GOVERNOR
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 1 (2010)
Establishing the Chief Job Creation Officer and the Governor's Economic Development and Job Creation Commission
Importance of the Issue
Economic opportunity and free enterprise is the bedrock of a stable and prosperous Commonwealth. Virginia is home to abundant resources, fiscal responsibility and boundless human potential, and the entrepreneurial spirit is evident throughout this great Commonwealth. However, in light of the unprecedented economic difficulties facing Virginia families and business, the unacceptable high unemployment rate, and the ever increasing competiveness of the global economy, bold and innovative ideas are necessary for the Commonwealth to address this significant challenge. The following measures are the first crucial steps to promoting economic recovery and job creation in Virginia.
Chief Job Creation Officer
By virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor under Article V of the Constitution of Virginia and under the laws of the Commonwealth, and subject to my continuing and ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters, there is hereby established the position of Chief Job Creation Officer within the Office of the Governor, whose primary responsibilities will be to help coordinate all economic and workforce development and job creation initiatives across the cabinet secretariats and their respective agencies; actively assist with recruiting new industries and job creation opportunities in the Commonwealth; oversee and ensure that all agencies are working together in a coordinated, focused and efficient manner to attract new business, expand existing businesses, and create jobs across the Commonwealth; and all other duties and responsibilities as determined and assigned by the Governor.
The Chief Job Creation Officer shall serve as and be a member of the Governor's Cabinet, and shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor for a term coincident with that of the Governor making the appointment or until a successor is appointed.
Governor's Economic Development and Job Creation Commission
In furtherance of my commitment to economic development and job creation in the Commonwealth, and by virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor under Article V of the Constitution of Virginia and under the laws of the Commonwealth, including but not limited to Section 2.2-134 of the Code of Virginia, and subject to my continuing and ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters, I hereby establish the Governor's Economic Development and Job Creation Commission ("Commission") and direct it to begin work immediately.
The Lieutenant Governor, as the Chief Job Creation Officer, shall serve as Co-Chairman of the Commission along with a senior level advisor appointed by the Governor. The Commission shall include the Secretaries of Commerce and Trade, Agriculture and Forestry, Natural Resources, Transportation, Technology, Finance, Education and Administration, or their designees. The Commission shall also include up to 50 citizens of Virginia representing a cross segment of industry and business sectors, including small and rural businesses. All agencies, as deemed necessary by the Chief Job Creation Officer, shall participate and provide assistance as requested. In addition, I reserve the authority to designate any other such citizens as I deem appropriate to sit on the Commission.
The Commission shall have the following responsibilities:
1. Identify impediments to and opportunities for job creation;
2. Review how other states and foreign countries are attracting jobs and how Virginia could replicate and improve upon those initiatives;
3. Review the agencies' role in job creation and make recommendations on how those efforts can be better coordinated to ensure unparalleled efficiency and effectiveness;
4. Make recommendations on new investments and changes to the tax and regulatory environment in the Commonwealth to maintain and increase the Commonwealth's standing as the best place to do business in the United State of America;
5. Evaluate the current programs and investments designed to develop the workforce and attract and retain businesses in Virginia, and make recommendations on their effectiveness and need for improvement; and
6. Assist the Cabinet and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership to identify and target industries and businesses to recruit to Virginia.
The Commission shall be organized into the following subcommittees reflecting key economic development priorities for the Commonwealth:
1. Business recruitment and retention
2. Economically challenged regions and localities
3. Energy research, exploration and production
4. Small business
5. Tourism and film marketing
6. Real estate and construction
The Commission shall coordinate its efforts with the Office of Education, Virginia's institutions of higher education and relevant Governor's commissions and task forces addressing workforce development and training.
Staff support for the Commission shall be provided by the Office of the Governor, including staff for the Chief Job Creation Officer, the Office of the Secretary of Commerce and Trade, the various other secretaries and their agencies represented on the Commission, and such other agencies as may be designated by the Chief Job Creation Officer. All executive branch agencies shall cooperate fully with the Commission and shall render such assistance as may be requested by it.
An estimated 2,000 hours of staff time will be required to support the commission. Such funding as is necessary for the term of the Commission's existence shall be provided from sources, including both private and appropriated funds, contributed or appropriated for purposes related to the work of the Commission, as authorized by Section 2.2-135(B) of the Code of Virginia. Direct expenditures for the Commission's work are estimated to be $15,000, exclusive of staff support.
The Commission shall provide its first report of recommendations and action items to the Governor no later than October 16, 2010. The Commission shall thereafter provide periodic supplemental reports setting forth additional recommendations and actions items, and reporting on agency progress implementing the Commission's recommendations adopted by the Governor.
Pursuant to Section 2.2-135 of the Code of Virginia, the Commission shall remain in effect for a period of one year, unless extended by the issuance of a new executive order for a period not to exceed one additional year.
Effective Date of the Executive Order
This Executive Order shall be effective upon its signing and shall remain in full force and effect unless amended or rescinded by further executive order.
Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia this 16th day of January 2010.
