Virginia’s Speaker Delivers Stirring Speech in Support of Kelly Convirs-Fowler & Small Business
- barbara83072
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
Richmond, VA – Speaker Don Scott, and former Democrat Minority Leader of the Virginia House of Delegates, delivered a powerful and deeply personal speech at a fundraiser for Delegate Kelly Convirs-Fowler, outlining a vision that could significantly benefit Virginia's small businesses, especially those navigating the complex and often restrictive regulations within the cannabis and hemp industries.
A Leader Shaped by Experience: Understanding Regulatory Burdens
Scott, whose own journey includes a felony conviction for a marijuana charge and a subsequent pardon by President Joe Biden, understands firsthand the impact of overbearing regulations. His experiences have shaped his commitment to creating a more equitable and supportive environment for entrepreneurs.
Championing Small Business: Advocating for a Level Playing Field
In his speech, Scott praised Convirs-Fowler's dedication to her community, emphasizing her understanding of the challenges faced by small businesses. He highlighted her commitment to cutting through the "BS in politics" that often hinders economic growth. Scott's focus on integrity and transparency resonates strongly with small business owners who seek a level playing field.
Addressing Economic Headwinds: A Call for Stability
Scott's critique of the current political climate, with its rising costs and perceived erosion of democratic norms, extends beyond general economic concerns. He specifically addresses the impact of these policies on small businesses, which are often the most vulnerable to economic instability and regulatory burdens.
Empowering Entrepreneurs: The Power of Collective Action
His call for active civic engagement is a direct appeal to small business owners to advocate for their interests. He understands that regulatory hurdles, particularly in emerging sectors like cannabis and hemp, can stifle innovation and growth. Scott's emphasis on collective action and perseverance is a rallying cry for entrepreneurs to push back against policies that hinder their potential.
Reshaping the Regulatory Landscape: A Vision for Growth
Drawing on Virginia's history of resisting tyranny, Scott's vision extends to dismantling unnecessary regulatory barriers that impede small businesses. He sees the upcoming elections, particularly Convirs-Fowler's race, as a critical opportunity to reshape the regulatory landscape and foster a more business-friendly environment.
Building an Inclusive Economy: Benefits Beyond the Bottom Line
Scott's progressive agenda, including protecting voting rights and promoting equality, aligns with the values of many small business owners who prioritize fairness and inclusivity. He understands that a thriving economy requires a level playing field where all entrepreneurs have the opportunity to succeed. His focus on reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ equality also indirectly benefits small businesses. A diverse and inclusive community is a more attractive place to do business, attracting talent and customers.
A Focus on Cannabis and Hemp: Catalyzing Emerging Industries
Specifically, Scott's stances could directly benefit Virginia's cannabis and hemp industries. He advocates for:
Regulatory Reform: Scott understands that the current regulatory framework for cannabis and hemp is often overly burdensome, creating unnecessary barriers for small businesses. He is committed to streamlining regulations and creating a more predictable and transparent environment.
Market Access: He recognizes the importance of expanding market access for cannabis and hemp businesses, ensuring that they can compete fairly with larger corporations.
Economic Opportunity: Scott views the cannabis and hemp industries as significant drivers of economic growth and job creation in Virginia. He is committed to fostering an environment where these businesses can thrive.
Social Equity: He understands that the war on drugs has disproportionately affected marginalized communities. He is committed to ensuring that the cannabis and hemp industries benefit those who have been most harmed by past policies.
A Personal Commitment: Paving the Way for Second Chances
Scott's personal experience with the criminal justice system underscores his commitment to social equity and economic opportunity. He understands that second chances are crucial for entrepreneurs who have faced adversity.
Conclusion: A Call for a Business-Friendly Future
Don Scott's speech was a powerful call to action for Virginia's small businesses, particularly those in the cannabis and hemp sectors. His vision offers a lifeline to entrepreneurs who are struggling to navigate a complex regulatory landscape. His commitment to fairness, transparency, and economic opportunity could pave the way for a more vibrant and inclusive business environment in Virginia.
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