Legislation
- Louise Lucas and Don Scott Clash as Virginia Budget Talks Stall Over Data Center Tax Breaks
With just days remaining in the 2026 legislative session, Virginia lawmakers are running out of time to reach agreement on a new two-year state budget, even as Democrats control the governor’s office and both chambers of the General Assembly. As of Wednesday afternoon, budget con
- Atoosa Reaser House Bill 71 on Absentee Satellite Offices Continued to 2027
RICHMOND — In a move highlighting ongoing debates over election administration, the Virginia House Privileges and Elections Committee voted on February 13, 2026, to continue House Bill 71 to the 2027 session by voice vote. The legislation, introduced by Delegate Atoosa Reaser as
- Amy Laufer House Bill 85 on Postsecondary Transition Counselors Deferred to 2027
RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia House Committee on Education has continued House Bill 85 to the 2027 legislative session, signaling a cautious approach to expanding specialized certification programs for educators supporting students with disabilities in postsecondary transitions.
- Louise Lucas Presses Data Center Tax Repeal After Virginia Senate Vote
RICHMOND (VA) (AP). Nearly 20 years ago, Virginia offered tax breaks to tech companies on software and equipment.
- Virginia Legislature Unanimously Approves Repeal of Apple Board and Excise Tax on Growers
RICHMOND, Virginia — In a rare display of bipartisan unity, the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate have passed House Bill 65, a bill to repeal the state Apple Board and the associated Apple Fund effective July 1, 2028.
- Michael Feggans Veteran Tax Relief Bill Stalls in House Appropriations
RICHMOND, Va. — A measure aimed at providing greater tax relief to military veterans and their families has met its end in the House Appropriations Committee during the 2026 Virginia General Assembly session.
- Senate Finance Committee Continues Katrina Callsen House Bill 127 on Right to Counsel at Bail Hearings
RICHMOND, Virginia – The Virginia General Assembly has delivered a strong bipartisan endorsement to House Bill 52, sponsored by Delegate Robert Bloxom, passing it unanimously in both chambers.
- Shelly Simonds Bill Mandating Career Coaches in Every Public High School Halts in House Appropriations
RICHMOND, Va. – Legislation aimed at placing a career coach in every public high school across Virginia met its end in the House Appropriations Committee this session.
- Michael Feggans Gold Star Spouse Property Tax Exemption Passes House Unanimously; Senate Delays Action
RICHMOND, Virginia – Legislation aimed at providing complete property tax relief for surviving spouses of fallen Armed Forces members cleared the Virginia House of Delegates with unanimous acclaim.
- Marcia Price Bill Extending Landlord Eviction Wait Passes Senate, Heads to Abigail Spanberger
RICHMOND, Virginia – In a closely divided vote, the Virginia Senate approved House Bill 15 on March 10, 2026, by a tally of 21-19, sending the measure to Governor Abigail Spanberger’s desk.
- New proposal from grid operator PJM would require data centers to bring their own power
Data center with transmission lines in Prince William County, VA. (Photo by Shannon Heckt/Virginia Mercury) PJM, the regional grid operator for most of the East Coast, is asking federal regulators to approve a rule requiring new large-load customers, namely data centers, to bring their own power supply to the grid. With Virginia among the 13 […]
- Data Center Bills Dominated This Year's General Assembly. Here's What Passed.
