The General Assembly has been doing yeoman’s work in studying the needs of manufacturers in Virginia. Although it accounts for an ever-diminishing percentage of jobs in Virginia, the manufacturing sector remains a vital contributor to the Commonwealth’s economy, especially in Virginia’s smaller metropolitan areas. The Senate has been investigating what the state might do to become more competitive in the manufacturing arena.
A joint subcommittee studying manufacturing has issued a preliminary report, with a final draft to follow after the General Assembly session. Among the highlights:
- Revamp the rules regarding the ownership of intellectual property developed at state universities through privately-sponsored research.
- Adopt a state energy plan which would include measures to improve the supply of natural gas.
- Reduce the state/local tax load on manufacturing, which is higher than for any other sector of the economy.
