21st Century Economy

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Read below to see a list of known issues facing SWVA. Everywhere in the USA faces problems, but these are the ones that affect grandma and grandpa, your family, and your community. It's critical we understand what's going on locally, so we can best change this future we are facing.

Current Issues in Southwest Virginia

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<h5 style="text-align: center">That ends WITH US.</h5>I’m running for this district because I believe we deserve better. I believe that every single resident of SWVA deserves to feel represented, to feel heard, and to know that their concerns are being taken seriously.Never again will a voice in this district go unanswered. Never again will a need be dismissed. <h5 style="text-align: center">I pledge to you: </h5>I will respond to every correspondence, every concern. And I promise you this: every communication you send will have a direct connection to me. You’ll know that your message is being read, understood, and acted upon.Day or night, we will make it right. No issue is too small when it comes to representing the Americans of the Ninth. Because your struggles are my struggles, and your successes will be celebrated as our successes.We’re not just running for office; we’re fighting for a future. A future where hard work is rewarded, where families can thrive, and where every single American has the opportunity to reach their full potential.<h4 style="text-align: center">Let’s take back our future that’s been stolen. Let’s create the best possible American future, together!</h4>

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"We have always held to the hope, the belief, the conviction that there is a better life, a better world, beyond the horizon.""Let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us."–Franklin D. Roosevelt

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<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8275a43f-b49b-47f3-bda5-11512b8f3d1f/4e03ce1e-4659-48c2-a309-6eec0c23a423/4e03ce1e-4659-48c2-a309-6eec0c23a423.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=1055%2C755%2C4335%2C3269&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Grandma and my beautiful wife, Carly, at our Wedding" align="middle" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Grandma and my beautiful wife, Carly, at our Wedding<h2 style="text-align: center">The system is rigged against the average American. I am tired of seeing Americans crushed!</h2><h3 style="text-align: center">Once upon a time there used to be this idea of an American Dream, a promise so strong it moved millions of immigrants to the USA.</h3><h3 style="text-align: center">Now the American Dream feels distant, almost impossible. As George Carlin would say about it, "...because you have to be asleep to believe it."</h3><h3 style="text-align: center">America has lost its way through corruption and self-interest.</h3>Our nation faces a profound representation problem in Congress. Too often, those in power lack a direct connection to the realities faced by working families. They haven't lived the experiences that shape the challenges we face today, and their policies often reflect a disconnect from the struggles of everyday Americans.They are out of touch with what most Americans experience, and they aren't representing the working class anymore. They haven't lived the modern American life they help create.They don't see how many people of us are struggling week to week. 70% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck and wages have functionally been stagnant for 50 years.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8275a43f-b49b-47f3-bda5-11512b8f3d1f/a96997c6-42b2-4161-b675-f7e15a9d720d/a96997c6-42b2-4161-b675-f7e15a9d720d.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=164%2C100%2C1884%2C1436&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Shrek and his Donkey" align="left" alignwidth="50" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Shrek and his DonkeyThey don't see how by ignoring climate change they simply force the doomsday clock unto us all.They don't see us, and they certainly don't seem to care. I’m running for the families who’ve done everything right but still their problems go unaddressed, for my community, for my family, and for the best possible American future we all deserve, one built on fairness, opportunity, and a government that truly represents the people.I graduated from Western Governor's University in 2017 with a Bachelors of Science in Software Development. That career has catapulted me into working on some large insurance software programs at AAA where I met my wife, to building out multi-billion dollar software solutions in the investment/derivative space at my current employer. I have worked in-between those in the manufacturing and aerospace sectors, and with consumer products and medical services for a time building web apps.My career in software development has given me a unique perspective. I have seen how corporations operate, some of the worst and some of the best. I know the type of loopholes and language they exploit.I have years of experience helping corporations build their economic futures. Let me help build yours, too!Now, I wasn't always a programmer writing critical system logic. My first job was a bagger and cart collector at a local grocery store (they called us courtesy clerks). My second was at Best Buy. My third job was a dog bather at Petsmart (that was hard, tip your groomers man!). I have never forgotten where I have come from: 5th generation Irish immigrant, son of a farmer and factory worker who became insurance salespeople and flight attendant, have had family who served in WW2, Vietnam, Cold, Gulf, and modern wars: I am proud to be American, and I will never forget the sacrifices of those who built the world we know today.I have had years where I had no health care, we were one of those unfortunate families who lost their homes in the 2008 Housing Crisis, and I have seen family members sell property to pay for medical care/debt; I have seen the cracks in the system, ones we must fill so that the rising tide of a booming American economy might lift all ships. The benefit of my technological and programming experience is that I can put my money where my mouth is and actually demonstrate our elected officials insane lack of understanding of the digital world and the insane risk that places us all under. We can build policies and plans for the 21st Century, not just what worked post-WW2 or what some party pushes. Real solutions for working people, centered around safeguarding Americans from the offenses of corporations or government overreach.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8275a43f-b49b-47f3-bda5-11512b8f3d1f/34cfd8e6-74ab-494b-8be4-6f600bee7876/f1aad0e9-452a-4231-9f84-3ecfc26d811e.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C1252%2C4055%2C1478&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="middle" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed"><h4>I don't walk this path alone; an incredible team of locals from SWVA keep us on the straight and narrow.</h4>Every advisor, every volunteer lives in SWVA. To win here in District 9, we must connect directly with the people and that means everyday people who live their lives here in Appalachia, and so who better to advise and help connect us than people who are stepping up to make a real difference for their communities. This cutting-edge local connection will enable us to rapidly respond and address local concerns for our district far faster than any prior Congressman of the Ninth. No one gets left behind; we are all going to best possible American future.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8275a43f-b49b-47f3-bda5-11512b8f3d1f/4d4b18a8-2a8e-4e4f-ab89-f5bfdfeef30e/4d4b18a8-2a8e-4e4f-ab89-f5bfdfeef30e.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4928%2C3264&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="middle" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Check back later to see the team's bios go up!

Dozens of local organizations and leaders are standing together!

Adam Murphy for Virginia's 9th Congressional

President, Martinsville NAACP

Naomi Hodgemuse

Former VA LT. Governor Candidate

Alex Bastani

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<h2 style="text-align: center">Universal Paid Time Off</h2>Families are the backbone of America. A direct connection to the past and the future. It is a tragedy that Americans work so hard and do not get more guaranteed time off. Corporations constantly take advantage and deprive people of peaceful days off or just basic human considerations. Germans get 20, plus holidays. Norway gets almost a whole year of paternal and maternal care. There is no reason the US cannot offer her people that as part of the 21st Century Deal, as the family is key for one's pursuit of happiness.<h4>National Paid Parental Leave Program:</h4><ul><li>Duration: 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave for all new parents (birth, adoption, foster care).</li><li>Wage Replacement: Wage replacement at 80% of average weekly wages, capped at a reasonable level to ensure program sustainability.</li></ul><h4>National Paid Time Off Program:</h4><ul><li>Minimum Standard: Guarantee a minimum of 15 PTO days of any kind, 5 days of paid sick leave, and 5 days for bereavement per year for all employees.</li><li>Carryover: Allow employees to carry over unused sick leave to the following year, up to a reasonable limit.</li><li>Portability: Ensure that leave benefits are portable, allowing workers to maintain their leave accrual when changing jobs.</li><li>Funding: Funded through a combination of payroll taxes (shared between employers and employees), and general revenue.</li></ul><h4>Small Business Support:</h4><ul><li>Tax Credits: Provide tax credits to small businesses to offset the costs of providing paid leave.</li><li>Technical Assistance: Offer technical assistance and training to help small businesses implement the policy.</li><li>Simplified Administration: Develop a simplified administrative process to minimize the burden on small businesses.</li></ul><h4>Equity &amp; Inclusion Provisions:</h4><ul><li>Outreach &amp; Education: Targeted outreach and education programs to ensure that all families, particularly those from underserved communities, are aware of their rights and benefits.</li><li>Language Accessibility: Provide information and support in multiple languages.</li><li>Data Collection: Collect data on program participation and outcomes to identify and address any disparities.</li></ul><h4>Economic Benefits:</h4><ul><li>Increased Workforce Participation: Encourages women to return to the workforce, boosting economic productivity.</li><li>Reduced Turnover: Decreases employee turnover, saving businesses recruitment and training costs.</li><li>Improved Child Health &amp; Development: Supports healthy child development and strengthens families.</li><li>Stimulated Economic Activity: Increases consumer spending and stimulates economic activity.</li></ul>

