In a previous column, I had mentioned that I was a member of the newly formed Small Business Caucus. The caucus is a bi-partisan group, made up mainly of individuals who own or run a small business. The goal of the caucus is to share our experience and knowledge in business so that we can help Delaware become an environment where new businesses are created and existing businesses are able to grow. The end result will mean economic growth and more jobs for the citizens of Delaware. The creation of new jobs is one important step in our state’s economic recovery.
The Small Business Caucus has been holding regular meetings in which we have heard presentations from the State, County, and Local Chamber of Commerce. During these presentations we have learned about the efforts that are being made by these organizations to help promote economic growth, and to learn how we can further the process. We have also heard from the SBA Small Business Administration, concerning the current lending environment and how that is affecting start up businesses and business expansion. It is clear that additional work needs to be done within the lending markets to help improve the ability for businesses to tap into cash resources which are needed for their growth and development.
One theme that has been discussed is the obstacles that bureaucracy create on both the local and state levels in hindering a company’s ability to grow. The message in Dover is becoming loud and clear. We cannot remove regulations that have been put in place to protect runaway growth, educational needs, public services and safety needs, as well as environmental concerns. However, we can improve the attitude of solving problems and getting issues resolved so that projects can move forward and not be stuck in limbo for months on end. Citizens across the state have said that they would rather see us grow our way out of the current economic situation rather than tax and cut our way out of the problem. In order to do this, we need to review all procedures and requirements that businesses go through in the start up phase and expansion and ensure that they are handled in the most conducive ways possible. Please contact me to share any thoughts on areas you feel can be made more efficient.
Improving education and children’s services
Another area that is very important to the future of our state is our education system. The quality of our education system is directly related to the ongoing progress and success of our future. Not only is it important that we have a quality education system that produces quality future leaders, it is also an important part in attracting good paying quality jobs. Future employers look at what quality of life their employees will have, when deciding to locate in a certain area. The quality of the local education system is a big part of that decision making process.
I am a member of the House Education Committee and also a member of the Kids Caucus. The Kids Caucus is another bi-partisan group whose goal is to promote a legislative agenda that focuses on educational issues, health issues, and legal and insurance issues, as they relate to children. This year, the committee has created three new subcommittees which will specialize in special needs issues, health and wellness issues, and juvenile justice issues.
I am proud to be the chairman of the special needs subcommittee. As a parent of a child with a disability, I understand the battles that children with disabilities and their parents have to fight in dealing with and overcoming their disability. Many of these battles are unnecessary! Some of these battles deal with access to services and programs, educational opportunities, social interactions and insurance and medical related issues. In these difficult economic times it is easy to overlook the needs of our disabled citizens. That is why now more than ever we cannot forget the kids especially those kids with disabilities who need our help! Within school districts and the state, goals have been set that we provide a world class education where children have the opportunity to maximize their full potential. We must ensure that children with disabilities are given the same opportunities.
Some of the issues this subcommittee will be working on include investigating measures that will improve the shortage that exists of speech therapists, occupational therapists, and sign language interpreters within the state. We are also going to review and ensure that early identification and intervention is a priority and is happening consistently and effectively across the state. We will also look at ways to improve transition services for children exiting school and entering adulthood.
Sadly, due to our current economic situation, funds that will be needed for some of the initiatives aimed at improving our educational system are not available. However, we must not let that deter us in moving forward in our goals for a world class education for all children. Positively, more groups and agencies who have similar causes, have banned together to help stretch resources and focused support. Much of the foundation that is needed for the future can be built today! WHEN we come out of this current economic crisis, we will be ready to implement the changes and programs necessary for a world class education!
The budget vastly overshadows many of the other orders of business that are happening in Dover, and rightfully so. Most recent projections place us with a $750 million deficit and possibly still growing. The Governor has outlined his broad proposals which include adding sports betting and possibly more gambling venues. He proposed pay reductions, increased taxes on alcohol and tobacco, increased personal income tax and increased gross receipts tax to name a few. By the time this article is published the House and perhaps even the Senate will have already voted on adding sports betting and what the future of gambling may look like for the state. Political reasons are not the driving force behind the speed in which legislation is moving in Dover, necessity is the driving force.
Earlier I mentioned that most citizens would rather grow our way out of this economic crisis versus getting increased taxes and cuts. Any revenue enhancer that is proposed takes time to get up and running, months will pass before the state actually experiences any increase in revenue from these ventures. As a result of the speed in which legislation is moving, it is increasingly challenging for you to stay informed and to have an opinion on what is being decided. It is important that all legislators hear from their constituents and that we understand your wishes. If you have a question about what is going on or would like to let me know if you are for or against any bill that is before the House, please get in touch with me at quinton.johnson@state.de.us or call my office 302-744-4351. Thank you!
DOVER, Del. —
