My experience at Governor's School (GS) for Government and International Studies in Richmond was a formative one in my life.  As a graduate of the class of '99, I can reflect on how the GS program made me a successful applicant for college, medical school, and graduate school in chemistry.  It has also made me a stronger citizen of the United States and our shrinking world. 

To reduce the effectiveness for this type of organization would be to reduce the long term viability of our nation's democracy.  The GS program is a model of opportunity for those who lack the funds to attend elite private schools.  The GS program is a model of democracy in that it provides, at no cost to the family, the tools required to truely pursue happiness. 

In addition, the GS program is a strong incentive for families with children to move to Virginia, thus increasing its tax-base and its attractiveness for new economic ventures.  By maintaining the strength of the GS program, you do the same for Virginia, the United States, and the world.  Please do not pass the new regulations.