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Medicare-for-All

Universal Parental Leave and PTO

Rural Healthcare Support

Rural Broadband Access

Protecting Our Environment

$10,000 First Time Homeowner Credit

AI Regulation

Protecting your Constitutional Rights

Living Wage

Reproductive Freedom

LGBT Rights

Community Revitalization Centers &amp; Programs

Infrastructure Investment for Job Creation

Right to Repair

Rural Wage Cost of Living Adjustment

Strengthen Unions

<h3>Fighting for Our Future</h3>Our campaign is built on the promise of a 21st Century DealInspired by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, this plan focuses on investing in our people, strengthening our communities, and building a strong, sustainable economy for the 21st Century and beyond.The 21st Century Deal seeks to secure the best possible future for Virginia’s 9th Congressional District and the USA by supporting policies that prioritize all working families, foster broad economic opportunity, and build a strong and connected community for generations to come.Click any of the points to the right to learn more about the full policy position and how they fit into your Deal.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/8275a43f-b49b-47f3-bda5-11512b8f3d1f/133cb5ba-7e30-4354-a52f-358214ee8160/133cb5ba-7e30-4354-a52f-358214ee8160.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C3300%2C552&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="middle" alignwidth="50" tiltdirection="left" variant="base">

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Protecting your Constitutional Rights

<h2>How to handle donations on your website</h2>Run does not process donations directly on our platform, as is standard with most political and advocacy sites. Campaigns are often required to comply with reporting requirements, donation limits, and other regulations, so using a donation processor that specializes in serving campaigns is generally a good idea. Sign up with a donation processor and then on your Pages sidebar, click the Link icon on the Donate page and add the link to your donation page. Some common options for donation processing include:<ul><li><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">ActBlue</a></li><li><a href="https://www.campaigndeputy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Campaign Deputy</a> </li><li><a href="https://goodchange.app/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">GoodChange</a></li><li><a href="https://numero.ai/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Numero</a></li></ul>

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<h2>A Living Wage for a 21st Century Deal</h2>The promise of the American Dream is slipping away for too many families. <a href="/a74f5457-5b76-4399-9c0c-267a9f60ab70/0d93f2a3-feb6-431a-8cee-e24c89092a46#block-c47ee181-9ba6-48f2-864e-91ad26427af8">Stagnant wages, rising costs, and massive financial debt &amp; burdens are undermining the foundations of our society</a>.A living wage is a promise, that human labor is rewarded with a wage that guarantees a fair shot at Life and the Pursuit of Happiness. It's about ensuring that Americans who work full-time can afford the basic necessities of life. It’s about restoring dignity and stability to families struggling to make ends meet. It’s about recognizing the inherent value of human work and rewarding it fairly and squarely. This is why the Living Wage is a cornerstone of the 21st Century Deal.1968: $1.60/hour * 40 hours/week = $64.00/week<a href="https://www.bls.gov/data/inflation_calculator.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">1968: $1.60/hour-&gt; 2025 CPI Adjust minimum wage: 15.13/hour</a><a href="https://www.minneapolisfed.org/about-us/monetary-policy/inflation-calculator" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">1968: $1.60/hour-&gt; 2025 Inflation Adjust minimum wage: 14.82/hour</a>If we bring productivity into the equation and the cost of housing alone, minimum wage should be way higher for the standard of life we deserve. So let's meet in the middle at $20/hour Living Wage.<h5>The Benefits Extend Far Beyond the Individual</h5><ul><li>When people have more money in their pockets, they spend it, stimulating local businesses and creating jobs.</li><li>A living wage will lift millions out of poverty and narrow the gap between the rich and the poor.</li><li>Financial stress is a major contributor to poor health outcomes.</li><li>A living wage will reduce stress and improve overall health.</li><li>When workers are paid fairly, they are also more motivated and productive.</li><li>A living wage will reduce the need for public assistance programs, saving taxpayer dollars.</li><li>We can shield wage increases from cost of living increases</li></ul>

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Raising the wage floor isn’t just good for workers; it’s good for our economy:

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...hindering economic development, educational opportunities, and full access the opportunities of the 21st Century. The 1996 Telecommunications Act aimed to expand broadband access through fiber optic infrastructure, but ultimately fell short due to corporations preferring mergers and acquisitions to competition. Universal Broadband Access(UBA) aims to rectify past failures and deliver reliable, affordable broadband to every household and business.

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Rural Wage Cost of Living Adjustment (RW-COLA)

Don't want to wait for emails? Feel free to reach out via our number either via TEXT or CALL. 540-315-1451 We will do our best to make sure we respond ASAP, but might not be able to take the call at any given time so preference is to text to start a conversation and then we can go from there!We will respond to your request one way or another. If your issue is urgent or time-sensitive, please send an email to <a href="mailto:firelane@murphy4va.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">firelane@murphy4va.com</a>.To donate or correspond by mail, send checks/mail made out to Murphy4Congress to: PO Box 21307, Cave Spring, VA 24018

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<h2 style="text-align: center">The American Heritage Lands &amp; Stewardship Act</h2>Recognizing the vital role of our natural landscapes in providing clean air and water, supporting biodiversity, fostering recreation, and bolstering the national economy, this Act establishes a comprehensive strategy to protect, preserve, and conserve America’s lands and environment for current and future generations. It also addresses critical workforce needs by revitalizing the Civilian Conservation Corps as a modern job placement and conservation program.<h4>Land Acquisition &amp; Expansion:</h4><ul><li>Land Acquisition Fund: Establish a dedicated Land Acquisition Fund to purchase private lands suitable for conservation, prioritizing areas with high ecological value, proximity to existing protected areas, and potential for public access.</li><li>Conservation Easements: Utilize conservation easements to protect private lands while allowing landowners to retain ownership.</li><li>Federal Land Exchange Program: Facilitate the exchange of federal lands with private landowners to optimize conservation efforts and improve public access.</li><li>Adaptive Management: Implement an adaptive management approach, regularly evaluating the effectiveness of the program and making adjustments as needed.</li><li>Balancing Conservation and Economic Development: Strike a balance between conservation goals and the economic needs of local communities.</li></ul><h4>Land Stewardship &amp; Maintenance:</h4><ul><li>National Lands Maintenance Fund: Create a National Lands Maintenance Fund to provide dedicated funding for the maintenance, restoration, and conservation of existing federal lands.</li><li>Infrastructure Improvements: Prioritize infrastructure improvements on federal lands, including trail maintenance, campground upgrades, and accessibility enhancements.</li><li>Ecosystem Restoration Projects: Fund ecosystem restoration projects to address habitat degradation, invasive species, and climate change impacts.</li><li>Climate Change Resilience: Integrate climate change resilience considerations into all conservation planning and project implementation.</li><li>Landowner Rights: Respect the rights of private landowners and provide incentives for voluntary conservation efforts.</li></ul><h4>Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Revitalization:</h4><ul><li>CCC Enrollment: Establish a CCC enrollment program targeting young adults (ages 18-40) and veterans, providing job training and placement in conservation-related fields.</li><li>CCC Project Focus: Prioritize CCC projects that address critical conservation needs, including:<ul><li>Trail construction and maintenance</li><li>Forest restoration and wildfire prevention</li><li>Habitat restoration and invasive species removal</li><li>Community infrastructure improvements (e.g., park development, water conservation projects)</li><li>Land Surveying and Licensing</li></ul></li><li>CCC Training &amp; Certification: Provide CCC participants with job training and certifications in conservation-related skills, enhancing their employability.</li><li>Local Partnerships: Foster partnerships between the CCC and local communities, ensuring that projects align with local needs and priorities.</li></ul><h4>Environmental Education &amp; Outreach:</h4><ul><li>Environmental Literacy Grants: Provide grants to schools and community organizations to promote environmental literacy and stewardship.</li><li>Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the importance of conservation and responsible land use.</li></ul><h4>Funding Mechanism:</h4><ul><li>Dedicated Conservation Tax: Implement a small dedicated tax on certain goods and services (e.g., outdoor recreation equipment, resource extraction) to fund the Land Acquisition Fund and National Lands Maintenance Fund.</li><li>Reallocation of Existing Funds: Reallocate existing funds from other government agencies to support conservation initiatives.</li><li>Private Philanthropy: Encourage private philanthropy and corporate sponsorships to supplement government funding.</li></ul>