/s/ Robert F. McDonnell
Governor
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 2 (2010)
Establishing the Governor's Commission on Government Reform and Restructuring
Importance of the Issue
The Commonwealth of Virginia, like the rest of the nation, faces unprecedented budgetary challenges and increasing demands for core public services. Citizens and businesses residing in Virginia are entitled to a limited and effective state government. Revenues collected from Virginia taxpayers must be spent in the most efficient manner possible. It is incumbent on those charged with providing government services to protect the public from harm and theft, educate our citizenry, foster economic opportunity, provide necessary infrastructure, preserve fundamental rights and perform other essential functions in a manner that avoids duplication, delay and unnecessary regulation and bureaucracy. To ensure that the Commonwealth of Virginia provides the aforementioned core services utilizing the most cost effective methods available, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive, systematic and ongoing evaluation of the effectiveness and need for the state's existing agencies, governing bodies, programs, and services. This comprehensive review will make certain that duplicative, outdated, unnecessary and ineffective services and service delivery methods are eliminated and that state revenues are dedicated to the core functions of government.
Governor's Commission on Government Reform and Restructuring
Accordingly, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor under Article V of the Constitution of Virginia and under the laws of the Commonwealth, including but not limited to Section 2.2-134 of the Code of Virginia, and subject always to my continuing and ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters, I hereby establish the Governor's Commission on Government Reform and Restructuring ("Commission").
The Commission will conduct a thorough review of Virginia state government:
· Identify opportunities for creating efficiencies in state government, including streamlining, consolidating, or eliminating redundant and unnecessary agency services, governing bodies, regulations and programs;
· Explore innovative ways to deliver state services at the lowest cost and best value to Virginia taxpayers;
· Seek out means to more effectively and efficiently perform core state functions, including potential privatization of government operations where appropriate, and restore focus on core mission oriented service; and
· Examine ways for state government to be more transparent, user friendly and accountable to the citizens of the Commonwealth.
The Commission will consist of up to 20 citizen members appointed by the Governor and serving at his pleasure. The Governor shall designate a Chairman and a Vice-Chairman from among the citizen members. Three members of the Virginia House of Delegates and two members of the Virginia Senate shall also be invited to be members. The Secretaries of Administration and Finance, and the Vice-Chair of the Council on Virginia's Future, shall serve as ex officio, non-voting members of the Commission.
The Commission will submit reports to me of its findings and recommendations no later than July 16, 2010. The Commission shall submit a final report of its activities and recommendations by December 1, 2010. I direct all executive branch agencies and institutions to cooperate fully with the work of the Commission.
Staff support as is necessary for the conduct of the Commission's work during the term of its existence shall be furnished by the Office of the Governor, the Offices of the Governor's Cabinet Secretaries, the Department of Planning and Budget, and such other executive agencies as the Governor may designate. An estimated 2,000 hours of staff time will be required to support the Commission on an annual basis. Such funding as is necessary for the term of the Commission's existence shall be provided from sources, including both private and appropriated funds, contributed or appropriated for purposes related to the work of the Commission, as authorized by Section 2.2-135(B) of the Code of Virginia. Direct expenditures for the Commission's work are estimated to be $15,000 annually, exclusive of staff support.
Effective Date of the Executive Order
This Executive Order shall become effective upon its signing and shall remain in full force and effect until January 16, 2011, unless amended or rescinded by further executive order.
Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia this 16th day of January 2010.
/s/ Robert F. McDonnell
Governor
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 3 (2010)
Authority and Responsibility of the Chief of Staff
By virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor under Article V, Sections 1, 7, 8, and 10 of the Constitution of Virginia and Sections 2.2-100 and 2.2-104 of the Code of Virginia, and subject always to my continuing ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters and to reserve to myself any and all such powers, I hereby affirm and delegate to my Chief of Staff the powers and duties enumerated below.
1. To direct, as the deputy planning and budget officer, the administration of the state government planning and budget process, except as to the responsibilities enumerated below, which are retained by me:
a. Submission of the budget and accompanying documents to the General Assembly;
b. Final review and determination of all proposed expenditures and of estimated revenues and borrowings to be included in the Executive Budget for each state department, division, office, board, commission, institution, or other agency or undertaking;
c. Amendment of Position Levels; and
d. Authorization of deficits.
2. To direct, as the deputy personnel officer, the administration of the state government personnel system, except as to the responsibilities enumerated below, which are retained by me:
a. Final determination on the content of employee compensation plans;
b. Submission of reports to the General Assembly by the Governor as required by law;
c. Issuance, amendment, or suspension of the Rules for the Administration of the Virginia Personnel Act; and
d. Final action on appeals from appointing authorities to the Governor.
3. To review, in the event of my absence or unavailability, major planning, budgetary, personnel, policy, and legislative matters that require my decision.
4. To resolve, in the event of my absence or unavailability, policy or operational differences which may arise among or between my Secretaries and other Cabinet members.
5. To act, in consultation with the Senior Advisor for Policy, as a liaison to members of the General Assembly of Virginia.
