Author Archives: matt ohern

Confusion, Silence Will Earn Business Higher Taxes

“I’m not going to get into it unless anybody wants me to.” So said Kristin Collins, policy development director for the Virginia Department of Taxation, as she neared the end of her November 19 slide presentation on federal tax conformity … Continue reading

Posted in Taxes | Comments Off on Confusion, Silence Will Earn Business Higher Taxes

What Kind of Infrastructure Bill Might Pass a Divided Congress?

In the wake of the November 6th election results, there is renewed talk of a national infrastructure bill. The day after the election, likely House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D, CA) announced that major infrastructure legislation will be high on the … Continue reading

Posted in Transportation | Comments Off on What Kind of Infrastructure Bill Might Pass a Divided Congress?

CAFO emissions need not be reported

Environmental groups are again suing EPA over its decision that air emissions from Concentrated Animal feeding operations (CAFOs) do not need to be reported to the public under federal statute. EPA’s Emergency Preparedness and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) requires that … Continue reading

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Give thanks that we no longer live on the precipice

Thanksgiving is a good time to express our sincere gratitude that we no longer “enjoy” the “simpler life of yesteryear.” As my grandmother said, “The only good thing about the good old days is that they’re gone.” For countless millennia, … Continue reading

Posted in Economic Development, Economy | Comments Off on Give thanks that we no longer live on the precipice

Virginia Should Avoid Frivolous Climate Litigation

Is the company that makes ladders legally responsible if you fall off of one?  Or if you cut yourself picking up broken glass, is the maker of that glass legally liable?  You probably think such lawsuits would be “silly” and … Continue reading

Posted in Energy, Environment | Comments Off on Virginia Should Avoid Frivolous Climate Litigation