VirginiaHB302026 Special Session IHouseWALLET

Budget Bill.

Sponsored By: Luke E. Torian (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Summary

Budget Bill. Provides for all appropriations of the Budget submitted by the Governor of Virginia in accordance with the provisions of § 2.2-1509 of the Code of Virginia, and provides a portion of revenues for the two years ending respectively on the thirtieth day of June 2027 and the thirtieth day of June 2028.

Personalized for You

How does this bill affect your finances?

Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this bill means for your household, plus every other piece of legislation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.

Free to download

Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1,415 provisions identified: 943 benefits, 177 costs, 295 mixed.

Death benefit for fallen service members

An eligible surviving spouse or dependent receives an additional $20,000 death benefit when a National Guard or U.S. military reserve member was killed in armed conflict on or after October 7, 2001. The Virginia Retirement System determines eligibility with help from the Department of Military Affairs. The provision took effect July 1, 2017.

One-time payment to Messiah Johnson

The state pays Messiah Johnson $1,312,810 from the general fund. No transition-grant amounts are deducted. The law does not give a calendar payment date.

$25,000 for eligible sterilization survivors

A verified eligible claim can receive a one-time payment of $25,000, if funds are available. The budget provides $75,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028, and unused money carries forward. Claims are handled in the order complete documentation is provided. The person must have been living on February 1, 2015; an authorized representative may file, and an estate or personal representative may file for someone who died on or after that date.

Longer coverage after local job loss

Employees who qualify for transitional severance and had health coverage before an involuntary separation keep the employer’s share of health premiums for 12 months. Applicable group life insurance also continues. After that period, employees can purchase continued health coverage under COBRA.

Lower marketplace premiums for some households

Virginia provides $150 million for premium assistance on qualified marketplace plans for plan year 2027. Households must have income at least 138% and below 250% of the federal poverty level. The state marketplace must set rules intended to lower average monthly net premiums by as much as 70%. Funds left on June 30, 2027, carry into FY2028.

Medicaid and CHIP members pay less

Virginia Medicaid and CHIP members do not pay copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles under this provision. The change took effect April 1, 2022, or when the federal COVID-19 public health emergency ended, whichever came first.

More Medicaid and FAMIS access

The law requires the state to enroll and serve applicants who qualify for FAMIS, and agencies must help local teams access Medicaid services for eligible children receiving Children’s Services Act services. Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia authorizes 12,520 Community Living waiver slots and 8,559 Family and Individuals Support slots; the Building Independence waiver has 400 authorized slots. Medicaid also pays for coded collaborative-care behavioral health services and agencies must connect certain expansion applicants and enrollees subject to federal work requirements with job and training opportunities. The state must streamline Medicaid enrollment for incarcerated people, but the law does not change who qualifies or guarantee a waiver slot.

More state coverage for cancer and mental health

The State Employee Health Plan must cover medically necessary patient costs for qualifying Phase II, III, and IV cancer trials. Phase I treatment may be covered case by case. Coverage excludes research costs, non-health services, and investigational drugs or devices. The plan must treat listed biologically based mental illnesses like other illnesses for deductibles, copays, coinsurance, limits, and benefit maximums.

Higher pay for legislative assistants

The law sets yearly pay and support amounts for General Assembly staff. It provides $133,843 for Speaker secretaries, $365,179 for Speaker legislative assistants, and $256,511 for Senate leadership assistants. Other assistant support ranges from $55,275 per House member to $62,183 per Senate member, with additional support and specified leadership allowances. Eligible assistants can also receive a session per diem and mileage for one weekly round trip between Richmond and home; only one person per member can receive these payments each week.

Higher pay for public officials

Qualifying sheriffs receive a 9.3% annual salary increase for 12 months after timely certification; the raise depends on state funding. Circuit court clerks’ listed annual salaries range from $106,374 to $196,303 for August 2026 through June 2027, and from $110,097 to $203,174 for July 2027 through June 2028. Local treasurer salaries also rise under population-based schedules, with some qualifying city treasurers receiving 75% of the listed amount. Substitute district court judges receive $350 for a full day and $175 for shorter service beginning July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028. The state also funds attorney pay adjustments but does not set an individual amount.

Higher salaries for local election officials

Beginning August 1, 2026, general registrars’ annual salaries depend on locality population. They range from $83,495 to $169,143 through June 30, 2027, and from $86,417 to $175,063 for the following year. Registrars in named localities also receive a 15% supplement, and a population decline cannot lower an incumbent’s salary. Electoral-board secretaries receive population-based annual pay ranging from $2,876 to $12,910 in the first period and $2,977 to $13,362 in the second; other board members receive half the secretary’s pay. The schedules end June 30, 2028.

Higher salaries for local public officers

Virginia sets population-based annual salaries for commissioners of the revenue and combined treasurer-and-commissioner officers for August 2026 through June 2027 and July 2027 through June 2028. For populations under 10,000, the listed salaries are $83,495 and $86,417; for populations of 250,000 or more, they are $169,143 and $175,063. Commonwealth’s attorneys’ salaries range from $162,796 to $194,454 in the first period and $168,494 to $201,260 in the second. Attorneys serving a county and city together or two or more cities receive an additional $1,000.

Higher salaries for Virginia Supreme Court justices

The law sets the Chief Justice’s annual salary at $252,944 from July 1 through July 24, 2026; $261,797 through June 9, 2027; and $270,960 through June 30, 2028. Associate Justices’ annual salaries are $237,253, $245,557, and $254,151 over those same periods.

Loan help for behavioral health workers

Virginia provides $7.35 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for behavioral health loan repayment. Eligible practitioners must work at an approved site and agree to at least two years of service. Annual awards can cover up to 25% of eligible debt, capped at $50,000 for Tier I or $20,000 for Tier II practitioners. Awards are tax-exempt, and up to two one-year renewals are available.

Military families get college stipends

Qualified survivors and dependents of military service members attending Virginia public colleges can receive up to $2,200 a year for room, board, books, and supplies. The state sets aside $16.78 million for FY2027 and $19.25 million for FY2028. The stipend may change based on the number of eligible students.