6. To provide for the direction and supervision of the Governor's Office, as well as budgetary and personnel authority for the Office.
This Executive Order rescinds Executive Order 4 (2006) issued on January 14, 2006, by Governor Timothy M. Kaine. This Executive Order shall become effective upon its signing and shall remain in full force and effect until January 31, 2014, unless amended or rescinded by further executive order.
Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia this 29th day of January 2010.
/s/ Robert F. McDonnell
Governor
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 4 (2010)
Delegation of Governor's Authority to Declare a State of Emergency, to Call the Virginia National Guard to Active Service for Emergencies or Disasters, and to Declare the Governor Unable to Discharge the Powers and Duties of His Office When the Governor Cannot be Reached or is Incapacitated
By virtue of the authority vested in me by Section 2.2-104 of the Code of Virginia, and subject to the provisions stated herein, I hereby affirm and delegate to the Chief of Staff, followed in protocol order by the Secretary of Public Safety, the State Coordinator of the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and the Assistant to the Governor for Commonwealth Preparedness, my authorities under Sections 44-146.17 and 44-75.1 of the Code of Virginia, to declare a state of emergency and to call forth the Virginia National Guard or any part thereof to state active duty in any of the circumstances outlined in subsections 4 and 5 of Section 44-75.1 A.
I further hereby affirm and delegate to the Chief of Staff, my authority under Article V Section 16 of the Constitution and under Section 24.2-211 of the Code of Virginia to transmit to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates, a declaration that I am unable to discharge the powers and duties of the Governor's office. Each of these declarations is subject to the following conditions:
1. Such delegation is subject always to my continuing, ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters, and in the case of a declaration that I am unable to discharge the powers and duties of my office, my ability to transmit to the Clerk of the Senate and Clerk of the House of Delegates, my written declaration that no inability continues to exist and to resume the powers and duties of my office.
2. Use of this delegation is contingent upon my being unable to be reached so as to give my approval for the declaration of a state of emergency, as defined in Section 44-146.16 of the Code of Virginia, or use of the Virginia National Guard.
3. Use of this delegation to declare that I am unable to discharge the powers and duties of my office is specifically contingent upon my being unable to be reached or otherwise incapacitated for over 24 hours and the unavailability of any one of the Attorney General, President pro tempore of the Senate, or the Speaker of the House of Delegates.
4. This delegation is strictly standby in nature, to be held in abeyance until such time as there may be explicit circumstances involving an emergency whereby human lives and public and private property are threatened in the event of natural or man-made emergencies or disasters.
5. If the authority granted under this order is used, the Lieutenant Governor and I shall be informed of such use as soon as practicable.
This Executive Order rescinds Executive Order 104 (2009) issued on December 18, 2009, by Governor Timothy M. Kaine. This Executive Order shall become effective upon its signing and shall remain in full force and effect until January 31, 2014, unless amended or rescinded by further executive order.
Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia this 29th day of January 2010.
/s/ Robert F. McDonnell
Governor
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 5 (2010)
Declaration of a State of Emergency for the Commonwealth of Virginia Due to a Severe Winter Storm Event throughout the Commonwealth
On January 28, I verbally declared a state of emergency to exist for the Commonwealth of Virginia based on National Weather Service forecasts that indicate a severe winter storm with significant snow accumulations ranging from 4 to 12 inches and temperatures below freezing that could cause transportation difficulties and power outages.
The health and general welfare of the citizens of the Commonwealth require that state action be taken to help alleviate the conditions caused by this situation. The effects of this storm constitute a disaster wherein human life and public and private property are imperiled, as described in § 44-146.16 of the Code of Virginia.
Therefore, by virtue of the authority vested in me by § 44-146.17 of the Code of Virginia, as Governor and as Director of Emergency Management, and by virtue of the authority vested in me by Article V, Section 7 of the Constitution of Virginia and by § 44-75.1 of the Code of Virginia, as Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces of the Commonwealth, and subject always to my continuing and ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters, I hereby confirm, ratify, and memorialize in writing my verbal orders issued this date, wherein I proclaim that a state of emergency exists and direct that appropriate assistance be rendered by agencies of both state and local governments to prepare for potential impacts of the storm, to alleviate any conditions resulting from significant storm events and to implement recovery and mitigation operations and activities so as to return impacted areas to pre-event conditions in so far as possible. Pursuant to § 44-75.1 A 3 and A 4 of the Code of Virginia, I also directed that the Virginia National Guard and the Virginia Defense Force be called forth to state duty to assist in providing such aid. This shall include Virginia National Guard assistance to the Virginia State Police to direct traffic, prevent looting, and perform such other law enforcement functions as the Superintendent of State Police, in consultation with the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, the Adjutant General, and the Secretary of Public Safety, may find necessary.
In order to marshal all public resources and appropriate preparedness, response and recovery measures to meet this potential threat and recover from its effects, and in accordance with my authority contained in § 44-146.17 of the Emergency Services and Disaster Laws, I hereby order the following protective and restoration measures:
A. The implementation by agencies of the state and local governments of the Commonwealth of Virginia Emergency Operations Plan, as amended, along with other appropriate state agency plans.
