Legislative Spotlight: State Senator Mark Peake
The VANA Communications Committee was excited to hear from State Senator Mark Peake. Virginia legislators are critical for accomplishing VANA’s legislative goals and it’s important that we engage in ongoing conversations, community events, and meetings to share our stories. VANA members interested in more information can reach out to the Government Relations committee at [email protected].
1. Tell us about yourself, the district you serve, and your history as a legislator in the Senate.
I am Mark Peake; I grew up in Roanoke, Virginia and graduated from Patrick Henry High School, Virginia Tech, and Washington and Lee Law School. I started working in Lynchburg in 1990 and got married and raised 5 children.
I was elected to the State Senate in January 2017. Representing half of the City of Lynchburg and 8 counties stretching from Amherst to Goochland. I am now running for re-election in Senate District 8 including all of the City of Lynchburg, Bedford and Campbell.
2. What called you to public service?
Ronald Reagan came into the political scene when I was in high school. I thought his ideas and principals made a lot of sense. I began to pay attention to politics because of his Presidency. Ultimately, got involved in local politics after I settled in Lynchburg after law school.
3. What committees do you serve on?
I currently serve on the Judiciary, Education & Health, Privileges & Elections, and Transportation Senate Committees.
4. What do you consider to be your biggest legislative accomplishment so far?
When I first entered the Senate, the Republicans were in the majority and I got to carry many good bills helping education. Big teacher shortage at that time and there still is. I carried legislation to attract and retain new teachers.
I worked on legislation to address various localities I represent. Money in the budget to help hot algae bloom at Lake Anna, and legislation/budget amendments to help revitalize the former Central Virginia Training Center (CVTC).
5. What are the most pressing issues facing Virginia’s medical professionals right now? Any legislation of note that you would like to highlight on this front?
The biggest problem is a lack of doctors and nurses and anyone else willing to work in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living. We have been losing more doctors than we have gained, and we have also tried to add more residency spots for doctors. There is a terrible shortage of RNs, and my wife is an RN. I am well aware of this shortage situation. Hospitals across the Commonwealth are having to use travel nurses from other areas to fulfill needs. Many of our medical facilities lack employees who fulfill jobs below the RN level. I have supported legislation to make it easier for nurses to transfer their licenses from out of state, especially military individuals. I have supported the Governor’s plan to put more money into educating nurses, teachers, and law enforcement.
6. We would love to hear about some of your strongest mentors, and how they helped you grow and develop as a legislator.
My strongest mentor is Senator Steve Newman, who has always provided guidance and advice. He has over 30 years of experience in the General Assembly and knows how to get everything done.
7. VANA members are leaders at every level. Can you share a bit about your own leadership style, and why you think getting involved in leadership is important?
My leadership style has mainly been to listen to what the needs are of my constituents. Many of my best bills have come from people out in the real world who need practical solutions to everyday problems or to get government bureaucracy out of the way.