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Recognizing the persistent challenges facing rural and underserved communities across the nation, this Act establishes a network of American Revitalization Centers (ARCs) to provide comprehensive, accessible, and integrated services, fostering economic opportunity, improving quality of life, and strengthening community resilience.ARCs can become a one size fits all approach, where the center grows based on the needs of the community. It also provides these services in regions where monopolies are formed, such as SWVA where Ballad Health currently holds regional monopoly, and underserved communities that need essential services.A basic ARC would include a USPS, a small community bank service with the ability to exchange currencies(digital or otherwise), and urgent care in counties and regions that might not have a local facility. In certain extreme areas where services are a desert, these ARCs can expand to include medical facilities such as birthing centers, or emergency care. Afterall, you deserve healthcare as a human and American right.<h4>ARC Establishment &amp; Funding:</h4><ul><li>Federal Grant Program: Establish a competitive federal grant program to fund the construction, renovation, and operation of ARCs.</li><li>Matching Funds: Require matching funds from state, local, and private sources to ensure community ownership and sustainability.</li><li>Site Selection: Prioritize sites in rural areas, economically distressed communities, and areas with limited access to essential services.</li></ul><h4>ARC Service Offerings (Flexible Configuration):</h4><ul><li>Core Services (Primary Reason for ARC - can include both depending on need):<ul><li>Urgent Care Clinic: Providing accessible and affordable healthcare services.</li><li>USPS Branch: Ensuring reliable, up-to-date postal services in underserved areas.</li></ul></li><li>Expansion Services (Potential Inclusions):<ul><li>Community Programs: Offering a range of programs, including job training, adult education, childcare, and senior services.</li><li>Community Banking Services: Providing financial literacy programs and access to banking services.</li><li>Digital Literacy Center: Providing access to computers, internet, and digital literacy training.</li></ul></li></ul><h4 style="text-align: center">Allow for customization of ARC services based on community needs assessments and local priorities.</h4><h4>Public Transit Integration:</h4><ul><li>Strategic Location: Require ARCs to be located near existing or planned public transportation routes.</li><li>Transportation Partnerships: Encourage partnerships with local transit agencies to provide discounted fares and convenient transportation options to ARC services.</li></ul><h4>Community Engagement &amp; Governance:</h4><ul><li>Local Advisory Boards: Establish local advisory boards comprised of community members, business leaders, and local government officials to provide input on ARC planning and operations.</li><li>Needs Assessments: Conduct regular community needs assessments to ensure ARC services remain responsive to evolving needs.</li></ul><h4>Sustainability &amp; Economic Development:</h4><ul><li>Job Creation: Prioritize ARC projects that create local jobs and provide training opportunities for residents.</li><li>Small Business Support: Provide support for small businesses located within or near ARCs.</li><li>Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to leverage expertise and resources.</li><li>Standardized Design Guidelines: Develop standardized design guidelines to ensure consistency and efficiency in ARC construction.</li><li>Performance Metrics: Establish performance metrics to track the impact of ARCs on community outcomes.</li><li>Technology Integration: Explore opportunities to integrate technology to enhance ARC services and improve efficiency.</li><li>Rural Broadband Access: Prioritize ARC locations with access to reliable broadband internet. <a href="/58aced8c-1567-456f-b1b3-d682671ac693#block-9d521369-4361-48c8-94a5-dc80f4bac174">Check UBA for how that would look.</a></li></ul>

<h2>The RW-COLA would be a supplemental wage adjustment for workers employed in designated rural areas, designed to offset the rising cost of living and boost the limited economic opportunities often found in those regions.</h2>Below is a summary of the idea of the RW-COLA Bill that would be introduced to bring this program to life. As always, the exact language matters and is subject to change. Note that this page is more of an actual bill summary compared to other pages on the site to show how exactly this might work, and that we can have the government work for people, you know, the whole point of the job. There will be a possible initial draft for Virginia midway through that is tailored to our state to benefit the counties of the Ninth District the most.The Rural Wage Cost of Living Adjustment (RW-COLA) Program is established to address the disproportionately high cost of living and limited economic opportunities in designated rural areas of Virginia and other such locations around the USA. The program aims to improve the affordability of living and working in these areas, attract and retain essential workers, and stimulate local economic development.

The RW-COLA would be a supplemental wage adjustment for workers employed in designated rural areas, designed to offset the higher cost of living

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<h4>Beyond the Bill of Rights: Addressing Modern Threats</h4>The bedrock of our nation is the Constitution, our living document that guarantees our fundamental rights and freedoms. However, those rights aren’t self-enforcing. They require constant vigilance and a commitment to defending them against erosion, both from government overreach and from the challenges of a rapidly changing world and corporate abuse. The 21st Century Deal safeguards the very principles that make that fair shot possible, ensuring everyone economic opportunity no matter what.While the Bill of Rights and our Constitutional rights remain vital, the threats to our freedoms have evolved. We’re seeing increased surveillance and digital privacy violations, limitations on freedom of assembly, and challenges to freedom of the press. Our commitment to protecting your constitutional rights goes beyond simply upholding the existing framework; we mean to proactively address these modern threats. Something very few in Congress even understand, let alone could do.<h4>Your Rights, Our Responsibility:</h4>Protecting your constitutional rights is supposed to be the government’s responsibility, but when your government is barely functioning for most Americans, then it becomes a shared responsibility to ensure the pillars of American democracy hold true.<h4 style="text-align: center">We believe all humans are created equal and endowed certain unalienable rights: first among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.</h4>We must never forget this ideal that built our Republic.We are committed to empowering citizens with the knowledge and resources they need to understand their rights and advocate for themselves. We will support organizations that provide legal assistance and promote civic engagement.Your voice matters. Stand with us in defending the Constitution and building a more just and equitable society for all.Longer-term even still is we would seek a 21st Century Bill of Rights to be amended to the US Constitution that would protect Americans for the 21st Century and beyond, guaranteeing rights with the emerging technologies and changes we all face.

