Deb Ruggiero - Gets the Job Done

The following article was originally submitted to the Newport Daily News by Jamestown Resident Jack Civic DVM

I have known Deb Ruggiero well for the last 6 years, frequently calling, emailing and texting, lamenting to her the problems that face our state and how action needed to be taken on issues such as eliminating the master lever, re-instituting ethics oversight of the legislature as well as eliminating/re-configuring community service and legislative grants (AKA veiled bribes) with the goal of making Rhode Island an attractive state in which to do business. No matter the issue Deb ALWAYS responded. Never in any of my conversations has she been less than candid. She is always open to constructive comments and suggestions.

Deb has frequently queried me as to what would assist small business to thrive in our state. Unemployment Insurance and Workman's Compensation reforms are just now starting to bear fruit. As member of House Finance Deb helped restructure the unemployment insurance tax paid by employers saving RI businesses $30 million dollars next year. Deb voted to cut the corporate tax from 9% to 7%, the lowest rate now in all New England states. She Championed the legislation to repeal sales tax on original works of art to help small business. She voted in favor of the Micro Business Act which directs the state to provide assistance to very small companies. Of most importance Deb has been a champion of renewable energy causes in Rhode Island. Through her direct involvement in the Distributed Generation program, companies are saving thousands of dollars on energy bills. Money that can more wisely be spent on adding employees, investing in and growing businesses.

When elected in November, Deb will assume the chairwoman of House Committee on Small Business-- not so bad for business in Middletown and Jamestown to have someone with integrity who gets things done working on behalf of small business in the state Deb, as a small business owner herself, is a real straight shooter, one of the good guys, an independent fighter who is not in lock step with Mattiello. As Deb has gained political capital in the legislature, she is just hitting her stride. She now is able to utilize that well earned capital to continue her fight for what is right for the state, Jamestown and Middletown. We are fortunate to have someone of her integrity and leadership at State House to stand up to the good 'ol boy system. She cares about Jamestown, Middletown and the state with her solid policy work. She works across the aisle and is a good communicator and negotiator. Join me in voting to send Deb to the State House -she's an articulate, strong voice for the people she serves. She gets the job done, in a manner you and she can be proud of.
Jack Civic DVM
Jamestown, RI