As the 2008 General Assembly ends, I would like to share with you
some of my highs and lows in my first Session as your State Senator. I had
several disappointments, but fortunately, they were countered with successes.

           I was dismayed to see my low level nuclear waste disposal study
dropped by the House of Delegates. Concurring with my concerns that we
have no plan for our low level nuclear waste when South Carolina stops accepting
it in July, the State Senate unanimously approved a study. Unfortunately, the House of Delegates used tyranny of the majority to never even raise it for
discussion or  vote.  My worry remains that we have no plan and the time quickly
approaches when Virginia will need to dispose of its own radioactive trash.

            I also had introduced a bill to ensure that high school students are exposed
to information about FDA approved contraceptives in a strong abstinence based
Family Life Education program. The Senate narrowly rejected this bill. While
abstinence is the best choice for our youth and we must stress that in our schools,
we all know that sometimes our adolescents don’t listen. Therefore, it is
imperative that high schoolers have the information they need to stay and be safe.

              However, even in this year’s heightened partisan environment, with the
support of my Democratic colleagues, I had some important successes. My
Higher Education Student Loan Act has passed the House and Senate and
awaits the governor’ signature. This will ensure transparency in the financial aid
business, forcing lenders and higher education institutions to disclose important
information to students about the lenders and their relationship with the university.
This is an important step in making higher education accessible and affordable
for all students who want it. 

            We made some important progress in protecting our companion animals
by prohibiting animal fighting in all forms and banning puppy mills. These are
significant initiatives in ensuring that every companion animal has the opportunity
to have a quality life with a loving permanent family.

            Citizen Environmental Boards survived an attempt to weaken them and,
thereby, weaken oversight of our environment. We were also able to institute
several other environmental measures. We have a long way to go to try to rectify
some of the problems caused by abuse and neglect of our earth, but I see
progress and I am eager to continue to advocate for these critical improvements.

             With the Session ending, I will be back in my district office at Nine Mile
Road. My door is always open and I am happy to talk with constituents. I can be
reached at 288.3381 or through email on my website www.donaldmceachin.com.

            Most importantly, thank you for the very great honor and privilege of
representing you in the Virginia State Senate. Please know I am here for you.


Senator Donald McEachin