Delegate Matt Fariss

Last Thursday, the Governor released and signed Executive Order 50, Executive Action to Prevent Gun Violence. The details to the order can be found here-https://governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/newsarticle?articleId=13032

 Unfortunately with this order, I feel that this will only take a means of protection away from law abiding citizens. When the Governor visited Appomattox this morning, he had armed personnel with him, as he should. But, in telling law abiding citizens that they cannot carry a gun to protect themselves, I find it very near sighted and I hope he does not feel his life is more precious than the rest of the law abiding citizens in Virginia. As compared to our Governor, as much time as he spends in state buildings, I would want as many law abiding citizens carrying a gun as possible. Because, when a person has decided to break the law and harm someone, they surely do not care where it is or what building it is taking place in. However, they are more likely to pick places they will not be threatened by law abiding citizens or law enforcement with guns.

“For years, we have consistently said the best way to keep Virginians safe is to enforce the existing law,” said House Speaker William J Howell. The Virginia Assembly will continue to observe the effort of the task force. The Governor’s policy of firearms does not apply to the State Capitol of the General Assembly Building. “Most importantly, the House of Delegates will continue to focus on investing in mental and behavioral health care improvements that will have a meaningful impact on individual’s lives and our communities as a whole.” This policy will most definitely be reviewed during the 2016 legislative session and I plan to take the appropriate action to protect the rights of law abiding citizens in my district and across the state.

On Friday, the Governor came to Appomattox to make an Economic Development Announcement. Xpress Natural Gas will take up residency in the Appomattox Center for Business and Commerce, investing $7.8 million to establish a natural gas supply operation. This will bring 50 jobs to the district. I am very glad to welcome Xpress Natural Gas to Appomattox County. It is very exciting to have new jobs to the area, along with a new availability of natural gas to this region. I believe this is a win-win for everyone, and I am happy to have them as a part of the district.

If you have any concerns, questions, comments or issues that I or my Aide, Jenna, can help you with, please contact us at (434)821-5929 or email at [email protected]

Thank You!