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<h2 style="text-align: center">Universal Broadband Access</h2><h4>Targeted Infrastructure Investment:</h4><ul><li>Grant Program: Establish a competitive grant program prioritizing projects utilizing a mix of technologies (fiber, fixed wireless, satellite) based on terrain and cost-effectiveness.</li><li>"Dig Once" Mandate: Require all new road construction and utility projects to include conduit for future broadband deployment, minimizing disruption and costs.</li><li>Fiber-First Approach: Prioritize fiber optic deployment where feasible, recognizing its long-term benefits and future-proofing capabilities.</li></ul><h4>Affordability &amp; Digital Literacy:</h4><ul><li>Affordability Program: Expand existing affordability programs to ensure low-income households can access broadband services.</li><li>Digital Literacy Training: Provide digital literacy training programs to equip residents with the skills to utilize broadband effectively.</li></ul><h4>Accountability &amp; Oversight:</h4><ul><li>Independent Broadband Authority: Create an independent broadband authority to oversee implementation, monitor performance, and ensure accountability.</li><li>Regular Reporting: Require regular reporting on progress, challenges, and outcomes to the public and Congress.</li><li>Strong Enforcement: Getting funding will require signing performance contracts and meeting timelines</li></ul>Key Difference from 1996: This policy emphasizes realistic timelines, local control, performance-based contracts, and ongoing accountability with other enforcement mechanisms to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.Addressing Past Failures:<ul><li>Realistic Timelines: Implement phased deployment plans with clear milestones and accountability measures, avoiding the overly ambitious timelines of the 1996 rollout.</li><li>Local Expertise: Require grant applicants to demonstrate local knowledge and engagement with community stakeholders.</li><li>Public Option: Allow for communities to create their own local telecommunications providers, subject to the same rules as the corporations.</li><li>Performance-Based Contracts: Structure contracts with providers based on performance metrics (speed, reliability, affordability) rather than solely on construction milestones</li></ul>

Don't want to wait for emails? Feel free to reach out via our number either via TEXT or CALL. 540-798-0245 We will do our best to make sure we respond ASAP, but might not be able to take the call at any given time so preference is to text to start a conversation and then we can go from there!We will respond to your request one way or another. If your issue is urgent or time-sensitive, please send an email to <a href="mailto:firelane@murphy4va.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">firelane@murphy4va.com</a>.To donate or correspond by mail, send checks/mail made out to Murphy4Congress to: PO Box 21307, Cave Spring, VA 24018

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Appalachian Dispatch

Across this country, Americans are feeling abandoned. We all feel like the system is rigged against us, that our voices aren’t being heard, and that our needs are being ignored.And here in Southwest Virginia, too many of us have felt that frustration, that sense of being overlooked and getting stock replies instead of real answers.

<h2>A Phased Approach for Sustainable Growth</h2>Our 21st Century Deal proposes a phased approach to raising the wage floor, ensuring a smooth transition for businesses and minimizing potential disruptions. This phased approach will:<ul><li>The Minimum becomes the Living Wage: Federal minimum wage would raise to 20 dollars an hour over 5 years, and adjust the wage, based around the cycle of the census, from the updated inflation/cost of living increases over that last decade.</li><li>Provide Businesses with Time to Adjust: Allowing businesses time to adapt to the new wage floor will minimize potential negative impacts. Roll the Living Wage increases at the start over 5 years, and then adjust the wage every census from inflation/cost of living increases. These long time horizons will prevent any potential inflation in the Living Wage adjustments, will making sure it doesn't take decades for wages to keep up.</li><li>Prioritize Small Businesses: Special considerations will be made for small businesses, recognizing their unique challenges. Employers with under 20 employees and under certain revenue levels (<a href="https://www.sba.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">would use SBA standards for initial assessment</a>) would be able to get assistance to met the Living Wage increases for their employees so as to maintain the economy of the region and keep businesses open, all while make it easier to start new business. This assistance would be paid for by a small tax on only large corporations, leveling the playing field.</li><li>Combine with Workforce Development: Pairing a Living Wage with robust workforce development programs will ensure that workers have the skills they need to succeed. <a href="/131b51e0-2f4c-4bf8-b3c9-ae8895131a15">See Transforming Public Education to see how that might work.</a></li><li>Protect the Living Wage from Cost Of Living Increases: This bill or a supplemental bill could be passed to also restrict rent increases gained by raising wages, and instead caps them to half the rate of inflation. So rent would be locked from going up more than half of what inflation was that year. So 2% yearly inflation equates to max 1% rent increase costs.</li></ul><h4>Investing in Our Future: A Foundation for a Stronger America</h4>A Living Wage's express purpose is about investing in our future, our human future. It will create a more equitable and prosperous society for all Americans. The Living Wage builds the foundation for a stronger, more resilient America: an America where everyone has a fair shot to get ahead!

These are some of the policies our campaign knows will bring the most amount of long-term, positive change to SWVA. It's about putting you and your family first. Policies that pave the path to the best possible American future. Read further below for a full list.

Fighting for Our Community

<a href="/958cacf5-f79c-4e61-aa76-629c19fb150c">Eliminate</a> premiums, co-pays, and deductibles which puts thousands back in your pocket each year while saving trillions federally.<a href="/958cacf5-f79c-4e61-aa76-629c19fb150c">Guarantee</a> access to doctors, hospitals, and vital care, especially in rural areas<a href="/958cacf5-f79c-4e61-aa76-629c19fb150c">Free up</a> resources for local businesses and create a healthier, more prosperous Southwest Virginia.

<a href="/909418cf-9074-4043-8fbf-01a4b36385e0">Guarantee</a> paid time off for new parents, ensuring financial stability and bonding time.Reduce stress and improve the well-being of families across Southwest Virginia.Provide <a href="/909418cf-9074-4043-8fbf-01a4b36385e0#block-aa46a55e-2fbb-45ec-9de9-b82ad6e940e1">support for Americans</a> to live their life without interference during major life events.

Build infrastructure, <a href="/58aced8c-1567-456f-b1b3-d682671ac693">fully expand high-speed broadband</a>, and support local businesses.Tackle local problems, improve housing &amp; infrastructure, and expand access to essential servicesInvest in education, healthcare, and clean energy for a thriving SWVA.

Direct Community Investment

<a href="/3f5af59c-6487-46a0-b8dd-7b6bb13686da">Help families</a> meet basic needs and escape poverty.Put <a href="/3f5af59c-6487-46a0-b8dd-7b6bb13686da">more money</a> in the pockets of working families, who will spend it locally, while protecting these wage increases from things like rent raises.<a href="/3f5af59c-6487-46a0-b8dd-7b6bb13686da">Help small business</a> cover the increase in wages so they can continue to provide essential services while paying their employees well

Bring doctors and specialists to underserved areas with <a href="/ba788125-d225-4b05-857d-e407862468ae">rural adjusted cost of living</a> for certain jobs similar to how it works for citiesCreate jobs and build up rural hospitals and clinics.<a href="/958cacf5-f79c-4e61-aa76-629c19fb150c#block-d42b37c2-70d3-45de-a621-a9d79ec1b58f">Ensure everyone in SWVA can get the care they need no matter what.</a> You deserve it as an American citizen.

Build a <a href="/35b27476-a311-44e7-be85-4ad901a767bf">new booming, clean energy economy</a> right here in SWVA.<a href="/bad90c55-be14-4e75-9e8d-2b43e9197150">Preserve and protect</a> our mountains, forests, and clean water.Reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets while leveraging our remaining strategic reserve as a trading resource.<a href="/35b27476-a311-44e7-be85-4ad901a767bf">Create a healthier and more sustainable future</a> for generations to come.