More aid options for Virginia students

Students who received aid in 2023–2024 can be considered for state aid using that year’s need measure. They must stay enrolled unless the state council grants an exception. VGAP students with need get grant priority, and students with the greatest need receive at least their tuition. Eligible Virginia students age 27 or younger may also get grants for tuition and required fees; qualifying on-campus students at public bachelor’s colleges can get housing and a standard meal plan. Loans, work-study, and the Student Aid Index do not reduce these grants. Colleges may also use discontinued student-loan fund money only for student grants.

More college aid for students

Eligible Tuition Assistance Grant students at qualifying Virginia colleges can receive extra awards of up to $2,000 at Hispanic-serving colleges or up to $7,500 a year at qualifying Virginia HBCUs. Qualified undergraduate grants are up to $5,250 a year; qualified graduate and medical awards are up to $5,000 a year. Undergraduates pursuing teaching can receive another $500 in their senior year. The state also sets aside $50 million in FY2028 for undergraduate need-based aid at covered public colleges and community colleges, and $2 million each year for SOAR Virginia scholarships. Individual awards depend on program and school eligibility.

More pay incentives for Virginia teachers

Certified public school staff can receive $5,000 for an initial National Board award and $2,500 for each later award year while the certificate remains valid. Qualifying early-career STEM teachers can receive $5,000 per year for up to three years, or $15,000 total. School divisions can also receive grants of up to $30,000 for incentives to qualifying preschool teachers pursuing required degrees and licenses.

More student aid at Norfolk State

Norfolk State has $220,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for juniors and seniors in good academic standing who show additional financial need. The university can also offer merit scholarships covering tuition and required fees to high-achieving undergraduates, subject to separate limits for Virginia and non-Virginia students. Its affordability program receives up to $7,222,765 each year. Pell Grant-eligible Virginia students who meet admission rules and live within 45 miles may qualify for tuition and fee help, with priority for students from Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Newport News. The program aims to serve up to 300 students at a time and may use remaining funds for room and board.

More transition help for separated local workers

A local government can choose to offer severance to eligible workers involuntarily separated for reasons other than poor performance or misconduct. Payments range from four weeks’ salary to as much as 36 weeks, based on service; unemployment compensation reduces the payment. A worker age 50 or older who is vested in a Virginia Retirement System defined-benefit plan can instead choose added retirement age or service credit. The employer purchase costs 15% of current annual compensation for each year purchased, and the number of years depends on the value of benefits otherwise available.

Optometry students get Virginia practice grants

Virginia students attending a school or college of optometry can receive grants of up to $5,000 a year. The budget provides $20,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Recipients must agree to establish a practice in Virginia for at least two years after finishing their instruction.

Paid sick leave for workers

Beginning July 1, 2027, covered employees can use paid sick leave for their own health needs, family care, and specified services related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Employers must provide leave when requested and pay it at the employee’s regular rate, with an hourly floor of Virginia’s minimum wage and no tip-credit reduction. When leave is foreseeable, employees must try to give advance notice and schedule it reasonably. Employers that require notice must give employees a written policy and cannot deny leave under a policy they did not provide.

Pell students get another tuition aid option

The state provides up to $7,222,765 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a college affordability program. Eligible Virginia students must qualify for a Pell Grant, meet the university’s admission rules, and live within 45 miles. The program may serve up to 300 students and cover tuition and fees for up to 150% of required credits. Students from Matoaca, Petersburg, and Colonial Heights high schools receive priority. Remaining funds may help with room and board; spring aid depends on money left after fall recruitment.

Raises and benefits for state workers

The budget provides about $576 million in FY2027 and $598 million in FY2028 for state employee pay and benefit adjustments. Covered employees receive 3.5% salary increases on July 25, 2026, and June 10, 2027. Regional alternative education staff receive supplements equal to 4% of base pay on July 1, 2026, and July 1, 2027; covered juvenile security staff receive a $2,231 increase. The budget also funds trades staff raises and requires a deferred compensation program’s maximum cash match to be at least $20 per pay period, or $40 per month. Eligibility and individual amounts depend on the employee’s position and program rules.

Tuition grants for online students

New students enrolled only in online or distance-learning programs can receive Tuition Assistance Grant awards of up to $2,625 per year. Students enrolled only online in 2019–20 may keep receiving awards up to the 2019–20 amount if they stay enrolled each fiscal year. Their eligibility ends when they finish their current degree or reach the program limit, unless the state grants an exception for cause.

Tuition scholarships for high-achieving VCU students

Virginia Commonwealth University may award merit scholarships to high-achieving students that cover up to annual tuition and required fees. For Virginia and non-Virginia undergraduates separately, the number of awards cannot exceed 20% of that group’s prior-year fall enrollment.

Grants for small business investors

Eligible investors can receive a grant equal to 25% of a qualified investment in a certified small business, up to $50,000. The investment must have been made on or after July 1, 2023, and before January 1, 2026. The state deposits $819,753 into the grant fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028.

Bigger Virginia standard deduction

For tax years 2027 through 2029, taxpayers who do not itemize on their federal return can claim a larger Virginia standard deduction. It is $9,200 for single filers and $18,400 for married filers in 2027. It rises to $9,300 and $18,600 for 2028 and 2029. The deduction returns to $3,000 for single filers and $6,000 for married filers in 2030. A person who can be claimed as a dependent can count only earned income.

Vehicle owners get property tax relief

Virginia provides $950 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for relief from vehicle personal property taxes. Localities use the money to provide relief to vehicle owners. The law does not state how much any individual owner receives.

More grants to prevent community violence

Virginia puts $16 million into the firearm violence prevention fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. At least $1.5 million each year goes to localities with disproportionate firearm homicides; group violence grants receive at least $6 million in FY2027 and $7 million in FY2028. Chesapeake and Virginia Beach each receive at least $500,000 in FY2027. The state also provides $22 million each year for community violence reduction, with set minimums for named cities. Recipient localities must hire a full-time coordinator and report spending every three months.

More support for court-appointed lawyers

Virginia provides about $169 million in FY2027 and $168 million in FY2028 for Criminal Fund costs, including court-appointed defense lawyers. If funds are short, the most serious noncapital felony cases get priority. Death-eligible felony cases use an hourly rate set by the Virginia Supreme Court. The state also provides $6.6 million in each year to hire more public defenders, with some funds available for salary adjustments.

