Woodbridge, Virginia (September 14, 2004) -- Delegate Jeff Frederick, along with thirteen Northern Virginia Republican lawmakers today announced plans to pursue legislation to set up a revolving trust fund that would enable the Commonwealth to leverage trust fund dollars to jump-start critical transportation improvements and provide over $5 billion over the next 20 years for road and transit construction.

One of the core government responsibilities that was not able to be addressed during the 2004 session was transportation funding. Since then, many business and community leaders have been increasing their calls for policymakers to address transportation.

“For too long, a top taxpayer priority – transportation – has been neglected in Richmond,” stated Delegate Frederick. “It is time for the General Assembly to address this issue as the priority it is, and I believe we have a real opportunity to do it in 2005 – using creative solutions without raising taxes.”

In addition, Mr. Frederick will file a number of transportation-related legislation in the coming 2005 session. These include requiring all auto-insurance premium taxes be deposited into the transportation-trust fund; a constitutional amendment locking up the trust fund from budget-process raids; modifying the law enforcement exemption in HOV lanes; expansion of commuter parking; regular VDOT audits; and tax credits for businesses that encourage their employees to telecommute/telework.

Joining lawmakers today were representatives from several Northern Virginia business groups such as, the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Washington Board of Trade, the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance, Northern Virginia Technology Council and the Dulles Area Transportation Alliance, all of which have pledged their support for this important transportation proposal.