Building the Best Sustainable Future

<a href="/c9b0ff54-7d7e-4a1f-b021-56b14934a6be">Help families</a> overcome the biggest hurdle: the down payment.Help families <a href="/c9b0ff54-7d7e-4a1f-b021-56b14934a6be">build financial security and generational wealth</a>.Can be doubled in certain situations.

<a href="/522079e3-faf8-472e-a2ec-c6b1d7dc049a">Safeguards</a> against government overreach and protects individual liberties, such as the 1st and 2nd amendment.Creates a stable environment for businesses and fosters American innovation &amp; unity.Upholds the values of <a href="/522079e3-faf8-472e-a2ec-c6b1d7dc049a">freedom, equality, and opportunity</a> for all in SWVA and the USA.

Deal Grid

Medicare-For-All

<h4>Addressing Concerns for Healthcare Support:</h4><ul><li>Provider Reimbursement: Reimbursement rates for providers will be adjusted to ensure financial stability while controlling costs.</li><li>Provider Choice: You will have freedom to choose your own medical professional, not have the government make the choice for you. Medicare for all is only acting as insurance, except that it will accept any medical choice your doctor thinks is best and that you consent to treatment on.</li><li>Wait Times: Measures will be implemented to prevent and address potential wait times, such as expanding the healthcare workforce and incentivizing care delivery in underserved areas, perhaps with measures like <a href="/ba788125-d225-4b05-857d-e407862468ae">RW-COLA</a>.</li><li>Innovation: A dedicated fund will support medical research and innovation to ensure continued advancements in healthcare.</li></ul>Conclusion:Medicare for All offers a fiscally responsible and morally imperative solution to America’s healthcare crisis. By streamlining administration, negotiating drug prices, and prioritizing preventative care, Medicare for All will save trillions of dollars while ensuring that every American has access to quality, efficient, universal healthcare.

Healthcare Support

Accouncments

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<h2>The Digital Lifespan Act</h2>Recognizing the growing environmental and economic burdens of planned obsolescence and restricted repair options, the Digital Lifespan Act establishes a fundamental right for consumers and producers to repair the products they own. This Act promotes sustainability, fosters innovation, and empowers individuals and communities to control the lifespan of their technology.<h4>Right to Repair Mandates:</h4><ul><li>Access to Parts &amp; Information: Manufacturers must provide consumers and independent repair providers with access to genuine parts, diagnostic software, repair manuals, and service bulletins at fair and reasonable prices.</li><li>Software Unlock Codes: Manufacturers must provide unlock codes or other necessary software tools to allow consumers and independent repair providers to bypass manufacturer-imposed restrictions on repair.</li><li>Agricultural Equipment Exemption: Farmers and agricultural businesses are explicitly granted the right to repair their own agricultural equipment, including access to parts, diagnostic tools, and software, without requiring authorization from the manufacturer.</li></ul><h4>Minimum Support &amp; Warranty Requirements:</h4><ul><li>Consumer Electronics: All consumer electronics sold in the United States must be supported for a minimum of five (5) years, including software updates and security patches. The warranty period must be a minimum of three (3) years.</li><li>Computer &amp; Calculator Devices: All computer and calculator devices sold in the United States must receive software support for a minimum of seven (7) years, including security updates and bug fixes. The warranty period must be a minimum of five (5) years.</li></ul><h4>Anti-Monopoly Provisions:</h4><ul><li>Prohibition of Repair Restrictions: Manufacturers are prohibited from using software or hardware restrictions to prevent consumers or independent repair providers from repairing their products.</li><li>Fair Competition Enforcement: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is empowered to investigate and prosecute manufacturers who violate the provisions of this Act.</li></ul><h4>Transparency &amp; Disclosure:</h4><ul><li>Repairability Scores: Manufacturers are required to provide repairability scores for their products, indicating the ease of repair and availability of parts.</li><li>End-of-Life Information: Manufacturers must provide clear and accessible information about the end-of-life options for their products, including recycling and refurbishment programs.</li><li>FTC Enforcement: Allocate funding to the FTC to enforce the provisions of this Act.</li><li>State-Level Initiatives: Encourage states to adopt complementary right-to-repair legislation.</li></ul><h4>Notes for Further Refinement:</h4><ul><li>Scope of Covered Products: Define the specific categories of products covered by this Act.</li><li>Data Security Considerations: Address data security concerns related to third-party repairs.</li><li>Intellectual Property Protections: Balance right-to-repair provisions with intellectual property protections.</li><li>Manufacturer Opposition: Anticipate and address potential opposition from manufacturers.</li><li>Implementation Challenges: Develop clear guidelines and procedures for implementing the provisions of this Act.</li><li>Consumer Education: Educate consumers about their right to repair and the benefits of sustainable technology practices.</li></ul>

Issues

<h2 style="text-align: center">The Future Economy, Being Built Today in America</h2>The 21st Century demands a bold vision for America’s future: one built on a foundation of resilient infrastructure, a thriving clean energy economy, and a commitment to American innovation. The American Renewal &amp; Energy Infrastructure Act will revitalize our nation’s physical and technological backbone, create millions of good-paying jobs, position the United States as a global leader in clean energy technologies, and finally out-compete China in these markets on the world stage.Passage of such a bill also means the through the boosted economy, millions of Americans will see their nation be taken care of, roads finally serviced, new bridges, interstates, and railways built, airports improved and flight safety improved. Our national &amp; state parks will be maintained, and our communities kept clean.Electricity &amp; gas costs continue to rise at an astronomical rate. With renewable energy there is a path to a zero cost energy bill for average residential users.<h3 style="text-align: center">Policy Pillars</h3><h4>Clean &amp; Green Energy Infrastructure Fund:</h4><ul><li>Solar Power: Funding for large-scale solar farms, rooftop solar installations, and solar manufacturing facilities.</li><li>Wind Power: Investment in onshore and offshore wind farms, wind turbine manufacturing, and grid modernization to accommodate intermittent wind energy.</li><li>Hydropower: Upgrades to existing hydropower facilities and exploration of environmentally responsible new hydropower projects.</li><li>Fusion Energy: Significant funding for research, development, and demonstration projects focused on achieving commercially viable fusion energy.</li><li>Energy Storage: Investment in battery storage, pumped hydro storage, and other energy storage technologies to ensure grid stability and reliability.</li><li>Nuclear Energy: Investment in existing nuclear power plant upgrades and safety enhancements, research and development of advanced nuclear reactor designs (e.g., small modular reactors, Generation IV reactors), and exploration of nuclear waste recycling and disposal solutions in communities that want this.</li></ul><h4>National Infrastructure Modernization Program:</h4><ul><li>Roads &amp; Bridges: Repair and replacement of aging roads and bridges, with a focus on incorporating sustainable materials and design principles.</li><li>Public Transportation: Expansion of public transportation systems, including high-speed rail, light rail, and bus rapid transit.</li><li>Water Infrastructure: Upgrades to water treatment plants, pipelines, and stormwater management systems.</li><li>Broadband Access: Expansion of high-speed broadband internet access to underserved communities. Can be covered first under <a href="/58aced8c-1567-456f-b1b3-d682671ac693#block-9d521369-4361-48c8-94a5-dc80f4bac174">UBA</a>, and might be its own bill.</li></ul><h4>Workforce Development &amp; Training:</h4><ul><li>Apprenticeship Programs: Creation of apprenticeship programs to train workers for jobs in infrastructure and green energy sectors.</li><li>Community College Partnerships: Partnerships between community colleges and industry to develop training programs tailored to local workforce needs.</li><li>Targeted Hiring Initiatives: Initiatives to prioritize hiring from underserved communities and veteran populations.</li><li>Can coordinate with the CCC: See <a href="/6d83278e-9db6-48d8-a9aa-b0f7669c340a#block-e7e39374-0dc4-40fe-a3cc-26af50560928">Protecting our Lands &amp; Environment</a> to see how refunding the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) would also allow them to be contracted for certain projects here.</li></ul><h4>Funding Mechanism:</h4><ul><li>Federal Investment: Significant federal investment, funded through a combination of general revenue and targeted taxes (e.g., carbon tax, tax on financial transactions).</li><li>State &amp; Local Matching Funds: Requirement for state and local governments to provide matching funds for eligible projects.</li><li>Private Sector Partnerships: Encouragement of private sector investment through tax incentives and public-private partnerships.</li><li>Responsible Nuclear Integration: Investment in existing nuclear facilities, alongside research into advanced reactor technologies and responsible waste management solutions, to ensure a safe and sustainable nuclear energy future.</li></ul>