State funds local jail construction

The state reimburses approved construction costs for listed local and regional jail projects. Reimbursements for the projects covered here total up to $44,758,218. Projects under $12 million need final cost approval from Corrections; larger projects need a cost and design review before a maximum reimbursement is set. Final payments cannot exceed each project’s listed cap.

More community mental health services

Virginia provides more than $134 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for STEP-VA community mental health and substance-use services, including crisis care, outpatient care, and dispatch staff. The state also funds remote care, a Fairfax-Falls Church PACT team, outpatient care for youth and young adults, and teams for people leaving state hospitals. Other funding supports dementia and geriatric-care pilots, and the state can contract for up to eight beds in a Chesapeake psychiatric unit if the General Assembly provides money. The law also funds repairs at state behavioral health facilities and requires local boards and the department to report on STEP-VA spending and services each year.

More funding for child care and preschool

Virginia provides about $717 million for early childhood programs in FY2027 and $695 million in FY2028. Funding includes child care subsidies, preschool, and Mixed Delivery programs. The Employee Child Care Assistance Pilot receives $25 million in FY2027 and no funding in FY2028. The law also provides about $2.6 million each year for state child care programs; these are program funds, not set payments to each family.

More funding for children’s services

Virginia provides about $541 million for the Children’s Services Act state pool in FY2027 and about $576 million in FY2028. The money supports local services for eligible children, not direct household payments. The state may move general funds between the Medicaid and non-Medicaid pools when either has a shortage, with approval from the Department of Planning and Budget.

More funding for rural health care

Virginia provides $200 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for its Rural Health Transformation Program. DMAS can hire up to 13 restricted staff using program funds. The money cannot create state funding or service obligations, and DMAS cannot start systems or personnel actions that create state costs beyond the federal grant period.

More money for UVA patient care

UVA Medical Center receives about $3.9 billion for FY2027 and $4.1 billion for FY2028. The money supports care, treatment, health services, and education activities for Virginia patients, including indigent and medically indigent patients. Patient care also supports health-student education.

More school funding for special education

The state provides an estimated $112.7 million in FY2027 and $107.7 million in FY2028 for eligible intensive special-education costs. The Department of Education must expand the disability categories that qualify, including considering students with complex behavioral needs. Of the FY2027 funding, $10 million is reserved for expanded categories and carries forward for that purpose in FY2028. School divisions also receive added support for special-education teachers and speech-pathologist caseloads, plus 9.25% and 17.5% add-ons for Service Level I and II students.

Lottery and alcohol profits fund public budgets

The state transfers estimated lottery profits of about $888 million in the first year and $878 million in the second year to the Lottery Proceeds Fund. Audits can lead to later transfers to reconcile estimates with actual profits. Alcoholic Beverage Control Enterprise Fund profits, estimated at $146.3 million in the first year and $133.3 million in the second, go quarterly to the general fund and localities.

Virginia funds major public construction projects

The law reserves up to $1.11 billion in qualifying FY2026 extra revenue for capital projects, replacing bond proceeds; it cannot use money needed for the required reserve deposit. It provides $260 million in FY2027 and $150 million in FY2028 for maintenance, plus $49.3 million for equipment and $20.2 million for project planning. The central construction pool includes $732.9 million in general funds and $174.5 million in other funds in year one, plus $836.1 million in bond proceeds that year and $220 million in FY2028; authorized bond principal is capped at $1.056 billion. The law also provides $94 million in special funds for the State Corporation Commission building project in FY2028, which cannot use Commonwealth bond financing.

More funding for Virginia roads and transit

The law funds road, rail, and transit work across Virginia. It supports local road projects, passenger rail, WMATA, and maintenance of transportation facilities. Examples include $50 million each year for passenger rail matching funds and $632 million in FY2027 for local ground transportation. Most funds pay for public projects or debt, not direct household payments.

More money for roads and transit

The state directs an estimated $546.3 million to mass transit in each of FY2027 and FY2028, plus $153 million in FY2027 for extra Washington-area transit costs. Highway maintenance receives about $2.59 billion in FY2027 and $2.61 billion in FY2028. Other funding includes $20 million each year for Hampton Roads transit and up to $1.5 million each year for rail safety. Transportation commissions, highway programs, and prior-year project balances also receive billions in estimated allocations; actual commission distributions depend on collections.

More money for Virginia roads and transit

VDOT receives about $401 million in FY2027 and $406 million in FY2028 for administration and support. Regional authorities receive hundreds of millions each year: Northern Virginia gets about $460 million and $485 million, Hampton Roads $325 million and $333 million, and Central Virginia $248 million and $255 million. Hampton Roads and Central Virginia also receive district fuel-tax revenue, estimated at $73.8 million and $63.7 million in FY2027, rising to $77.1 million and $66.4 million in FY2028. Dumfries receives $7 million in FY2027 for the U.S. Route 1 corridor; unspent money carries forward.

State funding for debt payments

Virginia appropriates about $1.07 billion for specified state debt obligations in FY2027 and about $1.09 billion in FY2028. The funds cover required debt service, including certain payments if pledged revenues are not enough.

More Medicaid support for hospitals

Virginia provides indigent-care and related Medicaid funding to VCU Health and UVA Health in FY2027 and FY2028. VCU receives $7.1 million in state funds and $26.4 million in other funds in FY2027, then $10.0 million and $29.2 million in FY2028. UVA receives $35.5 million in state funds and $50.3 million in other funds in FY2027, then $39.1 million and $53.9 million in FY2028. Extra non-state funds require each health system to certify public spending, and federal hospital payments must follow federal law. The state may also increase Medicaid payments to Type One hospitals and their doctors, within available funding, including payments for medical education.

More college aid for Pell-eligible students

The state funds higher-education student assistance with an estimated $169.9 million in FY2027 and $167.1 million in FY2028. Colleges also compete for $37.5 million in grants each year to recruit, enroll, and retain Pell-eligible students, with priority for colleges below the average Pell enrollment. The law does not set an individual award amount, and the college grants depend on applications and performance outcomes.

