11339
CCA Virginia Alert-Governor Kaine raid on VSRFDF Funds
In 2004 CCA Virginia asked you to contact Governor Warner using these words
“CCA supported legislation this year to allow the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) to increase license and permit fees levied for recreational and commercial fishing. A citizens committee developed the parameters for the legislation. CCA volunteers participated on the committee. The committee felt that it was important that any fee increases be equitable and also felt that it was critical that the proceeds of such fee increases stay in the dedicated recreational and commercial license funds and not be used to replace general funds. Further they felt that both of these dedicated funds need additional money in order to better serve their user group's needs.”
None of that has changed. However, Governor Kaine is now proposing to break that trust and transfer $416,357 from the dedicated non-reverting Virginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund into the general fund in order to help cover shortfalls in the present Virginia state budget of $641,000,000.
The only way that we have to prevent this type of raid on our funds is for YOU to let Richmond know that YOU want them to honor the promise made by the Governor’s predecessors, former Secretaries of Natural Resources and the legislature. This promise is that our license money would not be transferred to the general fund.
It will take your help to get enough letters faxes and emails to the Governor and our State Senators and Delegates. You have to insist that they not break their agreements between recreational fishermen and the government regarding the dedicated nature of this fund. If the Governor and the General Assembly are successful in raiding the funds this year then probably we will see more raids on OUR fund in the future.
According to the code of Virginia section 28.2-302.3, the Fund and the interest on the fund shall not revert to the general fund. The Fund is financed from the sale of Saltwater Fishing Licenses. The Fund is to be used solely for the purposes of conserving and enhancing finfish species take by recreational anglers, improving recreational fishing opportunities, administrating the Virginia Saltwater Sport Fishing Tournament certificates program, obtaining necessary data and conducting research for fisheries management, and conducting research for fisheries management. Since inception of the legislation in 1992 creating the Fund, $27,367,369.00 has been raised from the sale of Saltwater Fishing Licenses to recreational anglers.
http://vbsf.ipbhost.com/index.php?showtopic=11339
CCA Virginia Alert-Governor Kaine raid on VSRFDF Funds
In 2004 CCA Virginia asked you to contact Governor Warner using these words
“CCA supported legislation this year to allow the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) to increase license and permit fees levied for recreational and commercial fishing. A citizens committee developed the parameters for the legislation. CCA volunteers participated on the committee. The committee felt that it was important that any fee increases be equitable and also felt that it was critical that the proceeds of such fee increases stay in the dedicated recreational and commercial license funds and not be used to replace general funds. Further they felt that both of these dedicated funds need additional money in order to better serve their user group's needs.”
None of that has changed. However, Governor Kaine is now proposing to break that trust and transfer $416,357 from the dedicated non-reverting Virginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund into the general fund in order to help cover shortfalls in the present Virginia state budget of $641,000,000.
The only way that we have to prevent this type of raid on our funds is for YOU to let Richmond know that YOU want them to honor the promise made by the Governor’s predecessors, former Secretaries of Natural Resources and the legislature. This promise is that our license money would not be transferred to the general fund.
It will take your help to get enough letters faxes and emails to the Governor and our State Senators and Delegates. You have to insist that they not break their agreements between recreational fishermen and the government regarding the dedicated nature of this fund. If the Governor and the General Assembly are successful in raiding the funds this year then probably we will see more raids on OUR fund in the future.
According to the code of Virginia section 28.2-302.3, the Fund and the interest on the fund shall not revert to the general fund. The Fund is financed from the sale of Saltwater Fishing Licenses. The Fund is to be used solely for the purposes of conserving and enhancing finfish species take by recreational anglers, improving recreational fishing opportunities, administrating the Virginia Saltwater Sport Fishing Tournament certificates program, obtaining necessary data and conducting research for fisheries management, and conducting research for fisheries management. Since inception of the legislation in 1992 creating the Fund, $27,367,369.00 has been raised from the sale of Saltwater Fishing Licenses to recreational anglers.
If he can't manage the states money he doesn't need to screw with out money
Sent my email out yesterday. This guy has done everything he can to stick it to honest hard working people since he got into office! Theres an old saying, In doing what you think is right, you fail to do the right thing! 
Can Allen get reelected?
I just noticed this topic so I haven't yet had a chance to write something to send to Gov Kaine but you can bet I will. Thanks Don for keeping us informed and thanks to all of you on this forum who take the time to send a message to the politicians that lets them know we are paying attention. I'm proud to be associated with you all.
Email him ....... http://www.governor.virginia.gov/AboutTheG...actGovernor.cfm
I voted and sent an email. Wasn't to hard. Come on VBSF'ers. Let's get this DONE! 
I voted and sent a letter. It only taked minutes. Man, I despise politicians.
Just voted and sent my nasty-gram to Timmy-boy. Wonder if I'll get a response?
QUOTE (Marlin Maniac @ Nov 15 2007, 10:32 AM)
This morning, I sent this letter to Governor Kaine. It is strongly worded, and I may feel some adverse repercussions from it but who cares. This represents my thoughts and feelings on the subject:
Dear Governor,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. I am shocked that you would propose such action.
