RICHMOND – The Virginia chapter of Americans for Prosperity (AFP-VA) today commended House Republicans for making transparent and accountable government a state priority by requiring recorded subcommittee votes, giving Virginians public access to individual delegate votes on crucial legislation in subcommittees.

"This is a victory for Virginia voters." said AFP – Virginia State Director Ben Marchi. "Accountable and transparent government is where good government begins, and it is encouraging that both Virginia voters and delegates are in agreement."

AFP-Virginia’s fight for recorded subcommittee votes included a petition supporting transparency in state government signed by Virginia activists, along with an influx of phone calls and letters voicing concern to legislators.

"Having recorded votes in subcommittees will allow Virginians to check and make sure we are doing the job they put us here to do," said Delegate Ben Cline (R-Lexington) who has authored transparency legislation to be introduced in the 45 day session beginning next month.

AFP-Virginia was also glad to hear that House Republicans made difficult but necessary cuts in their budget – saving Virginia taxpayers over $1 million-- and pledged to oppose any earmarks in the 2008-2010 biennial budgets.

Over the next few months, AFP will take its message of transparent, accountable, and limited government on the road, holding town hall meetings with legislators at the local, state, and federal levels.

"The 2009 session has not yet started and Virginia taxpaying citizens are already winning," said Marchi. "With the support of our over 13,000 members, I know the voices of Virginians will continue to be heard.”