More funding for colleges and research

The state provides about $1.16 billion for community college programs in FY2027 and $1.14 billion in FY2028. It also sets aside $85 million each year for higher-education programs and $13.5 million each year for equipment at three research institutions. Another $112.44 million in bond proceeds supports named university facilities and research projects. These funds support institutions; the law does not promise lower tuition or fees.

More money for college equipment and bonds

Virginia public colleges and universities receive $97.7 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for teaching and research equipment. The law also provides about $544 million in FY2027 and $562 million in FY2028 for college project bond payments. Higher-education equipment bond payments receive about $101 million and $105 million in those years. These funds support institutions and projects, not direct student payments.

Adoption support limited for some families

Families adopting through a parental placement cannot get adoption subsidies or support services. The limit does not apply when a child-placing agency is the child’s legal guardian at adoption. Existing assistance agreements are not affected.

Tighter rules for some student aid

G3 aid is limited to households at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level and students in approved high-demand programs. Students must apply for eligible aid, take at least six credits per semester when taking credit-bearing classes, and meet academic progress rules. Private colleges must meet Virginia location, nonprofit, educational-purpose, and accreditation rules to join state aid programs. No more than 50% of designated graduate grant funds may go to students who do not qualify for Virginia resident classification, subject to a legal exception.

Land tax credit capped at $20,000

For tax years from 2017 through 2022, a taxpayer could claim up to $20,000 of the Virginia Land Preservation Tax Credit per year. Starting with tax years in 2024, the same $20,000 yearly cap applies. Both limits include credit carried over from earlier years.

Marijuana sellers face decal penalties

Marijuana sellers and businesses marketing or labeling marijuana products must display a Board-issued decal. Missing a required decal costs $10,000 per day. Making a false decal costs $10,000 per decal, and displaying one costs $10,000 per day. These penalties may apply together.

Cannabis businesses face stronger tax collection

Unpaid marijuana taxes accrue interest. The Authority can assess taxes within three years, or six years for a fraudulent return or failure to file, and can estimate sales when records are missing. After required notice and nonpayment, it can place a lien and may padlock a business. A business that remains unpaid without a payment plan for three business days may face further collection; unauthorized entry into a padlocked site is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Limits and penalties for home cannabis growing

Adults age 21 or older can grow up to four marijuana plants for personal use at their main home, with a four-plant limit for the whole household. Growers must keep plants out of public view, prevent access by people under 21, and label each plant; a violation can bring a civil penalty up to $25. Possessing more than four ounces but no more than one pound in public can bring a misdemeanor, while more than one pound can bring one to 10 years in prison, a fine up to $250,000, or both. Exceptions include possession at home and certain licensed or official duties.

Future teachers get grants with service rules

The state provides $240,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Grow Your Own Teacher grants. Eligible recipients can get $7,500 per academic year for up to four years. They must have qualified for free lunch in high school, graduate from a Virginia college, begin teaching within one year, and commit to four years at a qualifying public school in their local division. The grant is not paid if the recipient fails or refuses to meet the commitment.

Future teachers get loans with forgiveness

Eligible students in approved teacher programs can receive loans of up to $10,000 a year if studying full time. Part-time awards are prorated. Half the loan is forgiven after one year of qualifying teaching, but recipients must teach for at least two years in a qualifying shortage area or school. The Department can recover funds if the teaching obligation is not met. The state provides $2.208 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028.

G3 students get tuition and living-cost help

Eligible students receive last-dollar help with tuition, required fees, and textbooks after other qualified federal and state aid is applied. Full-time students who receive a full Federal Pell Grant can also get up to $2,250 a year, capped at $900 per semester and $450 per summer term. Students who withdraw or stop attending get no further payments and may have to repay money already received.

Paid sick leave reaches more workers

Paid sick leave coverage expands in stages: employers with at least 50 employees are covered beginning July 1, 2027; the limit drops to 25 employees on January 1, 2028, and to one employee on January 1, 2029. Covered leave can be used to care for listed family members and certain people who depend on the employee for care. Employers cannot require a replacement worker or make-up shift, and they must protect leave-related health and safety information. Employers may request reasonable proof for leave lasting three or more consecutive work days, and may set leave increments no longer than four hours. Employers cannot retaliate against workers for using or enforcing leave rights.

Hemp businesses face a $500,000 license fee

The Authority must issue up to 20 licenses by May 1, 2027: no more than 10 cultivation licenses and 10 processing licenses. Eligible applicants must meet licensing rules and pay a one-time $500,000 fee, either in full or through an approved plan lasting no more than three years. Applicants must have completed the required Virginia hemp registration before January 1, 2021, and former registrants must meet good-standing and disclosure rules.

High fee for cannabis processor privileges

Pharmaceutical processors can use dual-use cannabis privileges beginning May 1, 2027, after meeting licensing rules and paying a one-time $10 million fee. They can instead enter a Board-approved payment plan by that date, lasting no more than three years. They must also join an impact-licensee business accelerator for at least three years. The streamlined application process is due by February 1, 2027.

More Medicaid funding, hospital assessments

Virginia can provide up to $350 million in FY2027 if regular Medicaid funding is not enough to meet costs; the DMAS director must show the shortfall. The state can also assess covered hospitals each quarter to fund the nonfederal share and administration of expanded Medicaid coverage. That assessment equals the nonfederal share of expansion costs multiplied by 1.02; a payment more than 30 days late carries a 5% penalty. The hospital assessment requires federal approval if needed.

More money for school operations

Virginia provides an estimated $336 million in FY2027 and $276 million in FY2028 for school infrastructure and operations. The estimated state share is $510.98 per pupil in FY2027 and $422.56 in FY2028, subject to enrollment changes. Localities must provide a match, use the money for education, and spend at least 40% on nonrecurring costs. Small divisions receive at least $200,000 each year.

More school technology and devices

Virginia provides about $56 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for school technology grants. Grants support online testing and school connectivity; localities generally provide a 20% match, with at least 25% of that match used for teacher training. Qualifying schools can also receive $400 per ninth-grade student for a laptop or tablet and $2,400 per school for teacher tools. Participating divisions cover ongoing electronic textbook and device maintenance costs.