Your consideration of this reprehensible act may have already done significant damage to any political aspirations you might have beyond the Governor's Office. Sportsmen and women will not forget. And should this evil plan be enacted, I will do everything within the confines of the law, as a private citizen and resident of the Great State of Virginia, to ensure you never work as an elected offical in or for this state again. That includes marshalling public opinion against you and anyone in the State Legislature that fails to oppose your efforts. Standing on the sidelines while the people who elected and trusted you are raped is not an option.
I realize that I am but one man, and one voice is easily lost in the din. But I have a feeling that you are about to hear the roar of thousands. And they are not so easily ignored.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider this vile action. There is absolutely no good that can come from it.
Marlin Maniac for Governor Dear Governor,
I lack the words to express the anger I feel at your plan to move funds from the Saltwater Fishing License Fund to the General Fund. Sportsman across the State of Virginia entered into a pact with the State, and agreed to the "User Fee" with the stipulation that the monies raised would go to fund fishing related projects. That is our money and you have NO RIGHT TO DIVERT IT into the black hole of the General Fund. I am shocked that you would propose such action.
Your consideration of this reprehensible act may have already done significant damage to any political aspirations you might have beyond the Governor's Office. Sportsmen and women will not forget. And should this evil plan be enacted, I will do everything within the confines of the law, as a private citizen and resident of the Great State of Virginia, to ensure you never work as an elected offical in or for this state again. That includes marshalling public opinion against you and anyone in the State Legislature that fails to oppose your efforts. Standing on the sidelines while the people who elected and trusted you are raped is not an option.
I realize that I am but one man, and one voice is easily lost in the din. But I have a feeling that you are about to hear the roar of thousands. And they are not so easily ignored.
In closing, I beg you to reconsider this vile action. There is absolutely no good that can come from it.
you got my vote 
I couldn't have said it Better
I received a response from Gov Kaine's office, It was the expected 
BS answer that a govoner needs to be able to shift funds around to cover shortfalls in the budget. I'll scan the letter and post it soon as I get the opportunity. We need to show our numbers to our elected officials 
because Kaine has apparently made up his mind.
Dave
BS answer that a govoner needs to be able to shift funds around to cover shortfalls in the budget. I'll scan the letter and post it soon as I get the opportunity. We need to show our numbers to our elected officials because Kaine has apparently made up his mind.Dave
You know when old Gov Wilder (now mayor of richmond taking Kaine place) Was the Gov. He took the Game and Inland Fisheries budget, cut it by 66% and gave the funds to inner city schools.
All of the budget for Game and inland came from boat reg. and Lic sales and fines.
History sure does repeat itself
All of the budget for Game and inland came from boat reg. and Lic sales and fines.
History sure does repeat itself
Gentlemen, anyone who views this thread should vote on the matter. Look at the mess this legislature under the leadership that this governor has made of the transportation issue. His program has not reduced violations or increased the revenue that was earmarked for road improvements
This stance on robbing the treasury should not go unnoticed, even if this turkey is only a one term catastrophe. Send a message to all of those up for re-election that this kind of thing will not go unnoticed or face the consequences of apathy.
Anybody who supports this robbery will place himself in my crosshairs at election time. Aren't you tired of this nonsense? Don't let this man assume that he will get any support if he considers running for another office. I will not let him have another chance to break any other promises or ruin any aspect of my life.
This stance on robbing the treasury should not go unnoticed, even if this turkey is only a one term catastrophe. Send a message to all of those up for re-election that this kind of thing will not go unnoticed or face the consequences of apathy.
Anybody who supports this robbery will place himself in my crosshairs at election time. Aren't you tired of this nonsense? Don't let this man assume that he will get any support if he considers running for another office. I will not let him have another chance to break any other promises or ruin any aspect of my life.
I sent an email to the Gov suggesting we call fishing licenses "general licenses"
Sanity's right...there are over 700 views on this thread...there should be that many votes! It's your money going to the wrong place...let your voice be heard!!
Don,
Not sure how "views" are counted but if each of the voters (near a hundred) checked back from time to time (like I have) it may account for the large disparity between votes and views. Either way, we have 10k registered members and only ( 1/10th of a percent have voted) The raping of the revenue generated from fishing licenses to cover inept management of the state's general fund is apparently not too important to folks. C'mon people...STAND UP AND BE HEARD!!!!!
Not sure how "views" are counted but if each of the voters (near a hundred) checked back from time to time (like I have) it may account for the large disparity between votes and views. Either way, we have 10k registered members and only ( 1/10th of a percent have voted) The raping of the revenue generated from fishing licenses to cover inept management of the state's general fund is apparently not too important to folks. C'mon people...STAND UP AND BE HEARD!!!!!
REPLY FROM GOV OFFICE
COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Governor p.o. Box 1475 Richmond, Virginia 23218
December 3, 2007
Dear ________:
Thank you for your recent correspondence pertaining to the use of saltwater recreational fishing funds to supplant general funds at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The Govemor has asked me to respond to you on his behalf as the VMRC is an agency of my secretariat.
The Governor's plan calls for the use of$416,366 from the fund, of which $379,000 is to be used for the Law Enforcement Division, and $37,367 is to be used to support the Stock Assessment Program in the Fisheries Management Division.