B. The activation of the Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC) and the Virginia Emergency Response Team (VERT) to coordinate the provision of assistance to local governments. I am directing that the VEOC and VERT coordinate state actions in support of potential affected localities, other mission assignments to agencies designated in the Commonwealth of Virginia Emergency Operations Plan (COVEOP) and others that may be identified by the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, in consultation with the Secretary of Public Safety, which are needed to provide for the preservation of life, protection of property, and implementation of recovery activities.
C. The authorization to assume control over the Commonwealth's state-operated telecommunications systems, as required by the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, in coordination with the Virginia Information Technology Agency, and with the consultation of the Secretary of Public Safety, making all systems assets available for use in providing adequate communications, intelligence and warning capabilities for the event, pursuant to § 44-146.18 of the Code of Virginia.
D. The evacuation of areas threatened or stricken by effects of the storm. Following a declaration of a local emergency pursuant to § 44-146.21 of the Code of Virginia, if a local governing body determines that evacuation is deemed necessary for the preservation of life or other emergency mitigation, response or recovery, pursuant to § 44-146.17 (1) of the Code of Virginia, I direct the evacuation of all or part of the populace therein from such areas and upon such timetable as the local governing body, in coordination with the Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC), acting on behalf of the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, shall determine. Notwithstanding the foregoing, I reserve the right to direct and compel evacuation from the same and different areas and determine a different timetable both where local governing bodies have made such a determination and where local governing bodies have not made such a determination. Violations of any order to citizens to evacuate shall constitute a violation of this Executive Order and are punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
E. The activation, implementation and coordination of appropriate mutual aid agreements and compacts, including the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), and the authorization of the State Coordinator of Emergency Management to enter into any other supplemental agreements, pursuant to § 44-146.17(5) and § 44-146.28:1 of the Code of Virginia, to provide for the evacuation and reception of injured and other persons and the exchange of medical, fire, police, National Guard personnel and equipment, public utility, reconnaissance, welfare, transportation and communications personnel, and equipment and supplies. The State Coordinator of Emergency Management is hereby designated as Virginia's authorized representative within the meaning of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, § 44-146.28:1 of the Code of Virginia.
F. The authorization of the Departments of State Police, Transportation and Motor Vehicles to grant temporary overweight, overwidth, registration, or license exemptions to all carriers transporting essential emergency relief supplies or providing restoration of utilities (electricity, gas, phone, water, wastewater, and cable) in and through any area of the Commonwealth in order to support the disaster response and recovery, regardless of their point of origin or destination.
The axle and gross weights shown below are the maximum allowed, unless otherwise posted.
Any One Axle | 24,000 Pounds |
Tandem Axles (more than 40 inches but not more than 96 inches spacing between axle centers) | 44,000 Pounds |
Single Unit (2 Axles) | 44,000 Pounds |
Single Unit (3 Axles) | 54,500 Pounds |
Tractor-Semitrailer (4 Axles) | 64,500 Pounds |
Tractor-Semitrailer (5 or more Axles) | 90,000 Pounds |
Tractor-Twin Trailers (5 or more Axles) | 90,000 Pounds |
Other Combinations (5 or more Axles) | 90,000 Pounds |
Per Inch of Tire Width in Contact with Road Surface | 850 Pounds |
All overwidth loads, up to a maximum of 12 feet, must follow Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hauling permit and safety guidelines.
In addition to described overweight/overwidth transportation privileges, carriers are also exempt from registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles. This includes the vehicles enroute and returning to their home base. The above-cited agencies shall communicate this information to all staff responsible for permit issuance and truck legalization enforcement.
This authorization shall apply to hours worked by any carrier when transporting passengers, property, equipment, food, fuel, construction materials and other critical supplies to or from any portion of the Commonwealth for purpose of providing relief or assistance as a result of this disaster, pursuant to § 52-8.4 of the Code of Virginia.
The foregoing overweight/overwidth transportation privileges as well as the regulatory exemption provided by § 52-8.4 A of the Code of Virginia, and implemented in 19VAC30-20-40 B of the "Motor Carrier Safety Regulations," shall remain in effect for 30 days from the onset of the disaster, or until emergency relief is no longer necessary, as determined by the Secretary of Public Safety in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, whichever is earlier.
G. The discontinuance of provisions authorized in paragraph F above may be implemented and disseminated by publication of administrative notice to all affected and interested parties by the authority I hereby delegate to the Secretary of Public Safety, after consultation with other affected Cabinet-level Secretaries.
H. The authorization of a maximum of $100,000 for matching funds for the Individuals and Household Program, authorized by The Stafford Act (when presidentially authorized), to be paid from state funds.
I. The implementation by public agencies under my supervision and control of their emergency assignments as directed in the COVEOP without regard to normal procedures pertaining to performance of public work, entering into contracts, incurring of obligations, or other logistical and support measures of the Emergency Services and Disaster Laws, as provided in § 44-146.28 (b) of the Code of Virginia. Section 44-146.24 of the Code of Virginia also applies to the disaster activities of state agencies.
