In an effort to keep you informed about issues which I've received phone calls and emails on, I have decided to add a section to the Rust Report entitled, "What I've Been Asked About..."  Each issue of the Rust Report will highlight an area which I think residents might be interested in learning more about.

"What I've Been Asked about on Healthcare..."
 
I've been asked recently about health care in Virginia, particularly Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS is Virginia's program that helps families provide health insurance to their children) and Medicaid.  I'm proud to say that FAMIS has been increased several times with my support since I joined the General Assembly in 2002.  I was one of the "mavericks" who rewrote the 2004 budget which increased and continues to increase funding for FAMIS and restored cuts to both Medicare and Medicaid.  It was one of the core issues of that 'fight'.  This year's budget (FY10) had substantial cuts to Medicare/Medicaid as proposed by Governor Kaine but they were restored by the General Assembly with my support.  Specifically on FAMIS, I supported the increase in 2006 for FAMIS to 166% of the federal poverty level.  In 2007, I voted to again increase to 185% of the federal poverty level.  The bipartisan vote on the amendment was 68-28.  In 2008, I voted to level fund (not cut) the program due to the budget shortfalls.  Finally, Mental Retardation waivers (MR's) have been increased almost every year with my support.  Unfortunately, the Governor just a week ago cut 100 of the MR waiver slots due to a continuing decrease in revenues.
 
LINK Food Drive
 
My wife, Ann, recently read an article about how local food banks are in desperate need of food donations and she suggested having a food drive for LINK.  I contacted LINK and they are excited about our effort.  We've decided to run the food drive in conjunction with the Herndon Homecoming on October 3rd.  During the Homecoming Parade, we will literally be having a Food Drive and we encourage everyone to bring non-perishable food to the parade - we'll be picking it up in children's wagons along the route.  That afternoon at the Herndon High School football game, we will be collecting donations at the game. And from now until Friday, October 2nd we will be collecting non-perishable food donations at my legislative office, 730 Elden Street.  
 
Drivers using the eastbound Dulles Toll Road may experience delays beginning Sept 22 for approximately 4-5 days.  The eastbound right lane between Beulah and Trap Roads, just west of Wolf Trap Farm Park, will be closed because of construction for the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project.  For more information, you can visit their website at www.dullesmetro.com.
 
Whether you're away from home or just can't make it to the polls, voting absentee lets you make sure your voice is heard.  This is especially important for our military personnel.  You can request an absentee ballot by going to the Virginia State Board of Elections website, http://www.sbe.virginia.gov/cms/Absentee_Voting/Index.html or by contacting our office at 703-437-1871.  Military personnel can also visit  www.projectvirginia.com/military-vote.   
We Won!

"Virginia is for Lovers' was inducted into the National Advertising Walk of Fame on September 21.  This is a huge honor and was one of only two iconic slogans to be inducted this year.  Other entries included:  Nike-Just Do It; Got Milk?; and What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas - so the competition was tough!   
 
This past week I had the privilege of addressing 4-6th grade students at Oak Hill Elementary School as part of America's Legislators Back to School program.  The program is part of a nationwide effort to educate students about how our system of democracy works and engage them in the government process.  I was honored to be asked to appear before the students to talk about Virginia's government.  Not only did they know the answers to many questions I asked them, but they asked many pertinent questions as well.  The students were engaging, inquisitive, and polite - a testament to their parents and teachers.
 
As always, please do not hesitate to contact me on matters that concern you.
 
Warm regards,