The rapid growth of Virginia’s data center industry was a key point of focus during the 2026 legislative session, as lawmakers sought to balance the sector’s benefits — including over $80 billion in state investments and thousands of jobs — against its enormous electricity and water needs, which are a growing concern for communities statewide. Legislators filed dozens of bills directly aimed at re
- Bill Stanley Senate Bill 106 Targeting Tianeptine Sales
The Virginia Senate approved Senate Bill 106 on a vote of 39 yeas to 0 nays, establishing civil penalties for the sale, giving, or distribution of tianeptine products. Sponsored by Senator Bill Stanley, the measure focuses on substances commonly associated with gas station sales and referred to informally as gas station heroin. The legislation aims […]
- Testimony Highlights Debate on Gun-Free Zones in Virginia Senate Hearing
James Hemmings presented testimony at a Virginia State Senate session addressing a bill related to constitutional carry. He indicated support for the legislation by raising questions about the effects of gun-free zone designations. Hemmings described how these zones might influence personal security in everyday settings. The remarks centered on experiences in Fairfax where restrictions through […]
- Hemp businesses ask federal judge to block Virginia’s new THC cap
Seven Virginia hemp businesses are asking a federal judge to block new restrictions on consumable hemp products, arguing the changes will wipe out much of their inventory, trigger layoffs and force some companies to close when they take effect on Aug. 15. The lawsuit, filed July 31 in the U.S. District Court for the Western […]
- Dominion asks State Corporation Commission to recover an additional $922 million for fuel costs over multiple years
Dominion Energy asked the State Corporation Commission to recover an additional $922 million in fuel costs, citing extreme power demands during as well as a national rise in gas prices as reasons for the escalation beyond its original calculations State Corporation Commission staff reported that Dominion’s “actual fuel and purchased power expenses rose dramatically from […]
- Loudoun County Board Advances Legislative Position on Immigration Enforcement Cooperation
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors approved a policy statement for its 2026 legislative program following a 6-3 vote on March 3. The statement supports state legislation encouraging transparency in civil immigration enforcement activities and limiting local law enforcement cooperation in immigration matters. This action was proposed by Algonkian District Supervisor Juli Briskman. Board member
- Virginia Senate Considers Support Legislation for Firefighters
Firefighters in Virginia encounter hundreds of traumatic events annually during their service. Mental health stigma continues to affect their ability to access care despite these demands. A call to action has been presented in the Virginia State Senate regarding legislation for essential support. Exposure to Trauma in Firefighting Roles The profession involves repeated exposure to […]
- Scott Surovell Advances School Food Waste Legislation
Senator Scott Surovell has put forward legislation that would require Virginia schools to adopt improved methods for managing food waste. The bill targets the incorporation of composting infrastructure particularly in new school buildings. This effort aims to address the volume of food waste generated in educational settings across various localities. During legislative proceedings the proposal […
- Federal judge denies hemp entrepreneurs’ request to overturn Virginia’s new THC limit
A federal judge in Roanoke on Friday declined seven Virginia business owners’ request to eliminate a new regulation that removes an exception to the state’s limit of 2 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per product package. The new standard took effect Aug. 15. The entrepreneurs had asked the U.S. District Court for the Western District of […]
- Virginia Committee Reviews House Bill 623 on Property Return Procedures
A committee of the Virginia House of Delegates held a discussion on HB 623 which seeks to modify existing procedures for returning property to victims of crime. The bill proposes adjustments that would allow local law enforcement to handle certain returns without additional court involvement in specified circumstances. This approach aims to address current requirements […]
- Virginia House Transportation Committee Approves Helmet Requirement Legislation
The Virginia House of Delegates Transportation Committee reviewed and advanced House Bill 343 during its recent meeting. The legislation proposes requirements for helmet use on skateboards and scooters as well as nonmotorized scooters. The measure received approval following a subcommittee review and a subsequent committee vote. The process included a motion to report the bill […]
- Virginia House Committee Approves Bill to Restrict Credit Cards in Sports Betting
A Virginia House committee has advanced legislation that would ban the use of credit cards for sports betting activities in the state. The measure passed with a 19-0 vote during the committee session. This step brings the proposal closer to further consideration in the legislative process. Details of the Legislative Action The bill focuses specifically […]
- Virginia House Advances HB 49 on Historical Horse Racing Revenue Allocation
HB 49 advanced in a Virginia House of Delegates committee with a nine to zero vote. The bill addresses the redistribution of revenue generated from historical horse racing. Delegate Torian provided an overview of the funding distribution process during the session. The legislation specifies how proceeds from historical horse racing are allocated to various foundations. […]
- Testimony Presented on House Bill 696 Regarding Firearm Possession at Virginia Rest Areas
Testimony occurred before the Virginia House of Delegates concerning House Bill 696. The measure addresses whether citizens may carry firearms at rest areas. Representatives from the National Rifle Association and the Liberal Gun Club participated in the session. The presented arguments focused on self-defense needs for travelers. Speakers described potential risks in remote locations where […]
- Jen Kiggans Engages with Federal Bureau of Investigation on Public Safety and Election Measures