J. Upon my approval, the costs incurred by state agencies and other agents in performing mission assignments through the VEOC of the Commonwealth as defined herein and in § 44-146.28 of the Code of Virginia, in performing these missions shall be paid from state funds and/or federal funds. In addition, up to $100,000 shall be made available for state response and recovery operations and incident documentation with the Department of Planning and Budget overseeing the release of these funds.
K. Designation of members and personnel of volunteer, auxiliary and reserve groups including search and rescue (SAR), Virginia Associations of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS), Civil Air Patrol (CAP), member organizations of the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES), volunteer fire fighters, Citizen Corps Programs such as Medical Reserve Corps (MRCs) and Citizen Emergency Response Teams (CERTS), and others identified and tasked by the State Coordinator of Emergency Management for specific disaster related mission assignments as representatives of the Commonwealth engaged in emergency services activities within the meaning of the immunity provisions of § 44-146.23 (a) and (f) of the Code of Virginia, in the performance of their specific disaster-related mission assignments.
L. The authorization of appropriate oversight boards, commissions and agencies to ease building code restrictions, and to permit emergency demolition, hazardous waste disposal, debris removal, emergency landfill siting and operations and other activities necessary to address immediate health and safety needs without regard to time-consuming procedures or formalities and without regard to application or permit fees or royalties.
M. The activation of the statutory provisions in § 59.1-525 et. seq. of the Code of Virginia related to price gouging. Price gouging at any time is unacceptable. Price gouging is even more reprehensible after a natural disaster. I have directed all applicable executive branch agencies to take immediate action to address any verified reports of price gouging of necessary goods or services. I make the same request of the Office of the Attorney General and appropriate local officials.
N. The following conditions apply to the deployment of the Virginia National Guard and the Virginia Defense Force:
1. The Adjutant General of Virginia, after consultation with the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, shall make available on state active duty such units and members of the Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force and such equipment as may be necessary or desirable to assist in preparations and in alleviating the human suffering and damage to property.
2. Pursuant to § 52-6 of the Code of Virginia, I authorize the Superintendent of State Police to appoint any and all such Virginia Army and Air National Guard personnel called to state active duty as additional police officers as deemed necessary. These police officers shall have the same powers and perform the same duties as the State Police officers appointed by the Superintendent. However, they shall nevertheless remain members of the Virginia National Guard, subject to military command as members of the State Militia. Any bonds and/or insurance required by § 52-7 of the Code of Virginia shall be provided for them at the expense of the Commonwealth.
3. In all instances, members of the Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force shall remain subject to military command as prescribed by § 44-78.1 of the Code of Virginia and not subject to the civilian authorities of county or municipal governments. This shall not be deemed to prohibit working in close cooperation with members of the Virginia Departments of State Police or Emergency Management or local law enforcement or emergency management authorities or receiving guidance from them in the performance of their duties.
4. Should service under this Executive Order result in the injury or death of any member of the Virginia National Guard, the following will be provided to the member and the member's dependents or survivors:
(a) Workers Compensation benefits provided to members of the National Guard by the Virginia Workers Compensation Act, subject to the requirements and limitations thereof; and, in addition,
(b) The same benefits, or their equivalent, for injury, disability and/or death, as would be provided by the federal government if the member were serving on federal active duty at the time of the injury or death. Any such federal-type benefits due to a member and his or her dependents or survivors during any calendar month shall be reduced by any payments due under the Virginia Workers Compensation Act during the same month. If and when the time period for payment of Workers Compensation benefits has elapsed, the member and his or her dependents or survivors shall thereafter receive full federal-type benefits for as long as they would have received such benefits if the member had been serving on federal active duty at the time of injury or death. Any federal-type benefits due shall be computed on the basis of military pay grade E-5 or the member's military grade at the time of injury or death, whichever produces the greater benefit amount. Pursuant to § 44-14 of the Code of Virginia, and subject to the availability of future appropriations which may be lawfully applied to this purpose, I now approve of future expenditures out of appropriations to the Department of Military Affairs for such federal-type benefits as being manifestly for the benefit of the military service.
5. The following conditions apply to service by the Virginia Defense Force:
1. Compensation shall be at a daily rate that is equivalent of base pay only for a National Guard Unit Training Assembly, commensurate with the grade and years of service of the member, not to exceed 20 years of service;
2. Lodging and meals shall be provided by the Adjutant General or reimbursed at standard state per diem rates;
3. All privately owned equipment, including, but not limited to, vehicles, boats, and aircraft, will be reimbursed for expense of fuel. Damage or loss of said equipment will be reimbursed, minus reimbursement from personal insurance, if said equipment was authorized for use by the Adjutant General in accordance with § 44-54.12 of the Code of Virginia; and
4. In the event of death or injury, benefits shall be provided in accordance with the Virginia Workers Compensation Act, subject to the requirements and limitations thereof.
Upon my approval, the costs incurred by state agencies and other agents in performing mission assignments through the VEOC of the Commonwealth as defined herein and in § 44-146.28 of the Code of Virginia, other than costs defined in the paragraphs above pertaining to the Virginia National Guard and the Virginia Defense Force, in performing these missions shall be paid from state funds.