Let me start by saying that no govemmentalleader wishes to be confronted with a fiscal shortfall during their administration. Govemor Kaine is no different. However, once he and his budget team realized that the state would be experiencing a $641 million shortfall in the CUlTent fiscal year, he immediately took steps to cut expenditures and to explore other means to fund core services. Such was the case at VMRC.
There have been assertions made that the saltwater recreational license was designed solely for the purpose of enhancing recreational fishing in the Conm10nwealth. These observations are accurate. However, the Code of Virginia in §28.2-302.3 allows these funds to be used for "enforcing the provisions of §§ 28.2-302, 28.2-302.1, and 28.2-302.6 through 28.2*302.9 and regulations promulgated thereunder[.]" In sunm1ary, the Code allows for these funds to be used to enforce the very license requirements that generate the revenues the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund receives. The primary enforcement entity for this section is the Law Enforcement Division ofVMRC.
In 2000, when the Recreational Fishing Advisory Board was organized, the Advisory Board developed guidelines that detennined how much money was to be allocated to each sector that may request funding. At that time, the Advisory Board detem1ined that the Law Enforcement Division should receive five per cent of the funds collected an11ually for the purchase of equipment or other relevant requests. To date, the Fund has received $27,367,369.
Five per cent allocation would have been $1,368,368. The Law Enforcement Division has requested and has been allocated $605,548 as of this date. Therefore, the $416,000 that Governor Kaine is transferring from the fund for law enforcement purposes is still $346,820 short of the $762,820 the Division was entitled to under the guidelines set by the 2000 Recreational Board. In short, nothing is being taken from this fund that is not authorized by either law or established policy.
Section 28.2-302.3 of the Code of Virginia also allows for the use of Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Funds to be used to "obtain necessary data and conduct research for fisheries management," which is exactly what the Stock Assessment Department of the VMRC Fisheries Management Division does. The Governor's plan calls for an equal share from both the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund and the Marine Fishing Improvement Fund be used to support this activity.
Please be assured that Governor Kaine and I support all users of Virginia's waterways and other wonderful natural resources. However, in this difficult time, very tough decisions need to be made to ensure that Virginia's government remains fiscally sound.
L. Preston Bryant, Ir.
COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Governor p.o. Box 1475 Richmond, Virginia 23218
December 3, 2007
Dear ________:
Thank you for your recent correspondence pertaining to the use of saltwater recreational fishing funds to supplant general funds at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The Govemor has asked me to respond to you on his behalf as the VMRC is an agency of my secretariat.
The Governor's plan calls for the use of$416,366 from the fund, of which $379,000 is to be used for the Law Enforcement Division, and $37,367 is to be used to support the Stock Assessment Program in the Fisheries Management Division.
Let me start by saying that no govemmentalleader wishes to be confronted with a fiscal shortfall during their administration. Govemor Kaine is no different. However, once he and his budget team realized that the state would be experiencing a $641 million shortfall in the CUlTent fiscal year, he immediately took steps to cut expenditures and to explore other means to fund core services. Such was the case at VMRC.
There have been assertions made that the saltwater recreational license was designed solely for the purpose of enhancing recreational fishing in the Conm10nwealth. These observations are accurate. However, the Code of Virginia in §28.2-302.3 allows these funds to be used for "enforcing the provisions of §§ 28.2-302, 28.2-302.1, and 28.2-302.6 through 28.2*302.9 and regulations promulgated thereunder[.]" In sunm1ary, the Code allows for these funds to be used to enforce the very license requirements that generate the revenues the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund receives. The primary enforcement entity for this section is the Law Enforcement Division ofVMRC.
In 2000, when the Recreational Fishing Advisory Board was organized, the Advisory Board developed guidelines that detennined how much money was to be allocated to each sector that may request funding. At that time, the Advisory Board detem1ined that the Law Enforcement Division should receive five per cent of the funds collected an11ually for the purchase of equipment or other relevant requests. To date, the Fund has received $27,367,369.
Five per cent allocation would have been $1,368,368. The Law Enforcement Division has requested and has been allocated $605,548 as of this date. Therefore, the $416,000 that Governor Kaine is transferring from the fund for law enforcement purposes is still $346,820 short of the $762,820 the Division was entitled to under the guidelines set by the 2000 Recreational Board. In short, nothing is being taken from this fund that is not authorized by either law or established policy.
Section 28.2-302.3 of the Code of Virginia also allows for the use of Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Funds to be used to "obtain necessary data and conduct research for fisheries management," which is exactly what the Stock Assessment Department of the VMRC Fisheries Management Division does. The Governor's plan calls for an equal share from both the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund and the Marine Fishing Improvement Fund be used to support this activity.
Please be assured that Governor Kaine and I support all users of Virginia's waterways and other wonderful natural resources. However, in this difficult time, very tough decisions need to be made to ensure that Virginia's government remains fiscally sound.
L. Preston Bryant, Ir.
QUOTE (vbsfipb @ Dec 7 2007, 07:01 PM)
REPLY FROM GOV OFFICE
COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Governor p.o. Box 1475 Richmond, Virginia 23218
December 3, 2007
Dear ________:
Thank you for your recent correspondence pertaining to the use of saltwater recreational fishing funds to supplant general funds at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The Govemor has asked me to respond to you on his behalf as the VMRC is an agency of my secretariat.