More state aid for school services

The state funds English learner positions, regional alternative education, and schooling for children in specified facilities. English learner aid is $218.9 million in FY2027 and $224.9 million in FY2028; local divisions provide a match based on ability to pay. Regional alternative education gets $10.3 million and $10.6 million, while facility education gets $46.3 million and $48.0 million. School divisions also receive $12.2 million in FY2027 and $13.1 million in FY2028 for eligible nonresident pupils, including some former foster-care youth ages 18 through 21.

More support for smaller school classes

Virginia provides about $173 million in FY2027 and $172 million in FY2028 to help reduce kindergarten-through-grade-three class sizes. Localities must provide a match based on their ability to pay, and participating schools must meet class-size and teacher-ratio rules. Divisions must report staffing data by October 15 each year.

Billions for local school funding

The state sends an estimated $627.9 million in the first year and $644 million in the second year to local public education programs. Transfers happen monthly, no later than 10 days after the money enters the fund. If education appropriations still fall short after available transfers, the Department of Education may reduce payments proportionately across divisions in affected programs.

More money for school resources

The state funds school retirement costs with up to $360 million in the first year and $275 million in the second. It also provides about $104.9 million and $104.3 million for textbooks and other instruction, based on $159.41 per pupil each year. Local governments must match the textbook funds based on their ability to pay. About $177.8 million and $177.5 million support vocational education instructors and programs.

More state funding for public schools

The law directs large Lottery and sales-tax revenues to public schools and localities. Lottery distributions are estimated at $895.7 million in the first year and $877.7 million in the second; sales-tax funds support school staffing and property-tax relief. At-risk school funding includes $869.3 million and $816.6 million in general funds, plus Lottery funds of $138.7 million and $184.9 million. Some funds require local matching contributions, based on local ability to pay.

Sales tax funds local schools

Virginia raises the state sales-and-use tax by 0.375 cents and transfers an estimated $627.9 million in the first year and $644 million in the second year to schools and local governments. The money is meant to ease education-related pressure on local real-estate taxes, but the law does not state how much any household saves.

Eligible records can be sealed

Beginning July 1, 2026, some eligible criminal records are sealed automatically after seven years without a qualifying new conviction. The offense must meet the law's offense and date rules, including a date on or after January 1, 1986, for automatic sealing. Eligible people can also petition the circuit court where the case ended to seal covered criminal and court records. For listed offenses, the court must order sealing after seven qualifying years; required information must be included when reasonably available.

Higher pay for court-appointed advocates

Beginning July 1, 2026, guardians ad litem receive $87 per hour for court time and $63 per hour for work outside court. The state provides $3.25 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to support the higher rates. It also provides $5.175 million each year for increased payments to court-appointed lawyers; the law does not state each lawyer’s rate.

Legal help for foster parents

The law funds a legal services pilot in Roanoke City for parents and guardians involved in child dependency cases. The pilot receives $375,000 each year from the general fund, plus $125,000 in FY2027 and $121,150 in FY2028 from nongeneral funds. The child must be a candidate for or in Title IV-E foster care, and the provider must meet the stated legal-service and funding requirements.

More deaf services for Virginians

The law provides $238,200 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a deaf mentor program for children. It also provides $40,000 each year for equipment and community services for deaf and hard-of-hearing people in southwest Virginia. The law does not set individual payments or a household eligibility formula.

More legal aid for low-income Virginians

The state provides up to $9.13 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for civil legal aid for low-income Virginians. The Community Tax Law Project receives up to $75,000 in each year for legal help with tax disputes and taxpayer education. Neither grant sets an individual benefit amount.

More services for Virginia veterans

The government provides $3.75 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to expand veterans’ services. The money supports more benefits offices, staff, and programs for veterans and their families. Offices are to open in areas with the greatest need.

More support for Virginia refugees

Virginia provides $55.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for its refugee assistance program. The state reports by December 1 each year on the people served, services provided, and funding by service type. The law does not set individual payment amounts.

Payments for relatives caring for children

Virginia provides $6,173,560 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for maintenance payments to relatives caring for children. Total participation cannot exceed available funding. The law does not set an individual caregiver’s payment amount.

Remaining annuity paid by June 2027

The insurer must pay Victor Burnette the remaining annuity balance in one lump sum by June 30, 2027. The amount is discounted to its value on the payment date. No further annuity payments are due afterward.

Utility bill credits for some customers

Beginning July 1, 2026, qualifying Virginia residential, Small General Service, and church customers receive a utility bill credit. The credits use 45% of revenue collected under the program. Bills must show the credit as “RGGI Credit,” but the law does not set an individual credit amount.

Utility bill help for low-income customers

The Percentage of Income Payment Program helps pay utility bills for qualifying low-income customers of Dominion Energy or Appalachian Power who participate in the program. It receives $119.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028. Total annual program costs are capped at $125 million, including up to $5.5 million for administration.

Clearer prices and medical debt protections

Before agreeing to buy goods or a continuous service, consumers must be told the total cost, including required fees. Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia treats violations of the Medical Debt Protection Act as prohibited consumer practices; this provision does not describe the Act's specific rules or remedies.

Driving privileges restored for unpaid court debt

Virginia courts cannot suspend driving privileges only because someone owes fines, court costs, forfeitures, restitution, or penalties. The state must restore qualifying suspensions from before July 1, 2019, and waive related reinstatement fees. This does not apply if another lawful suspension or license ineligibility applies.

Fewer toll cases can block registration

For the specified toll violations, the Commissioner may refuse registration only when the owner or operator has no prior settlement or conviction resolution. The toll operator must have offered a settlement of $2,200 or less, and the statute’s other conditions must also be met.

More Elizabeth River toll relief

The law provides $24 million in FY2028 for extra Elizabeth River Tunnel toll relief. Drivers must earn under $50,000 and meet the listed location and vehicle rules. Eligible drivers can receive up to 100% relief on as many as 14 tunnel trips per week. A new transponder and prepaid balance are only for drivers who have not joined the existing relief program or opened a Virginia E-ZPass account. The program ends in FY2036.

