Author Archives: Stephen D. Haner

About Stephen D. Haner

Stephen D. Haner is Senior Fellow for State and Local Tax Policy at the Thomas Jefferson Institute for Public Policy. He may be reached at [email protected].

Energy Reform Agenda Inspires Multiple Pending Bills

Posted on January 31, 2022 by Stephen D. Haner

The highest priority on a Virginia energy reform agenda proposed a few weeks ago was restoring State Corporation Commission oversight over decisions on massive renewable energy investments.  Under current law, the General Assembly has basically dictated billions of dollars in … Continue reading →

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The Largest Tax Relief Ever Given…

Posted on January 25, 2022 by Stephen D. Haner

New Governor Glenn Youngkin has now submitted his tax cut proposals to the 2022 General Assembly in the form of bills and budget amendments, and if all his campaign pledges are adopted it will be the most significant tax cut … Continue reading →

Posted in Government Reform, State Government, Taxes | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Mason-Dixon Poll: RGGI Opposition Overwhelming, Includes Democrats

Posted on January 24, 2022 by Stephen D. Haner

The high consumer cost of Virginia’s forced conversion to a fossil fuel free economy remains unpopular with Republican and Independent voters, but is supported by many Democrats, a recent poll revealed. Even Democrats, however, dislike a new carbon tax that … Continue reading →

Posted in Government Reform | 1 Comment

A Change in Wind Direction on Virginia Energy Policy?

Posted on January 20, 2022 by Stephen D. Haner

“The Department of Energy, in consultation with the Department of Environmental Quality, shall analyze the life cycle of renewable energy facilities, including solar, wind, and battery storage components. The analysis shall assess the (i) feasibility, costs, recycling and salvage opportunities, … Continue reading →

Posted in Energy, Government Reform, State Government | 1 Comment

A Regulatory Path to Repeal the RGGI Carbon Tax

Posted on January 18, 2022 by Stephen D. Haner

Governor Glenn Youngkin (R) will proceed to remove Virginia from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative carbon tax compact by the same route Virginia entered it:  He will push to repeal the underlying regulation. As with much else in his promised … Continue reading →

Posted in Energy, Environment, Government Reform, State Government, Taxes | Comments Off on A Regulatory Path to Repeal the RGGI Carbon Tax