This Executive Order shall be effective January XX, 2010 and shall remain in full force and effect until June 30, 2011 unless sooner amended or rescinded by further executive order. Termination of the Executive Order is not intended to terminate any federal-type benefits granted or to be granted due to injury or death as a result of service under this Executive Order.
Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia, this 29th day of January 2010.
/s/ Robert F. McDonnell
Governor
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 6 (2010)
Equal Opportunity
By virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor, I hereby declare that it is the firm and unwavering policy of the Commonwealth of Virginia to assure equal opportunity in all facets of state government.
This order is in furtherance of the stated policy enacted by the General Assembly, and specifically prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, political affiliation, or against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities. The policy permits appropriate employment preferences for veterans and specifically prohibits discrimination against veterans as contemplated by state and federal law.
State appointing authorities and other managers are hereby directed to take appropriate measures, as determined by the Director of the Department of Human Resource Management, to emphasize the recruitment and appointment of qualified minorities, veterans, women, disabled persons, and older Virginians to serve at all levels of state government. This directive does not in any way permit nor requires the lowering of any job requirements, performance standards, or qualifications so as to give preference to any state employee or applicant for state employment.
Allegations of violations of this policy shall be brought to the attention of the Office of Equal Employment Services of the Department of Human Resource Management. No state appointing authority, other managers, or supervisor shall take retaliatory actions against persons making such allegations.
Any state employee found in violation of this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
The Secretary of Administration is directed to review annually state procurement, employment, and other relevant policies for compliance with the non-discrimination mandate contained herein and in general law, and shall report to the Governor her findings together with such recommendations as she deems appropriate. The Director of the Department of Human Resource Management shall assist in this review.
This Executive Order supersedes and rescinds Executive Order Number One (2006), Equal Opportunity, issued by Governor Timothy M. Kaine on January 14, 2006.
This Executive Order shall become effective upon its signing and shall remain in full force and effect until amended or rescinded by further executive order.
Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia this 5th day of February 2010.
/s/ Robert F. McDonnell
Governor
EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 7 (2010) - (Revised)
Declaration of a State of Emergency For the Commonwealth of Virginia Due to a Severe Winter Storm Event throughout the Commonwealth
On February 3, 2010 and again on February 8, 2010, I verbally declared a state of emergency to exist for the Commonwealth of Virginia based on National Weather Service forecasts indicating severe winter storms with significant snow and ice accumulations and excessive rain that could impact the Commonwealth between February 5 and 10, 2010, creating the potential for transportation difficulties and power outages.
The health and general welfare of the citizens of the Commonwealth require that state action be taken to help alleviate the conditions caused by this situation. The effects of these storms constitute disasters wherein human life and public and private property are imperiled, as described in § 44-146.16 of the Code of Virginia.
Therefore, by virtue of the authority vested in me by § 44-146.17 of the Code of Virginia, as Governor and as Director of Emergency Management, and by virtue of the authority vested in me by Article V, Section 7 of the Constitution of Virginia and by § 44-75.1 of the Code of Virginia, as Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces of the Commonwealth, and subject always to my continuing and ultimate authority and responsibility to act in such matters, I hereby confirm, ratify, and memorialize in writing my verbal orders issued on February 3, 2010 and February 8, 2010, whereby I proclaimed that states of emergency exist, and I direct that appropriate assistance be rendered by agencies of both state and local governments to prepare for potential impacts of the storm, to alleviate any conditions resulting from significant storm events and to implement recovery and mitigation operations and activities so as to return impacted areas to pre-event conditions in so far as possible. Pursuant to § 44-75.1 A 3 and A 4 of the Code of Virginia, I also directed that the Virginia National Guard and the Virginia Defense Force be called forth to state duty to assist in providing such aid. This shall include Virginia National Guard assistance to the Virginia State Police to direct traffic, prevent looting, and perform such other law enforcement functions as the Superintendent of State Police, in consultation with the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, the Adjutant General, and the Secretary of Public Safety, may find necessary.
In order to marshal all public resources and appropriate preparedness, response and recovery measures to meet these potential threats and recover from their effects, and in accordance with my authority contained in § 44-146.17 of the Emergency Services and Disaster Laws, I hereby order the following protective and restoration measures:
A. The implementation by agencies of the state and local governments of the Commonwealth of Virginia Emergency Operations Plan, as amended, along with other appropriate state agency plans.
B. The activation of the Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC) and the Virginia Emergency Response Team (VERT) to coordinate the provision of assistance to local governments. I am directing that the VEOC and VERT coordinate state actions in support of potential affected localities, other mission assignments to agencies designated in the Commonwealth of Virginia Emergency Operations Plan (COVEOP) and others that may be identified by the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, in consultation with the Secretary of Public Safety, which are needed to provide for the preservation of life, protection of property, and implementation of recovery activities.