Broader Medicaid care and access

Virginia must adjust medically needy Medicaid income limits each year for inflation. The law directs the state to seek federal approval for continuous coverage during pregnancy and for 12 months after birth, and for more medical equipment coverage outside the home. Medicaid can cover more remote care, including phone visits, consultations, and virtual check-ins, when clinically appropriate. The law also supports remote services in three disability waivers, preventive care for some adults, adult access to COVID-19 vaccines, and payment to qualifying family caregivers; some changes need federal approval.

Cash and savings help for TANF families

Able-bodied two-parent families that cannot get TANF cash assistance can receive help through a separate state-funded program. Its basic payment cannot be less than the family’s TANF amount, though the law gives no fixed dollar amount. The state also provides $2,120,420 in TANF funds each year for matched savings accounts for TANF-eligible people. Savings can support a home purchase, education, starting a business, transportation, or self-sufficiency; DSS sets the match rate.

Child-care help for employee families

The Employee Child Care Assistance Pilot receives $25 million in FY2027 and no state general funds in FY2028. Eligible families may receive a state match of up to 40% of slot costs after their copayment. Income limits apply, and the money is distributed first-come, first-served. For families at or below 300% of the federal poverty level, expected copayments cannot exceed 5% of household income.

Crisis help for Northern Virginia families

Northern Virginia Family Services receives $2.125 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for needs-based crisis support. Services include food, help preventing homelessness, access to health care, and adult job development. The law requires quarterly reports on service-recipient survey results.

Health coverage options for state retirees

Retired state employees can obtain coverage through the state employee health plan, with vision and dental coverage as options. Virginia may pay all, part, or none of the cost, so retirees may still have to pay premiums.

Health plans must cover a state benefit

Insurers must include the state-mandated health benefit in all qualified health plans offered in Virginia. The law does not describe the benefit or say how it may affect premiums.

Help with medicine and coverage access

Virginia funds help with tuberculosis medicines, prescription costs, and approved birth control. Eligible Virginia Medication Assistance Program participants must meet income rules and have Medicare drug coverage; funds can also support people in state HIV prevention programs. The state also funds medical-assistance enrollment help and requires local departments to connect pregnant Medicaid applicants to the Cover Virginia call center, except when they must apply locally for other benefits. These changes support access but do not set individual payment amounts or change Medicaid eligibility.

Help with uncovered care placement costs

The state must cover expenses for a person placed through the pilot program in an assisted living facility, nursing home, group home, or similar setting when no other public or private help is available. The law also lets the social-services agency raise covered care rates or personal care allowances when federal benefit rates rise, or when needed to preserve Medicaid funding eligibility. Any rate or allowance increase needs approval from the state budget agency and is not guaranteed.

Higher possible Medicaid Works limit

The law lets the Department of Medical Assistance Services raise the Medicaid Works income limit to 138% of the federal poverty level. The higher limit is not automatic; people may qualify if the agency makes the change and their income is within the limit.

Medicaid service choices stay protected

Virginia keeps dental, developmental-disability waiver, and other excluded services outside Cardinal Care managed care contracts unless the General Assembly approves adding them. Children can keep Medicaid managed care enrollment while receiving residential treatment, while listed facility services are paid fee-for-service. Medicaid recipients who choose local government-owned nursing homes receive fee-for-service coverage and choice protections if the required federal payment schedule had not been approved by June 30, 2017.

More access to long-acting birth control

Virginia provides $3 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to support access to long-acting birth control. Patients must have income below 250% of the federal poverty level and use a qualified provider. The state also funds awareness and outreach, including for women with substance use disorder diagnoses seeking family-planning care.

More access to mental health care

Virginia funds psychiatric access, children’s mental health services, and emergency and community care. It provides $17.7 million each year for crisis services and $1.9 million each year for community care in Health Planning Region V. Other funding supports the Adult Psychiatric Access Line, children’s services, and private psychiatric care intended to divert some state hospital admissions.

More access to vaccines and required tests

Pharmacists can give FDA-approved flu and COVID-19 vaccines to people age three and older, following the maker’s directions. Supervised pharmacy technicians and interns can give them too. This authority ends June 30, 2027. Virginia cannot deny a state-required public health lab test because a person cannot pay; this does not make all tests free.

More care after state hospital stays

Virginia provides $35.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for community or private inpatient care for eligible state hospital patients ready for discharge. The funding also supports people receiving discharge-plan services. Each year, $1.305 million is reserved for people who live or lived at Western State Hospital.

More care at clinics for uninsured Virginians

Virginia funds community health centers, free clinics, and federally qualified health centers to support care for uninsured people. The funding includes $4.3 million each year for community health center operations, $7.3 million each year for free clinics, and $5.5 million in FY2027 and $500,000 in FY2028 for federally qualified health centers. Uninsured patients at community health centers with family income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level can also receive pharmacy services. In Williamsburg, James City County, and York County, Olde Towne Medical Center provides primary, preventive, pregnancy-related, and oral care to uninsured, Medicaid, and Medicare residents.

More care for sickle cell patients

Virginia provides $900,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for its pediatric sickle cell program. Remaining funds support young people who need help moving to adult services. The state also provides $1.32 million each year for a comprehensive adult sickle cell program.

More cash aid for eligible families

The state does not count one vehicle when deciding eligibility for TANF or the separate state cash aid program for able-bodied two-parent families. For cash-aid recipients whose child support is collected for them, the state returns up to $100 per month. It also leaves up to $100 per month out of cash-aid eligibility and benefit calculations.

More child-care and cash help for TANF families

TANF recipients whose assistance unit includes at least two children receive a monthly supplement based on collected child support. It is capped at $200, reduced by the $100 disregard, and paid within two months after collection. Virginia also provides $56.8 million each year for child care needed by VIEW participants. The state must transfer the agreed federal child-care funds within the first 30 days of each fiscal year.

More community substance-use care

Virginia provides $1 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for community detox and sobriety services for people in crisis. It provides another $2.4 million each year for substance-use treatment and support. Funded services must focus on recovery and use best practices, including for people with acquired brain injury and substance-use disorders.

