For Release: Aug. 30, 2007
Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Email: tucker.martin@oag.state.va.us or dclementson@oag.state.va.us
Phone: 804-786-2071
Statement of Attorney General Bob McDonnell on Report of the Governor’s Virginia Tech Review Panel
RICHMOND - Attorney General Bob McDonnell issued the following statement regarding today’s release of the report of the Governor’s Virginia Tech Review Panel:
“Our Commonwealth has been forever altered by the tragic events of April 16. The grief remains fresh in the hearts of our citizens, and our prayers continue to be with the families of those who were lost, and all those who were injured. We honor those who were lost by our work to prevent similar tragedies from occurring. With today’s report we have a comprehensive review of this tragedy, and a blueprint of what can be done to prevent a recurrence.
“I commend Governor Kaine, Secretary Ridge, Superintendent Massengill, and all the members of the Panel for their tireless work. The report provides important information, and identifies areas of continued inquiry about mental health, campus security, and public safety. Finding the remaining answers to these questions, and ensuring their enactment in our laws and policies must now become our focus.
“As the Commonwealth’s law firm, our office has begun a full review of this report. We will work with our client agencies to review the Panel’s findings, and to ensure appropriate implementation of the recommendations. Finally, where necessary, we will work with the General Assembly and the U.S. Congress to make necessary legislative changes. I particularly note the Panel’s apt conclusion that the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) are too complex and confusing. Now, we must take what has been learned, remember what we have witnessed, and pledge to the families of those who were lost that we will improve the laws and policies of Virginia so that no family, no campus, no Virginian, will ever experience such a tragedy again.”