C. The authorization to assume control over the Commonwealth's state-operated telecommunications systems, as required by the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, in coordination with the Virginia Information Technology Agency, and with the consultation of the Secretary of Public Safety, making all systems assets available for use in providing adequate communications, intelligence and warning capabilities for the event, pursuant to § 44-146.18 of the Code of Virginia.
D. The evacuation of areas threatened or stricken by effects of the storms. Following a declaration of a local emergency pursuant to § 44-146.21 of the Code of Virginia, if a local governing body determines that evacuation is deemed necessary for the preservation of life or other emergency mitigation, response or recovery, pursuant to § 44-146.17 (1) of the Code of Virginia, I direct the evacuation of all or part of the populace therein from such areas and upon such timetable as the local governing body, in coordination with the Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC), acting on behalf of the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, shall determine. Notwithstanding the foregoing, I reserve the right to direct and compel evacuation from the same and different areas and determine a different timetable both where local governing bodies have made such a determination and where local governing bodies have not made such a determination. Violations of any order to citizens to evacuate shall constitute a violation of this Executive Order and are punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
E. The activation, implementation and coordination of appropriate mutual aid agreements and compacts, including the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), and the authorization of the State Coordinator of Emergency Management to enter into any other supplemental agreements, pursuant to § 44-146.17(5) and § 44-146.28:1 of the Code of Virginia, to provide for the evacuation and reception of injured and other persons and the exchange of medical, fire, police, National Guard personnel and equipment, public utility, reconnaissance, welfare, transportation and communications personnel, and equipment and supplies. The State Coordinator of Emergency Management is hereby designated as Virginia's authorized representative within the meaning of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, § 44-146.28:1 of the Code of Virginia.
F. The authorization of the Departments of State Police, Transportation and Motor Vehicles to grant temporary overweight, overwidth, registration, or license exemptions to all carriers transporting essential emergency relief supplies or providing restoration of utilities (electricity, gas, phone, water, wastewater, and cable) in and through any area of the Commonwealth in order to support the disaster response and recovery, regardless of their point of origin or destination. The axle and gross weights shown below are the maximum allowed, unless otherwise posted.
Any One Axle | 24,000 Pounds |
Tandem Axles (more than 40 inches but not more than 96 inches spacing between axle centers) | 44,000 Pounds |
Single Unit (2 Axles) | 44,000 Pounds |
Single Unit (3 Axles) | 54,500 Pounds |
Tractor-Semitrailer (4 Axles) | 64,500 Pounds |
Tractor-Semitrailer (5 or more Axles) | 90,000 Pounds |
Tractor-Twin Trailers (5 or more Axles) | 90,000 Pounds |
Other Combinations (5 or more Axles) | 90,000 Pounds |
Per Inch of Tire Width in Contact with Road Surface | 850 Pounds |
All overwidth loads, up to a maximum of 12 feet, must follow Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hauling permit and safety guidelines.
In addition to described overweight/overwidth transportation privileges, carriers are also exempt from registration with the Department of Motor Vehicles. This includes the vehicles enroute and returning to their home base. The above-cited agencies shall communicate this information to all staff responsible for permit issuance and truck legalization enforcement.
This authorization shall apply to hours worked by any carrier when transporting passengers, property, equipment, food, fuel, construction materials and other critical supplies to or from any portion of the Commonwealth for purpose of providing relief or assistance as a result of this disaster, pursuant to § 52-8.4 of the Code of Virginia.
The foregoing overweight/overwidth transportation privileges as well as the regulatory exemption provided by § 52-8.4 A of the Code of Virginia, and implemented in 19VAC30-20-40 B of the "Motor Carrier Safety Regulations," shall remain in effect for 30 days from the onset of the disaster, or until emergency relief is no longer necessary, as determined by the Secretary of Public Safety in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, whichever is earlier.
G. The discontinuance of provisions authorized in paragraph F above may be implemented and disseminated by publication of administrative notice to all affected and interested parties by the authority I hereby delegate to the Secretary of Public Safety, after consultation with other affected Cabinet-level Secretaries.
H. The authorization of a maximum of $100,000 for matching funds for the Individuals and Household Program, authorized by The Stafford Act (when presidentially authorized), to be paid from state funds.
I. The implementation by public agencies under my supervision and control of their emergency assignments as directed in the COVEOP without regard to normal procedures pertaining to performance of public work, entering into contracts, incurring of obligations, or other logistical and support measures of the Emergency Services and Disaster Laws, as provided in § 44-146.28 (b) of the Code of Virginia. Section 44-146.24 of the Code of Virginia also applies to the disaster activities of state agencies.
J. Upon my approval, the costs incurred by state agencies and other agents in performing mission assignments through the VEOC of the Commonwealth as defined herein and in § 44-146.28 of the Code of Virginia, in performing these missions shall be paid from state funds and/or federal funds. In addition, up to $100,000 shall be made available for state response and recovery operations and incident documentation with the Department of Planning and Budget overseeing the release of these funds.