The Governor's plan calls for the use of$416,366 from the fund, of which $379,000 is to be used for the Law Enforcement Division, and $37,367 is to be used to support the Stock Assessment Program in the Fisheries Management Division.
Let me start by saying that no govemmentalleader wishes to be confronted with a fiscal shortfall during their administration. Govemor Kaine is no different. However, once he and his budget team realized that the state would be experiencing a $641 million shortfall in the CUlTent fiscal year, he immediately took steps to cut expenditures and to explore other means to fund core services. Such was the case at VMRC.
There have been assertions made that the saltwater recreational license was designed solely for the purpose of enhancing recreational fishing in the Conm10nwealth. These observations are accurate. However, the Code of Virginia in §28.2-302.3 allows these funds to be used for "enforcing the provisions of §§ 28.2-302, 28.2-302.1, and 28.2-302.6 through 28.2*302.9 and regulations promulgated thereunder[.]" In sunm1ary, the Code allows for these funds to be used to enforce the very license requirements that generate the revenues the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund receives. The primary enforcement entity for this section is the Law Enforcement Division ofVMRC.
In 2000, when the Recreational Fishing Advisory Board was organized, the Advisory Board developed guidelines that detennined how much money was to be allocated to each sector that may request funding. At that time, the Advisory Board detem1ined that the Law Enforcement Division should receive five per cent of the funds collected an11ually for the purchase of equipment or other relevant requests. To date, the Fund has received $27,367,369.
Five per cent allocation would have been $1,368,368. The Law Enforcement Division has requested and has been allocated $605,548 as of this date. Therefore, the $416,000 that Governor Kaine is transferring from the fund for law enforcement purposes is still $346,820 short of the $762,820 the Division was entitled to under the guidelines set by the 2000 Recreational Board. In short, nothing is being taken from this fund that is not authorized by either law or established policy.
Section 28.2-302.3 of the Code of Virginia also allows for the use of Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Funds to be used to "obtain necessary data and conduct research for fisheries management," which is exactly what the Stock Assessment Department of the VMRC Fisheries Management Division does. The Governor's plan calls for an equal share from both the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund and the Marine Fishing Improvement Fund be used to support this activity.
Please be assured that Governor Kaine and I support all users of Virginia's waterways and other wonderful natural resources. However, in this difficult time, very tough decisions need to be made to ensure that Virginia's government remains fiscally sound.
L. Preston Bryant, Ir.
COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Governor p.o. Box 1475 Richmond, Virginia 23218
December 3, 2007
Dear ________:
Thank you for your recent correspondence pertaining to the use of saltwater recreational fishing funds to supplant general funds at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The Govemor has asked me to respond to you on his behalf as the VMRC is an agency of my secretariat.
The Governor's plan calls for the use of$416,366 from the fund, of which $379,000 is to be used for the Law Enforcement Division, and $37,367 is to be used to support the Stock Assessment Program in the Fisheries Management Division.
Let me start by saying that no govemmentalleader wishes to be confronted with a fiscal shortfall during their administration. Govemor Kaine is no different. However, once he and his budget team realized that the state would be experiencing a $641 million shortfall in the CUlTent fiscal year, he immediately took steps to cut expenditures and to explore other means to fund core services. Such was the case at VMRC.
There have been assertions made that the saltwater recreational license was designed solely for the purpose of enhancing recreational fishing in the Conm10nwealth. These observations are accurate. However, the Code of Virginia in §28.2-302.3 allows these funds to be used for "enforcing the provisions of §§ 28.2-302, 28.2-302.1, and 28.2-302.6 through 28.2*302.9 and regulations promulgated thereunder[.]" In sunm1ary, the Code allows for these funds to be used to enforce the very license requirements that generate the revenues the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund receives. The primary enforcement entity for this section is the Law Enforcement Division ofVMRC.
In 2000, when the Recreational Fishing Advisory Board was organized, the Advisory Board developed guidelines that detennined how much money was to be allocated to each sector that may request funding. At that time, the Advisory Board detem1ined that the Law Enforcement Division should receive five per cent of the funds collected an11ually for the purchase of equipment or other relevant requests. To date, the Fund has received $27,367,369.
Five per cent allocation would have been $1,368,368. The Law Enforcement Division has requested and has been allocated $605,548 as of this date. Therefore, the $416,000 that Governor Kaine is transferring from the fund for law enforcement purposes is still $346,820 short of the $762,820 the Division was entitled to under the guidelines set by the 2000 Recreational Board. In short, nothing is being taken from this fund that is not authorized by either law or established policy.
Section 28.2-302.3 of the Code of Virginia also allows for the use of Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Funds to be used to "obtain necessary data and conduct research for fisheries management," which is exactly what the Stock Assessment Department of the VMRC Fisheries Management Division does. The Governor's plan calls for an equal share from both the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund and the Marine Fishing Improvement Fund be used to support this activity.
Please be assured that Governor Kaine and I support all users of Virginia's waterways and other wonderful natural resources. However, in this difficult time, very tough decisions need to be made to ensure that Virginia's government remains fiscally sound.
L. Preston Bryant, Ir.
Yeah, well, a few points come to mind here:
1. Just because it's legal doesn't mean it's right.
2. If this response is verbatim from the actual response, then this man needs to go back to school. It's obvious he failed spelling. Wonder where he went to school? And, I, for one, do not see how this blatant display of uneducated rhetoric has any place in our government.
