The 2026 Virginia General Assembly has commenced, and the 60-day Session will be what it always is, a sprint. As of the submission date for this article, very few bills have been filed, but by the time you read this article, the legislative tracking system will be filled with roughly 3,000 bills and resolutions for consideration. Below are broad policy topics that will spark tremendous discussion. Updates will be provided throughout the Session on these and other major issue areas.
Appropriations
Governor Youngkin’s final budget will quickly meet the fate of all outgoing Governors: a 600+ page paperweight. The question is: What does the new budget look like? Are there significant differences between the Senate and House versions? What amendments does Governor-elect Spanberger make?
Data Centers
One of the biggest topics to catapult into relevance in recent years has been the discussion on Data Centers. They play a pivotal role in modernizing the Virginia economy and in national security issues. The issue, and there are several: Where to site them? What incentive package is needed to attract one? What are the financial benefits to the locality for approving a site? How much energy will it consume? What is its impact on groundwater? And many more.
Energy
It has been several years since the Virginia Clean Economy Act was passed, and there has been ongoing discussion about how to meet Virginia’s renewable energy goals and protect ratepayers from rising electricity costs. What does the future of solar, storage, nuclear, gas, etc., look like in the Commonwealth?
Technology
Lawmakers across the globe are working to adapt to the ever-rapidly changing technology landscape. What do we do able the reported dangers of social media? How do we protect people’s personal data? What role do web3 and blockchain play, and can Virginia adapt quickly enough to be a beacon for the industry? Then there is any and all things pertaining to A.I.
Healthcare
Medicaid and Medicare have a dramatic impact on Virginia’s budget, much like the impact healthcare costs have on families. Attempts to rein in costs and increase access are evergreen issues. They will certainly receive their due attention.
Housing
There is a housing affordability crisis. That cannot be disputed. It is not a quick or easy issue to solve. Generally, the thought has been to “build more”. What does that look like? Changes to zoning? Faster turnaround time on permits? Additionally, numerous bills will affect the relationship between the housing provider and the tenant.
Gaming
This has become a more prevalent issue in the Commonwealth. Currently, 5 casinos are approved to operate in Virginia. Now, Northern Virginia and Roanoke are seeking to add casinos to their economic development plans. There will be discussion on numerous other types of gaming, including skill games and internet lottery.
General Interest
Every year, there are a handful of bills that pop up out of nowhere to grab the attention of legislators. What will that be this year?
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