More counseling help for crime survivors

Qualifying crime survivors can receive up to $5,000 per claim for mental health counseling, instead of the usual $3,500 limit. Reimbursement cannot exceed eligible counseling costs. The claimant must meet the law’s definition of a covered survivor.

More early learning help for families

The state provides $38.8 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for early learning services for children from birth through age five. Families may qualify based on factors such as income at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines. Localities apply each year, and payments may be reduced to fit available funds. Add-on grants support about 2,000 children in community or private preschool settings, subject to local child-care market-rate limits.

More earnings protected for waiver users

People who earn income and receive certain Medicaid waiver services can qualify for the special earnings allowance by working at least four but fewer than 20 hours a week. The allowance leaves some earned income out when the state calculates their contribution to service costs.

More health and peer support for veterans

Virginia provides $5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for suicide prevention and opioid addiction intervention affecting service members, veterans, and their families. The state also provides up to $25,000 each year for veteran peer support, with state departments helping when a regional authority board requests it. The Department of Military Affairs pays employer contributions for coverage for active-duty Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force members.

More health care at public schools

Virginia provides $15 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for school-based or mobile clinics offering mental health, primary medical, and other services. The state must also arrange a statewide contract for student mental-health care. School divisions choose whether to buy services through that contract, so access depends on local participation.

More health care for low-income Virginians

Virginia funds care for low-income or uninsured residents through local clinics and community programs. FY2027 and FY2028 funding includes $1.32 million a year for free-clinic medicines and pharmacy services, $32,559 a year for Rappahannock-area care, and $29,303 a year for services in four Fairfax County communities. Other annual support includes $53,241 for preventive care in Northern Virginia, $5,982 for Louisa County assistance, and $6.16 million for indigent patient care through Old Dominion University. Families Forward receives $832,946 in state funds and $2.4 million in federal funds each year for at-risk children; $24,679 a year supports three Roanoke-area public health nurse positions.

More health plan protections for state workers

The state employee health plan must cover specified hysterectomy hospital stays, obesity treatment, colorectal cancer screening, and infant hearing screenings. It must offer at least two plan options in each planning district, including a qualifying high-deductible plan. Members can request a medically necessary drug not on the formulary, with a decision within one business day and no higher cost-sharing than for the listed drug. The plan must also share pharmacy-cost details, keep staff available for required preauthorization, give 30 days’ notice before benefit reductions, continue enrolled family coverage for at least 30 days after an employee’s death, and preserve coverage for certain employees transferred to the Cannabis Control Authority.

More HIV care and insurance help

Virginia provides $6.6 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for HIV care services. It also provides $556,702 each year for insurance payment assistance for applicants with HIV and income at or below 250% of the federal poverty threshold. The law does not state an individual assistance amount.

More language help for public services

The Virginia Department of Social Services must provide meaningful language help to people with limited English who qualify for its federally funded services. The department must assess needs, translate vital documents for commonly served language groups, provide timely oral interpretation, and create an implementation plan.

More local crisis care and treatment

Virginia provides $1.8 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for crisis assessment centers in six rural communities without these services. It also provides $708,663 each year for diversion and treatment services in up to three rural communities. The state is creating an adult crisis center for people age 18 and older in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell Counties and Lynchburg City, using existing crisis-center funds.

More Medicaid care for pregnant people and children

The law expands FAMIS pregnancy coverage to include prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care for pregnancies where the child will have a qualifying U.S. status at birth. It also requires the state to seek federal approval for substance-use treatment for eligible FAMIS MOMS members. Medicaid can pay for qualifying health services provided through schools, even when a student has no individualized education program. Other changes extend fluoride varnish coverage to children through age 5, remove a dental billing limit for adults with disabilities, and pay for dental evaluations before deep sedation or general anesthesia.

More Medicaid medicine and monitor coverage

Beginning July 1, 2025, Virginia Medicaid covers certain long-acting medicines given in hospitals for serious mental illness or substance use disorder. It also covers glucose monitors and supplies for eligible people with diabetes who meet medical and training rules and keep up with required follow-up visits. Medicaid and CHIP members can get up to a 12-month supply of prescription contraceptives. Starting July 1, 2026, Virginia seeks federal approval to cover sickle cell treatments through a federal model.

More medication treatment for substance use

The law provides $5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for medication treatment for people with substance-use disorders, with providers required to prioritize people without insurance. Some funding supports long-acting treatment during probation, incarceration, or release; other funds support non-addictive options for people unable to use buprenorphine or methadone. Another $150,000 each year supports treatment connected to approved specialty dockets, including medication and counseling costs not covered elsewhere.

More personal care money for grant recipients

Beginning January 1, 2024, eligible Auxiliary Grant recipients receive $87 per month for personal care. They must live in a licensed assisted living facility or an approved adult foster care home. The law does not state the previous allowance amount.

More protection for nursing home residents

Virginia uses nursing-facility civil money penalties to protect residents’ health or property. The state provides $10.135 million in FY2027 and $6.035 million in FY2028. Funds can support relocation, specified facility costs, and repayment for residents’ lost money or property.

More services for people with disabilities

Virginia funds services for people with developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and other needs. Brain injury services receive $11.9 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028, including grants up to $150,000 for underserved areas. The state also funds a Loudoun transition program with $89,396 each year and inclusion services with $200,000 each year. New developmental disability waiver slots must be allocated by the first day of the fiscal year. Other provisions support continued health coverage in one specific line-of-duty case, prioritize certain Falls Church residents for Miller House openings, and describe broader services at the Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center.

More SNAP help and work options

Virginia provides $135 million for SNAP benefits in FY2028; the listed FY2027 amount is $0. SNAP recipients in areas without enough jobs, including designated labor surplus areas, are covered by a work-requirement waiver. To the extent federal law allows, Virginia must ignore at least one household vehicle when checking SNAP resources. Eligible people can also meet the specified work rule with nonprofit volunteer service; monthly hours equal the household’s SNAP allotment divided by the federal minimum wage.

