Wherever governmental functions and services can be improved, improvement should be made. However, none can deny the wisdom of seeking improvement by the method of serious study and sound procedure rather than by haphazard or hasty legislation. It was my privilege to serve you as Attorney General for almost five and one-half years. That experience gave to me certain definite ideas and conceptions of good government. Nevertheless, I shall ever be responsive to all constructive criticism and suggestions relating to any changes or innovations designed to improve the service of the State to its people.
Every citizen is proud of the financial stability of our State.
Such can be matched by only a few and exceeded by none of the States of the Union. Since 1933, West Virginia has steadily climbed to its present high position of sound fiscal policy and management. This must be maintained. Taxation is necessary in any government, but a just and equal assessment and distribution of the tax burden is an essential part thereof. Our tax structure appears to be sound, particularly in light of our constitutional provisions surrounding such.