<h2>Home ownership is key to generational wealth in America</h2>I want American's owning if they can over renting. Of course if you want to rent, or it fits your situation, then you feel free to keep renting! But owning a home is so important to financial security and unlocking generational wealth for your family, every American deserves to own a home, and the government can help those first time owners who are of need, get that first step.Direct Credit: Provide a one-time credit of $10,000 directly to eligible homebuyers at closing.This credit can be combined with certain FHA and other loan programs, as long as you are eligible for both.In certain situation the credit can be increased/doubled, such as for married couples who are both a first time buyer, or in helping historically disadvantaged groups get into home ownership. This ensures that everyone has a fair shot to get ahead.Eligibility Requirements:<ul><li>First-Time Homebuyer: Must not have owned a home in the past three years.</li><li>Income Limits: Establish income limits based on area median income (AMI) to ensure the credit benefits those most in need. (e.g., 160% AMI or lower).</li><li>Purchase Price Limits: Set maximum purchase price limits to prevent the credit from benefiting high-income buyers. Limits like 110% of median cost of housing (so mansions would never qualify)</li><li>Homebuyer Education: Require completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course.</li><li>Credit Score Requirements: Establish minimum credit score requirements to ensure responsible borrowing.</li><li>Residency Requirements: Preference given to applicants who have lived or worked in the 9th District for a certain period.</li></ul><h4>Now how would we fund a program like this you ask?</h4><h4>Corporate Real Estate Speculation Tax</h4><ul><li>What it is: A tax levied on corporations (not individuals) that profit significantly from the rapid appreciation of real estate, particularly in areas experiencing gentrification or speculative investment.</li><li>Targets large corporations, not individuals, and focuses on profits derived from real estate speculation, which often benefits large investors and developers.</li><li>How it works: The tax would be triggered when a corporation sells a property within a defined timeframe (e.g., 5 years) after purchase, and the sale price exceeds the purchase price by a certain percentage (e.g., 25% or more). The tax rate would be progressive, increasing with the magnitude of the profit.</li></ul>

Specifically target first-time homebuyers, with the most difficult part: the down payment.

The Credit at a glance

<h2>In Virginia’s 9th Congressional District,</h2>like many communities, LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges. While legal protections have advanced, everyday experiences can still be marked by discrimination and a lack of full acceptance.Remember, we are all humans and Americans first. It's important to treat everyone with respect, and to always attempt to walk a mile in another's shoes. There is enough pain and suffering in the world, we don't have to add to it. We all deserve a fair shot to get ahead, after all. If nothing else, remember, the Golden Rule, to love thy neighbor as thyself, to do unto others, as you would want them to do unto you.What’s at Stake?<ul><li>Fairness &amp; Opportunity: Ensuring LGBTQ+ individuals have equal access to jobs, housing, and public services.</li><li>Safe Communities: Creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels safe and respected, especially our young people.</li><li>Strong Families: Recognizing that families come in many forms and supporting the commitment and love that binds them together.</li><li>Mental Wellbeing: Addressing the disproportionate mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth and providing vital support.</li></ul>Our Approach:We believe in building bridges, not walls. We’re committed to fostering understanding, promoting respectful dialogue, and working towards a more inclusive 9th District where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We focus on shared values – fairness, opportunity, and the inherent dignity of every individual – to create a community where everyone can thrive.Let's talk about this and not be afraid to learn. We are happy to provide resources, so please contact us about it.

Volunteer

Announcments

The Universal Broadband Access (UBA) Act

About me and our Campaign

<a href="/909418cf-9074-4043-8fbf-01a4b36385e0">Guarantee</a> paid time off for new parents, ensuring financial stability and bonding time.Reduce stress and improve the well-being of families across Southwest Virginia.

<h2>Announcement Title</h2>Put your announcement description here.

Announcement

Privacy Policy &amp; Terms of Service

Here's what universal PTO could look like in America

The Family &amp; Wellbeing Support Act

Right to Repair &amp; Support

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The Issues facing our District

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Issues in SWVA

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News

Our campaign platform is built on the promise of a "21st Century New Deal" – a bold, comprehensive plan to renew our district and communities, ensuring that every resident has the chance to thrive, not just survive.This Deal is the best possible way to fix this rigged system and create the best possible American future.

21st Century Deal

Reproductive Freedom

<h3 style="text-align: center">The 21st Century demands a public education system that equips students with the skills, knowledge, and critical thinking abilities necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.</h3>This Act aims to transform public education, fostering creativity, innovation, and a lifelong love of learning. There is perhaps no profession more than teachers(except maybe doctors) that are as important to the future of a society than her teachers. It is national disgrace we do not support them as much as they need, and we have allowed our public system to be hollowed out in many ways.This act would aim to shift the balance back towards making our schools best in the world again. <h4>Curriculum Enhancement:</h4><ul><li>Programming Languages: Introduce age-appropriate programming concepts and languages starting in elementary school, with increasing complexity in subsequent grades.</li><li>Foreign Languages: Offer a variety of foreign language options starting in elementary school, with opportunities for immersion programs.</li><li>Personalized Learning Pathways: Implement systems that allow students to explore different areas of interest and tailor their learning experiences.</li></ul><h4>Assessment Reform:</h4><ul><li>Project-Based Learning: Emphasize project-based learning activities that require students to apply their knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems.</li><li>Performance-Based Assessments: Utilize performance-based assessments, such as presentations, demonstrations, and portfolios, to evaluate student learning.</li><li>Elimination of AI-Generated Content: Prohibit the use of AI tools for submitting assignments and assessments. Implement detection measures to ensure academic integrity.</li></ul><h4>Technology Integration &amp; Responsible AI Use:</h4><ul><li>Public AI Access: Allow access to public AI tools for research, brainstorming, and learning support, under the guidance of educators.</li><li>AI Literacy Education: Integrate AI literacy education into the curriculum, teaching students about the capabilities and limitations of AI.</li><li>School Mode for Devices: Create a “School Mode” on personal devices similar to Airplane Mode, restricting access to non-educational apps and websites during school hours. This mode will be customizable by schools and parents.</li><li>AI Detection Technology: Research and implement effective AI detection technology to maintain academic integrity.</li></ul><h4>Parent &amp; Child Support:</h4><ul><li>School Mode Customization: Develop clear guidelines for school and parent customization of the “School Mode” feature.</li><li>Parental Involvement: Encourage parental involvement in the educational process and provide resources for parents to support their children’s learning such as how their School Mode works.</li><li>Equity Considerations: Ensure that all students have equal access to technology and resources, regardless of socioeconomic background.</li><li>Pilot Programs: Implement pilot programs in select schools to test and refine the policy before widespread adoption.</li><li>Equity Considerations: Ensure that all students have equal access to technology and resources, regardless of socioeconomic background.</li><li>Cost-of-Living Adjustments: Consider incorporating cost-of-living adjustments to the national minimum teacher salary to account for regional differences in the cost of living, such <a href="/ba788125-d225-4b05-857d-e407862468ae">RW-COLA</a> which would further incentivize the best to teach our children in SWVA.</li></ul><h4>Teacher Compensation &amp; Support:</h4><ul><li>National Minimum Teacher Salary: Establish a national minimum teacher salary of $80,000 annually. This will be phased in over a period of 2 years to allow states to adjust their budgets.</li><li>Teacher Loan Forgiveness: Expand existing teacher loan forgiveness programs to incentivize individuals to enter and remain in the teaching profession.</li><li>Professional Development: Provide teachers with ongoing professional development opportunities in areas such as programming, foreign languages, personalized learning, and AI literacy.</li><li>Curriculum Resources: Provide teachers with access to high-quality curriculum resources and support materials.</li></ul><h4>Funding Mechanism:</h4><ul><li>State &amp; Federal Grants: Secure state and federal grants to support curriculum development, teacher training, and technology infrastructure.</li><li>Public-Private Partnerships: Explore public-private partnerships to leverage expertise and resources.</li></ul>