Congresswoman Jen Kiggans joined FBI Director Kash Patel and Hampton Roads law enforcement for a discussion on public safety issues. The meeting focused on collaboration between federal agencies and local partners to address crime and security challenges in the region. Kiggans has represented Virginia’s Second Congressional District since 2023, covering areas including Virginia Beach and […]
- Virginia House Subcommittee Advances Poker Age Bill
The ABC/Gaming Subcommittee of the Virginia House of Delegates convened to review legislation concerning gaming regulations. During the session, members considered House Bill 396 sponsored by Delegate Krizek. The bill addresses minimum age requirements for Texas Hold’em poker tournaments. Chair Torian presided over the meeting as the panel examined a substitute version of the measure. […]
- Virginia Senate Examines Nitrous Oxide Distribution Concerns
Testimony presented to the Virginia State Senate has drawn focus to the distribution of nitrous oxide and its associated concerns within the Commonwealth. The discussion involved Senate Bill 360 and highlighted patterns of use that affect residents. Speakers described how the substance is obtained in large canisters from various outlets. Details from Senate Testimony on […]
- Black lung cases surging again in Southwest Virginia, Appalachia; miners blame blocked regulations
With new research showing that black lung disease among Appalachian coal miners has reached an almost 50-year high, advocates are demanding federal regulations be enforced. The data published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine is also part of a peer-reviewed research letter from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health […]
- Virginia Budget Expands Government Bureaucracy to Fund New Recreational Marijuana Market
The state of Virginia is embarking on a massive expansion of state bureaucracy to establish a fully regulated recreational marijuana marketplace under the forthcoming biennial budget. Governor Abigail Spanberger recently announced a compromise to launch retail sales by July 1, 2027, ending a five-year period where adult possession was legal but retail sales were not. […]
- Virginia Lawmaker Scott Surovell Seeks Speed Cameras on George Washington Parkway Amid Enforcement Limits
State Senator Scott Surovell has introduced legislation to place speed cameras on a section of the George Washington Parkway. The measure responds to challenges in traffic enforcement along the roadway. Officials have identified a specific jurisdictional issue preventing standard policing. Discussions in the legislature continue to examine the proposal and its potential effects. Details of […]
- Campaign to enshrine voting rights in Virginia Constitution kicks off in Norfolk
Portsmouth school board member Quniana Futrell appeared somber behind the podium in Norfolk’s Slover event space as she spoke in support of a proposal to amend Virginia’s constitution to automatically restore voting rights for people who complete felony sentences. She recalled her experience growing up with both of her parents incarcerated and said her mother […]
- Virginia Implements Historic $600 Million Data Center Tax to Protect Ratepayers from Big Tech Grid Strain
The state of Virginia has officially implemented a first-of-its-kind statewide energy consumption tax on data centers within the FY2027 budget. This unprecedented measure is projected to generate up to $600 million annually by targeting the massive electricity usage of tech corporations. For years, conservative watchdogs have warned about the unchecked expansion of data centers and […]
- Virginia Secures Standard Deduction Increase for 2027, Urges Focus on Spending Cuts
Virginia taxpayers will see a modest but vital reprieve from heavy state taxation following a legislative agreement to increase the standard tax deduction starting in the 2027 tax year. Under the newly established financial framework, single filers will see their base deduction rise from $8,750 to $9,200. Joint filers will simultaneously enjoy a proportional increase, […]
- DEQ study throws cold water on data center development east of I-95
Among the many environmental, energy and economic concerns about the unconstrained spread of data centers in Virginia, the impact on drinking water supplies has ranked fairly low. That changed suddenly last week, with the release of a report that the administration of Gov. Abigail Spanberger seems to have tried to suppress. In compliance with […]
- Virginia voters could gain a bigger voice in choosing the 2028 presidential nominees
Virginia is on track to become the sixth and final early-voting state in the 2028 Democratic presidential nominating calendar under a proposal unveiled last week, a move that could bring presidential candidates, campaign spending and national attention to the commonwealth in the weeks before Super Tuesday. The Democratic National Committee’s Rules and Bylaws Committee recommended […]
- It’s time for Virginia lawmakers to expand protections for domestic violence victims
I am a Virginia attorney, and have lived here most of my life. I know the legal system here and understand the burden of proof. I believed that my knowledge of the law, and my ability to hire experienced counsel, would allow me to protect myself when I left an abusive marriage. I was wrong. […]
- Virginia Congressman Suhas Subramanyam Discusses Working Relationships in Congress
Representative Suhas Subramanyam, a Democrat representing Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, has noted his capacity to work effectively with progressive members of his party. These include individuals associated with efforts to reform or eliminate certain federal immigration enforcement mechanisms. Subramanyam assumed office in January 2025 after serving in the Virginia House of Delegates and
- Virginia moves toward regulating self-driving vehicles amid safety and liability concerns
Virginia is closer to regulating self-driving vehicles, which have steadily increased nationwide despite continued concerns over safety. Despite crashes that have led to restrictions in some areas, other states, such as Arizona and Texas, have continued to permit testing and deployment. With interest in the technology growing in Virginia, lawmakers are trying to get ahead […]
- Virginia legislator Louise Lucas was allowed to use campaign funds for her defense. So she did.
