He served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 1994–2012, representing the 12th district in the western part of the state.

[1] Shuler served on the House committees on Agriculture (1994–2001), Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources (2002–2011), Corporations, Insurance and Banking (1994–2001), Education (2004–2011), Labor and Commerce (1994–1997), Militia, Police and Public Safety (2002–2011), Mining and Mineral Resources (1994–2001), and Science and Technology (1998–2001).

degree from Virginia Tech in 1966 and a doctorate in veterinary medicine from the University of Georgia in 1970.

Shuler moved from Blacksburg to Pulaski County and ran for the open 7th district seat, but lost to Republican Dave Nutter in the November 6, 2001 general election, while Deeds won in the redrawn 12th.

On the next day, when the House opened its new session, Shuler returned without an actual break in service.