<h2>Reproductive Freedom in our District</h2>Reproductive freedom is a critical issue impacting the health, economic security, and overall well-being of women and families in the Ninth District. Access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, including contraception, abortion care, and prenatal care, is essential for women to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures. Recent legislative changes and ongoing legal challenges have created barriers to care, disproportionately impacting low-income women, women of color, and those living in rural areas. These restrictions not only limit individual autonomy but also exacerbate existing health disparities and economic inequalities.These are some critical pillars to why we believe this is so important:<ul><li>Access to Quality Healthcare: Ensuring all women have access to preventative care, prenatal care, and postpartum support, no matter what.</li><li>Respectful Birthing Experiences: Supporting families through pregnancy, childbirth, and the early years, with compassionate care and a focus on individual needs.</li><li>Family Planning Options: Providing access to information and resources that allow individuals to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.</li><li>Supporting All Families: Recognizing that families come in many forms and providing resources and support for all parents and caregivers.</li></ul>

When we restrict these choices, we limit opportunities, harm families, and undermine the fundamental right to autonomy.Reproductive freedom ensures:

Protecting these rights so everyone can thrive.

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Main Issues Summary

<h2 style="text-align: center">The Algorithmic Commons Act</h2>Recognizing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence while acknowledging the risks associated with concentrated power and lack of transparency, the Algorithmic Commons Act establishes a framework for responsible AI development and deployment, prioritizing public benefit, algorithmic accountability, and the preservation of human creativity.<ul><li>Foster Public AI: Encourage the development and accessibility of open-source AI models for public benefit.</li><li>Ensure Algorithmic Transparency: Mandate clear labeling of AI-generated content and open disclosure of training data.</li><li>Protect Intellectual Property: Safeguard the rights of artists and creators in the age of AI-generated content.</li><li>Promote Responsible AI Use: Establish guidelines for the ethical and responsible use of AI technologies.</li><li>Maintain Human Creativity: Protect the value and integrity of human artistic expression.</li></ul><h4>Public AI Initiative:</h4><ul><li>Government Funding: Allocate government funding to support the development and maintenance of open-source AI models.</li><li>Data Sharing Incentives: Provide incentives for organizations to contribute data to public AI training datasets.</li><li>Model Accessibility: Ensure public AI models are readily accessible to researchers, developers, and the public.</li></ul><h4>Algorithmic Transparency &amp; Labeling:</h4><ul><li>Content Tagging: All AI-generated content (text, images, audio, video) must be clearly tagged as “AI-Generated” or “Uses AI.” Like nutrition facts for your digital content</li><li>Training Data Disclosure: AI model developers must publicly disclose the datasets used to train their models, including sources and licensing information.</li></ul><h4>Social Media Algorithm Regulation:</h4><ul><li>Algorithm Disclosure: Social media platforms must publicly disclose the key factors and logic used by their algorithms to rank content and personalize user feeds. This disclosure must be in a format understandable to the average user.</li><li>User Control: Platforms must provide users with granular controls to customize their algorithmic feeds, including options to prioritize content from specific sources, disable personalized recommendations, and opt-out of algorithmic ranking altogether.</li><li>"Chronological" Option: Platforms must offer a chronological feed option, displaying content in the order it was posted, without algorithmic manipulation.</li><li>Impact Assessments: Platforms must conduct and publicly release regular impact assessments of their algorithms, evaluating their effects on user well-being, political polarization, and the spread of misinformation.</li><li>Auditing &amp; Oversight: An independent body will be established to audit social media algorithms and ensure compliance with this Act.</li></ul><h4>Copyright &amp; Intellectual Property:</h4><ul><li>AI-Generated Art Restrictions: The commercial use of AI-generated art for products or services is prohibited unless the model developer has secured the intellectual property rights to all training data.</li><li>Personal Use Exception: AI-generated art for personal, non-commercial use is permitted.</li><li>International Cooperation: Foster international cooperation to harmonize AI regulations and promote responsible AI development globally.</li></ul><h4>Watermarking &amp; Attribution:</h4><ul><li>Personal Use Watermark: AI-generated content for personal use must be watermarked with a brief but clear indication that it is AI-generated.</li><li>Commercial Use Watermark: AI-generated content for commercial use must be watermarked prominently at the beginning of the content, clearly stating that it is AI-generated or uses AI images.</li><li>Other Watermark Specifications: Establish further technical specifications for watermarks to ensure their effectiveness and visibility, like a movies rating board to determine just how much of their digital media is AI content.</li></ul><h4>Algorithmic Accountability:</h4><ul><li>Independent Audits: Mandate independent audits of AI algorithms to assess their fairness, accuracy, and potential for bias.</li><li>Redress Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms for individuals to seek redress for harms caused by AI algorithms.</li></ul><h4>Funding Mechanism:</h4><ul><li>FTC Oversight: Allocate funding to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to oversee the implementation and enforcement of this Act.</li><li>Industry Contributions: Explore options for industry contributions to support the public AI initiative and algorithmic accountability measures.</li></ul>

Events

This lack of support disproportionately impacts women, low-income families, and small businesses, hindering economic growth and perpetuating inequality. The current system forces many parents to choose between caring for their newborns or maintaining their livelihoods, impacting family stability and workforce participation.