3. No mention of what other options were open to find the money to cover the shortfall, such as cutting his salary or the great governor's.
[quote=Volunteer,Dec 10 2007, 01:17 PM][quote=vbsfipb,Dec 7 2007, 07:01 PM]REPLY FROM GOV OFFICE
COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Governor p.o. Box 1475 Richmond, Virginia 23218
December 3, 2007
Dear ________:
Thank you for your recent correspondence pertaining to the use of saltwater recreational fishing funds to supplant general funds at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The Govemor has asked me to respond to you on his behalf as the VMRC is an agency of my secretariat.
The Governor's plan calls for the use of$416,366 from the fund, of which $379,000 is to be used for the Law Enforcement Division, and $37,367 is to be used to support the Stock Assessment Program in the Fisheries Management Division.
Let me start by saying that no govemmentalleader wishes to be confronted with a fiscal shortfall during their administration. Govemor Kaine is no different. However, once he and his budget team realized that the state would be experiencing a $641 million shortfall in the CUlTent fiscal year, he immediately took steps to cut expenditures and to explore other means to fund core services. Such was the case at VMRC.
There have been assertions made that the saltwater recreational license was designed solely for the purpose of enhancing recreational fishing in the Conm10nwealth. These observations are accurate. However, the Code of Virginia in §28.2-302.3 allows these funds to be used for "enforcing the provisions of §§ 28.2-302, 28.2-302.1, and 28.2-302.6 through 28.2*302.9 and regulations promulgated thereunder[.]" In sunm1ary, the Code allows for these funds to be used to enforce the very license requirements that generate the revenues the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund receives. The primary enforcement entity for this section is the Law Enforcement Division ofVMRC.
In 2000, when the Recreational Fishing Advisory Board was organized, the Advisory Board developed guidelines that detennined how much money was to be allocated to each sector that may request funding. At that time, the Advisory Board detem1ined that the Law Enforcement Division should receive five per cent of the funds collected an11ually for the purchase of equipment or other relevant requests. To date, the Fund has received $27,367,369.
Five per cent allocation would have been $1,368,368. The Law Enforcement Division has requested and has been allocated $605,548 as of this date. Therefore, the $416,000 that Governor Kaine is transferring from the fund for law enforcement purposes is still $346,820 short of the $762,820 the Division was entitled to under the guidelines set by the 2000 Recreational Board. In short, nothing is being taken from this fund that is not authorized by either law or established policy.
Section 28.2-302.3 of the Code of Virginia also allows for the use of Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Funds to be used to "obtain necessary data and conduct research for fisheries management," which is exactly what the Stock Assessment Department of the VMRC Fisheries Management Division does. The Governor's plan calls for an equal share from both the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund and the Marine Fishing Improvement Fund be used to support this activity.
Please be assured that Governor Kaine and I support all users of Virginia's waterways and other wonderful natural resources. However, in this difficult time, very tough decisions need to be made to ensure that Virginia's government remains fiscally sound.
L. Preston Bryant, Ir.
[/quote]
Yeah, well, a few points come to mind here:
1. Just because it's legal doesn't mean it's right.
2. If this response is verbatim from the actual response, then this man needs to go back to school. It's obvious he failed spelling. Wonder where he went to school? And, I, for one, do not see how this blatant display of uneducated rhetoric has any place in our government.
3. No mention of what other options were open to find the money to cover the shortfall, such as cutting his salary or the great governor's.
[/quote]
The spelling issue may have arrived due to the retype of the original document by vbsfish. I may be wrong, but there are more people fishing now then ever, and the fish stocks are becoming more important to manage and protect. But I can assure you that more moneys will be needed to study and police the fishery in the future. Expect higher fees, more police, and more groups asking to measure your fish as part of some study, only instead of volunteering the information, we will be obligated. Just take some time and read the literature on the ordeal that recreational and commercial angles up north (New Jersey) have to endure. Those poor guys can’t cast a line without at least three different agencies watch there every move from afar. So… I suggest we educate ourselves with the implications of our actions and get involved with protecting our right to fish and the right to preserve the fishery for our children. I say “Vote or get off the boat.”
COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Governor p.o. Box 1475 Richmond, Virginia 23218
December 3, 2007
Dear ________:
Thank you for your recent correspondence pertaining to the use of saltwater recreational fishing funds to supplant general funds at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The Govemor has asked me to respond to you on his behalf as the VMRC is an agency of my secretariat.
The Governor's plan calls for the use of$416,366 from the fund, of which $379,000 is to be used for the Law Enforcement Division, and $37,367 is to be used to support the Stock Assessment Program in the Fisheries Management Division.
Let me start by saying that no govemmentalleader wishes to be confronted with a fiscal shortfall during their administration. Govemor Kaine is no different. However, once he and his budget team realized that the state would be experiencing a $641 million shortfall in the CUlTent fiscal year, he immediately took steps to cut expenditures and to explore other means to fund core services. Such was the case at VMRC.
