Author Archives: matt ohern

King v. Burwell: What State Lawmakers Should Do

State lawmakers—particularly those in states that would be affected by a Supreme Court ruling against the Obama Administration in the King case—should take steps to encourage Congress to put forth a legislative response to the case, specifically by exempting affected … Continue reading

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Reagan Idea Could Reform Invisible Bureaucracy

(Editor’s note: Virginia has the largest percentage of federal government employees than any other state. Don Devine was the Director of the Office of Personnel Management under President Reagan.) It is official. Total Federal civilian government personnel have increased from … Continue reading

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What's The Real Unemployment Rate?

The national unemployment rate continues to improve, but don’t tell that to people who are jobless and looking for work. Many of today’s unemployed, particularly those who are younger, have a more negative view of the labor market. Who’s right? … Continue reading

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Roanoke Gets Serious About Competing for Young Professionals

Roanokers know they have a challenge stemming the drain of educated young people, just like every other small metropolitan area in the United States. At least they’re asking the right questions: What does it take to recruit and retain young … Continue reading

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Do Newport News Courts Threaten Virginia’s Pro-Business Reputation?

Virginia consistently ranks as one of the most business-friendly states in America, although lately we have been slipping. According to the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, since 2001, manufacturing companies have invested $14.5 billion and created more than 72,000 new jobs … Continue reading

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