Events List

The 21st Century Public Education Act

<h4>Definitions:</h4><ul><li>Rural Area: A county designated as “Rural” by the local State Department of Rural Development, based on the following criteria: Population density below [X] persons per square mile, poverty rate above [Y]%, and limited access to essential services (healthcare, education, utilities). The list of designated Rural Areas will be reviewed and updated annually. Each state would be able to set their own adjustment level tailored to their situation.</li><li>Essential Worker: An employee in a designated Rural Area employed in a critical sector, including (but not limited to): Healthcare, Education (K-12 and Higher Education), Logistics, Public Safety (Law Enforcement, Firefighters, Emergency Medical Services), Utilities (Water, Electricity, Internet).</li><li>RW-COLA Adjustment: The supplemental wage adjustment provided to eligible Essential Workers in designated Rural Areas.</li></ul><h4>Eligibility:</h4><ul><li>Employee must be employed within a county designated as “Rural” by the local State Department of Rural Development. Employee must be classified as an “Essential Worker” as defined above. The RW-COLA Adjustment will be tiered, with higher percent adjustments for lower-wage workers. The maximum RW-COLA Adjustment will be capped at $100 per week. An individual state can increase this cap limit, but not decrease it.</li></ul><h5>RW-COLA Adjustment Calculation:</h5>The RW-COLA Adjustment will be calculated as a percentage of the employee’s base wage, using a Cost of Living Index (COLI) specifically tailored to rural areas. The COLI will be updated annually by the local State Department of Finance.The Caps can exist per week or per tier, subject to the State's designation. Same with the number of tiers to properly target the area's rural workers.<h4>Possible Virginia Numbers (to be adjusted based on state budget and needs):</h4><ul><li>Rural Designation Threshold: Population density &lt; 45 persons/sq mile per VA county</li><li>Annual State General Fund Allocation: $5 million</li><li>Target Annual Federal Funding: $2 million</li><li>Wage Tiers:<ul><li>Tier 1: Wage &lt; $37,500 – 10% adjustment</li><li>Tier 2: Wage between $37,501 and $70,000 – 5% adjustment</li><li>Tier 3: Wage between $70,001 and $140,000 – 2.5% adjustment</li><li>Etc.</li></ul></li><li>Weekly Adjustment Cap: $100</li><li>Projected VA Yearly Jobs Boosted at this Funding: 2000-5000</li></ul><h4>Funding:</h4>The RW-COLA Program will be funded through a combination of State General Fund Allocation and Federal Rural Development Funds.<ul><li>State General Fund Allocation: $5 million annually will be allocated from the State General Fund to the RW-COLA Program.</li><li>Federal Rural Development Funds: The State Department of Rural Development will actively pursue grants and partnerships with federal agencies (USDA, EDA, etc.) to supplement State funding. A target of $2-5 million in Federal funding will be sought annually per state, per need.</li></ul><h4>Administration:</h4>The State Department of Rural Development will be responsible for administering the RW-COLA Program, including:<ul><li>Designating Rural Areas.</li><li>Calculating and updating the Cost of Living Index.</li><li>Processing applications and verifying eligibility.</li><li>Distributing funds to participating employers.</li><li>Monitoring program effectiveness and reporting to the legislature.</li></ul>Participating Employers:<ul><li>Employers must apply to participate in the RW-COLA Program.</li><li>Participating employers will be required to meet certain criteria, including demonstrating a commitment to employee retention and providing a safe and supportive work environment.</li><li>The Department of Rural Development will provide technical assistance to participating employers.</li></ul>Reporting and Evaluation:The Department of Rural Development will submit an annual report to the legislature, detailing the program’s effectiveness, including:<ul><li>Number of participating employers and employees.</li><li>Total amount of RW-COLA adjustments distributed.</li><li>Impact on wages and cost of living in designated Rural Areas.</li><li>Recommendations for program improvements.</li></ul>

in the 9th District look like?

Upholding Human &amp; Constitutional rights

The American Revitalization Centers Act

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American Renewal &amp; Energy Infrastructure Act

<h2>America’s healthcare system is broken. Millions are uninsured or underinsured, costs are skyrocketing, and administrative waste is staggering. Current solutions are band-aids on a gaping wound.</h2><h4>A Universal, Efficient Healthcare System</h4>The Medicare for All Act establishes a universal healthcare system built on the foundation of Medicare, expanded to cover all U.S. residents. This isn't a radical overhaul; it’s a smart, fiscally responsible solution to a critical national problem. As you read on, you will see: we can’t afford NOT to implement Medicare for All.You might wonder outside of the details below, is how can providing healthcare to everyone be cheaper than what we have now? Watch this video and find out!What is Medicare For All attempting to do?<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3421" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Among other requirements, the program must (1) cover all U.S. residents; (2) provide for automatic enrollment of individuals upon birth or residency in the United States; and (3) cover items and services that are medically necessary or appropriate to maintain health or to diagnose, treat, or rehabilitate a health condition, including hospital services, prescription drugs, mental health and substance abuse treatment, dental and vision services, long-term care, gender affirming care, and reproductive care, including contraception and abortions.</a>That's a lot of legalese so let's break it down into chunks.

Trillions Saved Annually, Preventative Care Focus, Elimination of Premiums &amp; Deductibles, Overall American Savings

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The American Heritage Lands &amp; Stewardship Act

21st Century AI &amp; Algorithmic Regulation

The Digital Lifespan Act

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<h2>The Fiscal Advantage: Trillions Saved</h2><ul><li>Administrative Savings: The current system wastes an estimated $300-500 billion annually on administrative overhead. Medicare for All eliminates this waste, freeing up resources for patient care.</li><li>Drug Price Negotiation: Negotiating drug prices could save an estimated $1.2 trillion over 10 years.</li><li>Preventative Care Focus: Emphasis on preventative care reduces the need for costly interventions later on.</li><li>Overall Savings: Independent analyses estimate Medicare for All could <a href="https://truthout.org/articles/new-study-shows-medicare-for-all-would-save-us-5-1-trillion-over-ten-years/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">save the nation trillions of dollars</a> over the next decade.</li></ul><h2>The Health Advantage: American Lives, Healthier and Longer</h2>While the projected savings – ranging from $450 billion to $5.1 trillion over a decade – are significant, the true value of Medicare for All lies in the health outcomes it can unlock. By eliminating financial barriers to care, we can:<ul><li>Reduce Preventable Deaths: Lack of insurance is a leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States. Universal coverage would save <a href="https://www.sanders.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Medicare-for-All-2022-Fact-Sheet-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">68,000 more Americans lives yearly.</a></li><li>Improve Maternal Health: The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations. Medicare for All would provide comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care, reducing maternal deaths and improving infant health. It would work in tandem with programs such as <a href="/ba788125-d225-4b05-857d-e407862468ae">RW-COLA</a>. <a href="/a74f5457-5b76-4399-9c0c-267a9f60ab70/c86b7378-883a-4514-8391-eceb131bae2d#block-c47ee181-9ba6-48f2-864e-91ad26427af8">SWVA alread has 11 counties that are considered a desert for maternal wards</a>, so Medicare for All will help stabilize and increase the number of birthing centers here in SWVA.</li><li>Manage Chronic Diseases Effectively: Early detection and proactive management of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease can significantly improve quality of life and extend lifespan.</li><li>Boost Economic Productivity: A healthier workforce is a more productive workforce. By investing in the health of our citizens, we can strengthen our economy</li><li>Address Health Disparities: Medicare for All would help close the health disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.</li></ul><h4>Funding the System:</h4><ul><li>Elimination of Premiums &amp; Deductibles: Families will no longer face the burden of monthly premiums and high deductibles. Many family plans cost around $12,000 a year, and that just gets you access to the privilege of spending another 6k or so before your insurance really starts covering costs. And even then, they still will find ways to nickle and dime you. Could be as much as $20,000-50,000 dollars before you can stop paying just to take care of the health of your family. Then it resets next year. All of those barriers to healthcare would be completely removed. You deserve healthcare, as a human right and American right.</li><li>Reallocation of Existing Funds: Existing healthcare spending from various sources (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance) will be consolidated and redirected. Many people don’t realize the American taxpayers already pay a subsidy for the uninsured, as well as the vast majority of dialysis treatments. This is done through existing programs &amp; sometimes through acts of Congress. This plan would consolidate it all into one very efficient system, reducing healthcare prices to cost, instead of chasing ballooning profits.</li><li>Supplemental Coverage: Individuals can purchase supplemental insurance for services not fully covered by M4AA (e.g., cosmetic procedures, private rooms)</li></ul>

This includes guaranteed Paid Time Off (PTO), guaranteed Parental leave for both parents, guaranteed Sick/Health Time, guaranteed bereavement leave

We are strongly supporting

Adam Murphy for Virginia's 9th Congressional

Naomi Hodgemuse

President, Martinsville NAACP

Alex Bastani

Former VA LT. Governor Candidate