During times of economic downturn, it is critical for the government to focus on ways to keep money in the hands of the people and out of the pockets and coffers of the government. Individuals and local businesses drive our economy.  The more we can do to support their efforts and endeavors, the more we will do to support the growth of our local economy. 

I have and will continue to be a strong advocate for small business.  Tax incentives and tax relief can also play a critical role in drawing in new businesses to the Treasure Valley.  I am a supporter of appropriate measures to encourage new business, and thus new jobs. 

As your Representative, I have to be mindful of the fact of not creating a shift in the tax burden when considering tax incentives or tax relief.  Any type of tax incentive has to have adequate measures in place to review in the future to determine whether or not they provided the anticipated benefit to the state.

As with all public agencies, we need to hold our transportation agencies accountable for the public tax dollars that we entrust them with.  This is why during the past legislative session I supported an external efficiency audit of the Idaho Transportation Department. 

Before we look to putting additional funds into our pubic transportation agencies, we need to ensure that we are getting the most out of the tax dollars they already have.  If indeed, we do need to raise additional funds for our transportation infrastructure, we will need to consider a variety of sources, and we will need to consider how those sources may impact the daily lives of the people of the Treasure Valley.

The proper education of our children is critical not only for their individual futures, but for the collective future of our society. 

I support all of the hard work that our teachers and administrators daily put into our children.  The education of our children is the responsibility of the parents first and foremost, and the responsibility of our schools and teachers. 

I support rewarding those teachers who are going above and beyond in the classroom and those teachers who are putting in additional effort to fill the hard to fill positions and taking up leadership roles.

I believe the residents of District 21 deserve a voice when their local governments are contemplating annexation.  Having a voice in an annexation decision consists of several different things, with the primary voice being the ability to vote on the decision.

I have worked in the Legislature to increase notification, awareness, and communication by the local governments when they are extending services such as water and sewer.  I will continue to work for District 21 to have the right to vote on annexation decisions made at the local level. 

This current situation was created by local governments being willing to extend their services outside of their current city limits and/or areas of impact.  I will also focus on reform to ensure that with the growth in District 21, there is wise infrastructure development by the local governments.

My primary goal, if elected, is passing legislation to require consolidated elections for all government bodies.  Currently, elections are held at various times of the year at a variety of locations.  This lack of consistency causes confusion for voters and can lead to frustration and a lack of participation. 

I believe it is important for elections to be accessible so that all can participate.   Elections for all government bodies from your local school board to the President should be held on the same date and at the same location.