There have been assertions made that the saltwater recreational license was designed solely for the purpose of enhancing recreational fishing in the Conm10nwealth. These observations are accurate. However, the Code of Virginia in §28.2-302.3 allows these funds to be used for "enforcing the provisions of §§ 28.2-302, 28.2-302.1, and 28.2-302.6 through 28.2*302.9 and regulations promulgated thereunder[.]" In sunm1ary, the Code allows for these funds to be used to enforce the very license requirements that generate the revenues the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund receives. The primary enforcement entity for this section is the Law Enforcement Division ofVMRC.
In 2000, when the Recreational Fishing Advisory Board was organized, the Advisory Board developed guidelines that detennined how much money was to be allocated to each sector that may request funding. At that time, the Advisory Board detem1ined that the Law Enforcement Division should receive five per cent of the funds collected an11ually for the purchase of equipment or other relevant requests. To date, the Fund has received $27,367,369.
Five per cent allocation would have been $1,368,368. The Law Enforcement Division has requested and has been allocated $605,548 as of this date. Therefore, the $416,000 that Governor Kaine is transferring from the fund for law enforcement purposes is still $346,820 short of the $762,820 the Division was entitled to under the guidelines set by the 2000 Recreational Board. In short, nothing is being taken from this fund that is not authorized by either law or established policy.
Section 28.2-302.3 of the Code of Virginia also allows for the use of Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Funds to be used to "obtain necessary data and conduct research for fisheries management," which is exactly what the Stock Assessment Department of the VMRC Fisheries Management Division does. The Governor's plan calls for an equal share from both the Saltwater Recreational Fishing Development Fund and the Marine Fishing Improvement Fund be used to support this activity.
Please be assured that Governor Kaine and I support all users of Virginia's waterways and other wonderful natural resources. However, in this difficult time, very tough decisions need to be made to ensure that Virginia's government remains fiscally sound.
L. Preston Bryant, Ir.
[/quote]
Yeah, well, a few points come to mind here:
1. Just because it's legal doesn't mean it's right.
2. If this response is verbatim from the actual response, then this man needs to go back to school. It's obvious he failed spelling. Wonder where he went to school? And, I, for one, do not see how this blatant display of uneducated rhetoric has any place in our government.
3. No mention of what other options were open to find the money to cover the shortfall, such as cutting his salary or the great governor's.
[/quote]
The spelling issue may have arrived due to the retype of the original document by vbsfish. I may be wrong, but there are more people fishing now then ever, and the fish stocks are becoming more important to manage and protect. But I can assure you that more moneys will be needed to study and police the fishery in the future. Expect higher fees, more police, and more groups asking to measure your fish as part of some study, only instead of volunteering the information, we will be obligated. Just take some time and read the literature on the ordeal that recreational and commercial angles up north (New Jersey) have to endure. Those poor guys can’t cast a line without at least three different agencies watch there every move from afar. So… I suggest we educate ourselves with the implications of our actions and get involved with protecting our right to fish and the right to preserve the fishery for our children. I say “Vote or get off the boat.”
I hate to be devil's advocate here, but with a $600+ million shortfall, the money needs to come from somewhere. Yes, I do not like that it is coming from the license fees, but where else do you suggest we find the money? Maybe we can get Gilmore back. I'm sure there's another asinine platform for him to run on. I won't get started on the now defunct car tax.
The last time I checked, the Governor does not lead the General Assembly. Those collective morons have done more than enough on their own. The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Off my soapbox now.
QUOTE (Sanity @ Dec 6 2007, 09:45 PM)
Look at the mess this legislature under the leadership that this governor has made of the transportation issue. His program has not reduced violations or increased the revenue that was earmarked for road improvements.
The last time I checked, the Governor does not lead the General Assembly. Those collective morons have done more than enough on their own. The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Off my soapbox now.
[quote=mricks23,Dec 11 2007, 09:21 AM]
I hate to be devil's advocate here, but with a $600+ million shortfall, the money needs to come from somewhere.
With this reasoning, can I expect that when my money is given to an investment broker with the agreement that it be put to use for my benefit that he can go ahead and use some of my money to cover losses elswere due to mismanagement of another person's account?
Yes, I do not like that it is coming from the license fees, but where else do you suggest we find the money?
Your right...it stinks that he is using money intended for one purpose and moving it over to cover inept management of other funds. Maybe your right. The best course of action may be to throw our hands in the air and say "Oh well." What would be really cool is to see what kind of reaction we would get if money that was earmarked for education or social services was used to build a whole bunch of fishing piers and boat ramps (maybe even a casino or two). Not that I advocate this behavior but the example is given to point out that the government has mismanaged the general fund worse than my 9 yr old son could ever hope to mismanage a dollar and they want to pull from another pot of money to allow the inept management to continue.
The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Maybe he should use his rigid spine and admit that what he is doing is wrong. As well, a rigid spine goes a long way toward standing up to lobbyists and socialist wanking so that he can impress upon the assembly (that's right, I didn't capitalize it) the importance of a balanced budget. If he and the other chuckleheads up there did manage the budget properly and avoided the deficit they have right now, they would never be in this situation. I need to get going, I spent too much money fishing this month so I need to don a mask and rob my neighbor...better yet, I think I will just take the money from that pile I set aside to feed my family this month (I'm sure they will understand and not say anything about it.
Rant over.
--Brett
I hate to be devil's advocate here, but with a $600+ million shortfall, the money needs to come from somewhere.