K. Designation of members and personnel of volunteer, auxiliary and reserve groups including search and rescue (SAR), Virginia Associations of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS), Civil Air Patrol (CAP), member organizations of the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES), volunteer fire fighters, Citizen Corps Programs such as Medical Reserve Corps (MRCs) and Citizen Emergency Response Teams (CERTS), and others identified and tasked by the State Coordinator of Emergency Management for specific disaster related mission assignments as representatives of the Commonwealth engaged in emergency services activities within the meaning of the immunity provisions of § 44-146.23 (a) and (f) of the Code of Virginia, in the performance of their specific disaster-related mission assignments.
L. The authorization of appropriate oversight boards, commissions and agencies to ease building code restrictions, and to permit emergency demolition, hazardous waste disposal, debris removal, emergency landfill siting and operations and other activities necessary to address immediate health and safety needs without regard to time-consuming procedures or formalities and without regard to application or permit fees or royalties.
M. The activation of the statutory provisions in § 59.1-525 et. seq. of the Code of Virginia related to price gouging. Price gouging at any time is unacceptable. Price gouging is even more reprehensible after a natural disaster. I have directed all applicable executive branch agencies to take immediate action to address any verified reports of price gouging of necessary goods or services. I make the same request of the Office of the Attorney General and appropriate local officials.
N. The following conditions apply to the deployment of the Virginia National Guard and the Virginia Defense Force:
1. The Adjutant General of Virginia, after consultation with the State Coordinator of Emergency Management, shall make available on state active duty such units and members of the Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force and such equipment as may be necessary or desirable to assist in preparations and in alleviating the human suffering and damage to property.
2. Pursuant to § 52-6 of the Code of Virginia, I authorize the Superintendent of State Police to appoint any and all such Virginia Army and Air National Guard personnel called to state active duty as additional police officers as deemed necessary. These police officers shall have the same powers and perform the same duties as the State Police officers appointed by the Superintendent. However, they shall nevertheless remain members of the Virginia National Guard, subject to military command as members of the State Militia. Any bonds and/or insurance required by § 52-7 of the Code of Virginia shall be provided for them at the expense of the Commonwealth.
3. In all instances, members of the Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force shall remain subject to military command as prescribed by § 44-78.1 of the Code of Virginia and not subject to the civilian authorities of county or municipal governments. This shall not be deemed to prohibit working in close cooperation with members of the Virginia Departments of State Police or Emergency Management or local law enforcement or emergency management authorities or receiving guidance from them in the performance of their duties.
4. Should service under this Executive Order result in the injury or death of any member of the Virginia National Guard, the following will be provided to the member and the member's dependents or survivors:
a. Workers Compensation benefits provided to members of the National Guard by the Virginia Workers Compensation Act, subject to the requirements and limitations thereof; and, in addition,
b. The same benefits, or their equivalent, for injury, disability and/or death, as would be provided by the federal government if the member were serving on federal active duty at the time of the injury or death. Any such federal-type benefits due to a member and his or her dependents or survivors during any calendar month shall be reduced by any payments due under the Virginia Workers Compensation Act during the same month. If and when the time period for payment of Workers' Compensation benefits has elapsed, the member and his or her dependents or survivors shall thereafter receive full federal-type benefits for as long as they would have received such benefits if the member had been serving on federal active duty at the time of injury or death. Any federal-type benefits due shall be computed on the basis of military pay grade E-5 or the member's military grade at the time of injury or death, whichever produces the greater benefit amount. Pursuant to § 44-14 of the Code of Virginia, and subject to the availability of future appropriations which may be lawfully applied to this purpose, I now approve of future expenditures out of appropriations to the Department of Military Affairs for such federal-type benefits as being manifestly for the benefit of the military service.
5. The following conditions apply to service by the Virginia Defense Force:
1. Compensation shall be at a daily rate that is equivalent of base pay only for a National Guard Unit Training Assembly, commensurate with the grade and years of service of the member, not to exceed 20 years of service;
2. Lodging and meals shall be provided by the Adjutant General or reimbursed at standard state per diem rates;
3. All privately owned equipment, including, but not limited to, vehicles, boats, and aircraft, will be reimbursed for expense of fuel. Damage or loss of said equipment will be reimbursed, minus reimbursement from personal insurance, if said equipment was authorized for use by the Adjutant General in accordance with § 44-54.12 of the Code of Virginia; and
4. In the event of death or injury, benefits shall be provided in accordance with the Virginia Workers Compensation Act, subject to the requirements and limitations thereof.
Upon my approval, the costs incurred by state agencies and other agents in performing mission assignments through the VEOC of the Commonwealth as defined herein and in § 44-146.28 of the Code of Virginia, other than costs defined in the paragraphs above pertaining to the Virginia National Guard and the Virginia Defense Force, in performing these missions shall be paid from state funds.
This Executive Order shall be effective retroactively to February 3, 2010 and shall remain in full force and effect until June 30, 2011 unless sooner amended or rescinded by further executive order. Termination of the Executive Order is not intended to terminate any federal-type benefits granted or to be granted due to injury or death as a result of service under this Executive Order.
Given under my hand and under the Seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia, this tenth Day of February 2010.
/s/ Robert F. McDonnell
Governor