E-Newsletter

First Quarter Wrap Up & ‘State Legislative Veto’ Amendment

During my years as Majority Leader in the Virginia House of Delegates it became clear that for too long states have faced costly federal mandates and burdensome regulations. For the most part, the states have had no choice but to comply. Recently, I introduced H.J. Res 46, a constitutional amendment that would empower a supermajority of the states to void any federal law or regulation – essentially creating a ‘state legislative veto.’ Repeal would require the consensus of two-thirds of state legislatures. I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you that this was an idea that percolated up from this year’s House of Delegates where a bill, HJR 542, passed at the encouragement of Speaker Bill Howell.

Article V of the Constitution allows two-thirds of state legislatures to propose changes to the Constitution by way of a Convention. Since that mechanism exists for changes to the Constitution, why shouldn’t states have a weapon regarding overreaching federal laws and regulations? The way I see it, if states feel a certain law or executive branch regulation is too onerous, they ought to be able to override Washington. If two-thirds of the states wanted to repeal ObamaCare, they could take that option under H.J. Res 46.

On March 31st, the first quarter of 2011 came to a close. It’s been a busy three months. Since January, I have set up offices and am holding satellite office hours all across the 9th District. In the House, I have introduced legislation, participated in Energy and Commerce hearings on regulating greenhouse gases and climate change as well as health care, including oversight on those parts of ObamaCare already in place. I have also cosponsored numerous bills, including the repeals of ObamaCare and the 1099 mandate.

I’m proud to announce that during my first quarter in office, I was in every county and city in the 9th District. During my travels in the District, I had the opportunity to attend many events from speaking at the Energy Technology Summit in Wise County and celebrating the Buchanan County Chamber of Commerce’s 75th anniversary to touring the Lee Federal Prison and the Celanese Plant in Giles County. Whether I was visiting a furniture factory in Galax or participating in an assembly with students at Craig County High School, I got to spend valuable time hearing directly from my constituents. I was especially thrilled this week to visit with parents and students from Floyd Elementary School on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. I’m looking forward to visiting more constituents and communities in the District in the weeks and months to come.

During my travels, I was encouraged by companies like Joy Mining Machinery who are creating jobs and investing in the community. I also saw many local industries that are struggling to stay above water and are overwhelmed by onerous government regulations. It’s clear that there is much work to be done in Washington. As the House continues to work on commonsense solutions to our nation’s fiscal and regulatory ailments, I look forward to playing an active role in the conversation and making sure the voices of my constituents are heard.

As your representative in Congress, I want to you hear from you. If you have concerns or wish to inquire about legislative issues, feel free to contact my offices. To reach my office via email, please visit my website at www.morgangriffith.house.gov. You may also reach my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671.