With this reasoning, can I expect that when my money is given to an investment broker with the agreement that it be put to use for my benefit that he can go ahead and use some of my money to cover losses elswere due to mismanagement of another person's account?
Yes, I do not like that it is coming from the license fees, but where else do you suggest we find the money?
Your right...it stinks that he is using money intended for one purpose and moving it over to cover inept management of other funds. Maybe your right. The best course of action may be to throw our hands in the air and say "Oh well." What would be really cool is to see what kind of reaction we would get if money that was earmarked for education or social services was used to build a whole bunch of fishing piers and boat ramps (maybe even a casino or two). Not that I advocate this behavior but the example is given to point out that the government has mismanaged the general fund worse than my 9 yr old son could ever hope to mismanage a dollar and they want to pull from another pot of money to allow the inept management to continue.
The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Maybe he should use his rigid spine and admit that what he is doing is wrong. As well, a rigid spine goes a long way toward standing up to lobbyists and socialist wanking so that he can impress upon the assembly (that's right, I didn't capitalize it) the importance of a balanced budget. If he and the other chuckleheads up there did manage the budget properly and avoided the deficit they have right now, they would never be in this situation. I need to get going, I spent too much money fishing this month so I need to don a mask and rob my neighbor...better yet, I think I will just take the money from that pile I set aside to feed my family this month (I'm sure they will understand and not say anything about it.
Rant over.
--Brett
[quote=Knot Too Fast,Dec 11 2007, 01:50 PM]
[quote=mricks23,Dec 11 2007, 09:21 AM]
I hate to be devil's advocate here, but with a $600+ million shortfall, the money needs to come from somewhere.
With this reasoning, can I expect that when my money is given to an investment broker with the agreement that it be put to use for my benefit that he can go ahead and use some of my money to cover losses elswere due to mismanagement of another person's account?
Yes, I do not like that it is coming from the license fees, but where else do you suggest we find the money?
Your right...it stinks that he is using money intended for one purpose and moving it over to cover inept management of other funds. Maybe your right. The best course of action may be to throw our hands in the air and say "Oh well." What would be really cool is to see what kind of reaction we would get if money that was earmarked for education or social services was used to build a whole bunch of fishing piers and boat ramps (maybe even a casino or two). Not that I advocate this behavior but the example is given to point out that the government has mismanaged the general fund worse than my 9 yr old son could ever hope to mismanage a dollar and they want to pull from another pot of money to allow the inept management to continue.
The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Maybe he should use his rigid spine and admit that what he is doing is wrong. As well, a rigid spine goes a long way toward standing up to lobbyists and socialist wanking so that he can impress upon the assembly (that's right, I didn't capitalize it) the importance of a balanced budget. If he and the other chuckleheads up there did manage the budget properly and avoided the deficit they have right now, they would never be in this situation. I need to get going, I spent too much money fishing this month so I need to don a mask and rob my neighbor...better yet, I think I will just take the money from that pile I set aside to feed my family this month (I'm sure they will understand and not say anything about it.
Rant over.
--Brett
[/quote]
[quote=mricks23,Dec 11 2007, 09:21 AM]
I hate to be devil's advocate here, but with a $600+ million shortfall, the money needs to come from somewhere.
With this reasoning, can I expect that when my money is given to an investment broker with the agreement that it be put to use for my benefit that he can go ahead and use some of my money to cover losses elswere due to mismanagement of another person's account?
Yes, I do not like that it is coming from the license fees, but where else do you suggest we find the money?
Your right...it stinks that he is using money intended for one purpose and moving it over to cover inept management of other funds. Maybe your right. The best course of action may be to throw our hands in the air and say "Oh well." What would be really cool is to see what kind of reaction we would get if money that was earmarked for education or social services was used to build a whole bunch of fishing piers and boat ramps (maybe even a casino or two). Not that I advocate this behavior but the example is given to point out that the government has mismanaged the general fund worse than my 9 yr old son could ever hope to mismanage a dollar and they want to pull from another pot of money to allow the inept management to continue.
The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Maybe he should use his rigid spine and admit that what he is doing is wrong. As well, a rigid spine goes a long way toward standing up to lobbyists and socialist wanking so that he can impress upon the assembly (that's right, I didn't capitalize it) the importance of a balanced budget. If he and the other chuckleheads up there did manage the budget properly and avoided the deficit they have right now, they would never be in this situation. I need to get going, I spent too much money fishing this month so I need to don a mask and rob my neighbor...better yet, I think I will just take the money from that pile I set aside to feed my family this month (I'm sure they will understand and not say anything about it.
Rant over.
--Brett
[/quote]
[quote=Knot Too Fast,Dec 11 2007, 12:50 PM]
[quote=mricks23,Dec 11 2007, 09:21 AM]
I hate to be devil's advocate here, but with a $600+ million shortfall, the money needs to come from somewhere.
With this reasoning, can I expect that when my money is given to an investment broker with the agreement that it be put to use for my benefit that he can go ahead and use some of my money to cover losses elswere due to mismanagement of another person's account?
Yes, I do not like that it is coming from the license fees, but where else do you suggest we find the money?
