Wilt Elected Chairman of Virginia Small Business Commission

Richmond– On Monday Delegate Tony Wilt (R-Broadway) was elected chairman of the Virginia Small Business Commission during a regular meeting of the group held at the Capitol. The Virginia Small Business Commission exists to study, report, and make recommendations to the General Assembly on issues of concern to small businesses in the Commonwealth.

“I’m honored to receive the confidence of my fellow Commission members. I’ve enjoyed serving as a member of the group and look forward to taking on this new role,” said Wilt. “As a small business owner, I understand the significant role that small businesses play in creating a vibrant local economy. Unfortunately, Virginia’s economic growth is lagging behind many other states and a recent report indicated we are also behind on individual income growth. Since small businesses consistently lead the way in new job creation, this commission is an appropriate venue to consider tax, regulatory and other policy reforms that seek to improve the economic environment for small businesses.”

“I appreciate Delegate Wilt’s willingness to serve in this capacity,” stated the outgoing Chairman of the Commission, Delegate Danny Marshall (R-Danville). “Given his business background, I am confident he will do an excellent job guiding the work of the Commission. Like myself, I know he is committed to advancing policy that will make it easier for Virginia’s small businesses to grow and thrive.”

Small businesses account for 98 percent of the Commonwealth’s employers and employ nearly half of Virginia’s non-government workforce, according to federal government statistics.

Members of the Commission include state legislators, as well as citizen members appointed by the Governor that have a background in small business.

Delegate Wilt was appointed to the Virginia Small Business Commission by Speaker Bill Howell in 2012. He has served in the House of Delegates since 2010 and is currently seeking his 4^th full term in office.