State Sen. Louise Lucas, the powerful Portsmouth Democrat, used $300,000 in campaign funds to contribute to her legal defense fund and hire a law firm following an FBI raid in May on her businesses in Portsmouth. That’s a sizable amount. What The Virginian-Pilot article should have noted higher in the story was that Lucas was […]
- Spanberger restores voting rights to more than 60,000 Felons
Gov. Abigail Spanberger has restored voting and other civil rights to more than 60,000 Felons since taking office in January, reversing the more restrictive restoration process adopted by her predecessor and reopening voting access for thousands of people with past felony convictions, her administration said Friday. The 66,085 Virginians whose rights have been restored may […]
- Education department seeks new student assessment vendor
The Virginia Department of Education took the next step toward replacing its student assessment system, a move estimated to cost the commonwealth at least $30 million a year, after criticism over delayed results, technology access concerns and frequent changes. State and federal laws require all students to take state assessments, unless they qualify for a […]
- Fairfax County General Fund Swells to $5.98 Billion Amid Union Contracts and School Transfers
The Fairfax County government has unveiled its advertised budget for the upcoming fiscal year, featuring General Fund expenditures that have swelled to nearly $5.98 billion. This substantial increase in department spending is primarily driven by escalating public sector union contracts and massive financial transfers to local schools. Despite these soaring costs, the proposal includes a […]
- Virginia House Advances Legislation Establishing At-Risk Program for Public Schools
The Virginia General Assembly is considering important changes to the way public schools receive state funding for supporting students with additional needs. Legislation known as House Bill 92 would establish a dedicated At-Risk Program as part of the Standards of Quality that govern educational services across the commonwealth. This program is designed to provide resources […]
- Virginia Bill to Review Temperature Mandates in Multi-Family Housing Failed
The Virginia General Assembly considered legislation in 2026 that would have initiated a review of temperature standards for multi-family residential buildings across the commonwealth. House Bill 119, introduced early in the session, aimed to direct the Board of Housing and Community Development to assemble a stakeholder advisory group focused on potential updates to the Uniform […]
- Virginia Enacts Law Allowing Electronic Submissions for Concealed Handgun Permits
Virginia has taken a step to update its concealed handgun permitting process with the enactment of House Bill 101. Sponsored by Delegate Jason Ballard of the 42nd District, the bill modifies section 18.2-308.02 of the Code of Virginia to allow alternate methods for submitting applications for permits to carry concealed handguns. The law was approved […]
- Virginia Senator Louise Lucas Reports Campaign Expenditures for Legal Costs Ahead of New Restrictions
State Senator Louise Lucas of Portsmouth authorized two payments from her campaign account on June 30 that totaled $300,000 and were directed toward legal defense expenses. These disbursements occurred one day before new state legislation restricting the personal use of campaign funds became operative. Campaign finance filings show one payment of $200,000 went to the […]
- Virginia’s Children With Disabilities Keep Crying Out. Their Leaders Keep Looking Away
She is eleven years old and already carries a weight no child should have to bear. On some mornings she still wakes with the quiet hope that today might be different — that the classroom will feel manageable, that the adults will notice when her body starts to tighten, that someone will offer the support […]
- Fairfax County Directs Over $3 Billion to Public Schools in Proposed Budget
Fairfax County officials have introduced a $5.9 billion budget that directs a historic amount of funding toward the public school system. Fairfax County Public Schools will receive $3.05 billion under the proposed spending plan, which accounts for more than half of the entire county budget. The allocation represents a 51.2 percent share of the general […]
- Virginia Democrats Push Massive Budget Expansion Replete With New Taxes and Unprecedented Spending
Governor Abigail Spanberger and Democratic leaders in Richmond have finalized a state budget that drastically expands the size and scope of Virginia government. The newly approved spending plan features a record-shattering $2 billion in new public education funding and creates massive new entitlement programs at the expense of taxpayers. While proponents argue these measures are […]