Your right...it stinks that he is using money intended for one purpose and moving it over to cover inept management of other funds. Maybe your right. The best course of action may be to throw our hands in the air and say "Oh well." What would be really cool is to see what kind of reaction we would get if money that was earmarked for education or social services was used to build a whole bunch of fishing piers and boat ramps (maybe even a casino or two). Not that I advocate this behavior but the example is given to point out that the government has mismanaged the general fund worse than my 9 yr old son could ever hope to mismanage a dollar and they want to pull from another pot of money to allow the inept management to continue.
The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Maybe he should use his rigid spine and admit that what he is doing is wrong. As well, a rigid spine goes a long way toward standing up to lobbyists and socialist wanking so that he can impress upon the assembly (that's right, I didn't capitalize it) the importance of a balanced budget. If he and the other chuckleheads up there did manage the budget properly and avoided the deficit they have right now, they would never be in this situation. I need to get going, I spent too much money fishing this month so I need to don a mask and rob my neighbor...better yet, I think I will just take the money from that pile I set aside to feed my family this month (I'm sure they will understand and not say anything about it.
Rant over.
--Brett
[/quote]
I'm speechless
[quote=mricks23,Dec 11 2007, 09:21 AM]
I hate to be devil's advocate here, but with a $600+ million shortfall, the money needs to come from somewhere.
With this reasoning, can I expect that when my money is given to an investment broker with the agreement that it be put to use for my benefit that he can go ahead and use some of my money to cover losses elswere due to mismanagement of another person's account?
Yes, I do not like that it is coming from the license fees, but where else do you suggest we find the money?
Your right...it stinks that he is using money intended for one purpose and moving it over to cover inept management of other funds. Maybe your right. The best course of action may be to throw our hands in the air and say "Oh well." What would be really cool is to see what kind of reaction we would get if money that was earmarked for education or social services was used to build a whole bunch of fishing piers and boat ramps (maybe even a casino or two). Not that I advocate this behavior but the example is given to point out that the government has mismanaged the general fund worse than my 9 yr old son could ever hope to mismanage a dollar and they want to pull from another pot of money to allow the inept management to continue.
The Governor did sign the bill into law. I'm still not sure if I agree with it, but at least he stood behind his actions unlike some of the spineless lawmakers that wanted to retract their votes after the public outcry over the legislation.
Maybe he should use his rigid spine and admit that what he is doing is wrong. As well, a rigid spine goes a long way toward standing up to lobbyists and socialist wanking so that he can impress upon the assembly (that's right, I didn't capitalize it) the importance of a balanced budget. If he and the other chuckleheads up there did manage the budget properly and avoided the deficit they have right now, they would never be in this situation. I need to get going, I spent too much money fishing this month so I need to don a mask and rob my neighbor...better yet, I think I will just take the money from that pile I set aside to feed my family this month (I'm sure they will understand and not say anything about it.
Rant over.
--Brett
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I'm speechless
Just added my two cents to the Gov's e-mail. Sent this and it only took a couple of minutes.
As an avid fisherman, voter and tax payer to the state of Virginia. I am asking you to reconsider your position on diverting the funds collected from salt water lecense fees. Anglers across this state are willing to pay these fees to maintian, protect and improve our fishing oportunities. Knowing that they will to be used for our sport. I am requesting that you please do not take our good faith offerings to cover other short falls in the budget. This "robbing Peter to pay Paul" will only lead to mistrust and public outcry in the fishing community. Thank you in advance for your consideration in this matter.
Hopefully we can stop this train wreck!
As an avid fisherman, voter and tax payer to the state of Virginia. I am asking you to reconsider your position on diverting the funds collected from salt water lecense fees. Anglers across this state are willing to pay these fees to maintian, protect and improve our fishing oportunities. Knowing that they will to be used for our sport. I am requesting that you please do not take our good faith offerings to cover other short falls in the budget. This "robbing Peter to pay Paul" will only lead to mistrust and public outcry in the fishing community. Thank you in advance for your consideration in this matter.
Hopefully we can stop this train wreck!
Mricks, when I see my left arm about to do something stupid, I let my right arm cancel the action so it doesn't bring the body or mind into peril.
Mr. Bush doesn't seem to mind vetoing anything....no matter how popular or unpopular it is. I don't think it is a matter of "spine"....but of "hindsight"....with heavy emphasis on the "hind" part of that body.
I don't use soapboxes.....I use the "contents".....the cleansing power is more effective. In the case of the legislature, an enema, though distasteful, has a certain appeal.
Mr. Bush doesn't seem to mind vetoing anything....no matter how popular or unpopular it is. I don't think it is a matter of "spine"....but of "hindsight"....with heavy emphasis on the "hind" part of that body.
I don't use soapboxes.....I use the "contents".....the cleansing power is more effective. In the case of the legislature, an enema, though distasteful, has a certain appeal.
One way to save state money is to not pay for studies that can be figured out by commmon sense...for example. The state funded a study to determine why the Blackwater River flooded during a hurricane...DUH...too much rain. Take a class and fill it with water. Now add more water and look what happens...table floods. There I just saved the state 100's of thousands of dollars.
And where is the water going to go? Were does all the water end up? What elevation enhances flood control? How many and how deep should run-off creeks be to protect future project that are to be built? Would future sites have an inverse effect? Could it be diverted? If controlled, what species would suffer if there were no more floods? How about your common sense for these questions…were is your proof when determining what to legislate and what to prioritize when dealing with politics, conservation, and economics.
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