Commission Pitches Plan to Soften Impact of Defense Cuts

RICHMOND, VA—A panel created a year ago to deal with possible military budget cuts and their impact on the Commonwealth of Virginia issued its report that included a host of actions it could take to offset what could be devastating job losses.

Defense spending cuts could cost the state of Virginia up to 100,000 jobs and $7 billion in wages and salaries. The cuts could reduce the gross state product by more than $10 billion, according to the Washington Business Journal.

The Commission on Military Installations & Defense Activities released its report on Monday that included a number of recommendations that included the Commonwealth of Virginia lobby for another base realignment and closure shift, which the Pentagon is proposing with its fiscal 2015 budget. Such a plan could benefit the state through consolidation of defense activities from other states.

The commission also called for a united front among the Virginia congressional delegation to promote retention and expansion of its existing defense facilities.

In releasing the report, Gov. Terry McAuliffe stated, “We are fortunate to have in Virginia one of the largest concentrations of military and defense activities, facilities, personnel and families in the country. Given the significant economic impact that our military installations and defense activities have on our Commonwealth, and in view of the recently announced proposed Department of Defense budget cuts and potential 2017 Base Realignment and Closure activity, it has never been more vital for us to work hand in hand with our defense and military partners to ensure the continued vitality of these assets.” See story in the Washington Business Journal.