More specialized care options for seniors

Virginia must seek a provider for a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly in the Augusta, Rockingham, and Harrisonburg area. The state may award a contract, but a program is not guaranteed. Virginia also provides $880,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a regional care team serving older adults in nursing and assisted living facilities. Two specialized mental health programs for older adults receive $1 million in each year; that funding may fall if the federal grant is reduced.

More summer food help for children

Virginia provides $105.2 million each year for summer nutrition benefits for children. The law does not state each child’s benefit amount or the program’s eligibility rules.

More support for children with disabilities

Virginia provides $30.6 million each year for early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities. It also provides up to $2.2 million each year for local wraparound services for eligible students with disabilities. By January 1, 2027, the state must use consistent screening rules for children under 18 who need long-term services, subject to federal approval. Screenings are limited to once every six months unless the child has a major life change.

More support for foster families

Virginia must keep an emergency approval process for relatives caring for children in foster care and set certification standards for their homes. The standards support access to monthly financial help, services, and kinship guardianship options. The state also provides $310,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for a foster youth driving program. It can help cover added vehicle insurance costs for providers and insurance costs for youth in the Fostering Futures program.

More treatment support for youth

The state provides $5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for substance use disorder training for providers who serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The funding also supports treatment services for transition-age youth through age 25.

More ways to get cannabis treatment

A Virginia practitioner can certify cannabis treatment for any diagnosed condition the practitioner believes may benefit. Care can use live video visits. A minor’s certification must specifically allow botanical cannabis. Licensed or registered staff at designated caregiver facilities can receive a patient’s cannabis, deliver it later, and help administer it.

Disaster relief for damaged property

Virginia can use up to $11.4 million in unused energy-efficiency funds for residents whose property was lost or damaged in a qualifying 2021 disaster. The event must have happened from August 1 through September 29, 2021, under FEMA declaration FEMA-4628-DR. Up to $18 million is available for qualifying 2022 disaster damage from July 1 through August 30, 2022, under FEMA declaration FEMA-4674-DR. The law does not set individual payment amounts.

Free university housing during breaks

Eligible students can stay in public university housing for free during scheduled academic breaks. Students must qualify under federal homeless assistance law and be registered for the next term. The school must operate housing during the break.

More housing help for people with disabilities

Virginia provides about $89.5 million each year for supportive housing for people with serious mental illness. This includes about $3.4 million each year for pregnant or parenting women with substance-use disorders and $2.5 million for people with serious mental illness in Northern Virginia. Another $18.2 million each year supports rental subsidies for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The state can also accept private-provider proposals for a housing pilot, but no funding or guaranteed placement is set for that pilot.

Correctional staff receive $1,000 bonuses

Department of Corrections employees assigned to a facility receive a $1,000 bonus: $500 in July 2026 and $500 in December 2026. Employees assigned to Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center also receive a $1,000 bonus on the same schedule.

GearUp students get scholarship funding

The state sets aside $5 million in nongeneral funds for GearUp scholarships in FY2027 and another $5 million in FY2028. Students must be eligible for and take part in GearUp. The law does not state how much each student can receive.

Help with counseling licensure costs

Virginia provides $750,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a program to help cover required supervision costs. The program serves graduates of Virginia public colleges’ social work or counseling master’s programs who are seeking licensure. The law does not set an individual payment amount.

Higher pay and disability coverage

Starting January 13, 2028, the House Speaker’s annual salary is $72,000, and other House and Senate members earn $50,000. Court judges receive the listed annual salary rates through June 30, 2028; those rates rise in stages from July 2026 through June 2027. Legislative assistants can join short- and long-term disability plans after Joint Rules Committee approval, but those plans do not provide sick leave or family and personal leave.

Higher pay for legislative staff

The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission director’s annual salary is $212,372 from July 1 through July 24, 2026; $219,805 from July 25, 2026, through June 9, 2027; and $227,498 from June 10, 2027, through June 30, 2028.

Higher pay for Virginia public officials

Sheriff salaries range from $117,128 to $183,831 a year from August 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, and from $121,227 to $190,265 the next year. A sheriff serving a county and city together, or two or more cities, gets an extra $1,000 a year. Eligible commissioners, deputy commissioners, clerks, deputy clerks, treasurers, and deputy treasurers can receive a 9.3% salary increase through career programs, subject to state funding and program rules. The community college chancellor may also receive an annual salary supplement; the amount is not stated.

Higher pay supplements for Governor’s School staff

Instructional and support employees at Virginia Academic Year Governor’s Schools receive a pay supplement equal to 4% of base pay on July 1, 2026, and another 4% on July 1, 2027. The state allocates about $1.2 million in FY2027 and $2.5 million in FY2028 for the supplements.

Loan help and rewards for nursing workers

Certified nurse aides can receive loan repayment of up to $1,000 each, with $35,000 provided in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Eligible Virginia-licensed health professionals can also receive up to $5,000 for a 250-hour clinical teaching rotation with an eligible nursing school. The school must certify the completed hours, and the incentive may be adjusted based on hours completed.

Lower exam fees for eligible students

Public high school students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch pay no more than $20 of the remaining fee for an AP, IB, or Cambridge exam after other discounts and aid. At schools using the Community Eligibility Provision, eligibility depends on the student’s family income. Virginia provides $900,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for this assistance.

Lower textbook and remedial school costs

Virginia public school divisions must provide textbooks to students without charge. The state also provides about $30 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for remedial summer or intersession programs, and students in funded programs cannot be charged tuition. Divisions that charge for summer credit courses must consider the financial circumstances of students repeating a class to graduate, but the law does not guarantee a tuition waiver or reduction.

Lower tuition for nearby reciprocal students

Old Dominion University may charge reduced tuition to students at its TELETECHNET sites or higher education centers who live within 50 miles. Students must qualify for in-state tuition in a state next to Virginia or Washington, D.C., and that jurisdiction must offer similar treatment to Virginia residents. The law does not set the reduced tuition amount.

Marijuana no longer means automatic expulsion

Marijuana alone no longer triggers mandatory expulsion when a student brings it to school or a school event. Mandatory expulsion still applies to specified controlled substances and imitation controlled substances, subject to special rules. School boards must update conduct standards within three months after the law takes effect.

More aid for students in priority fields

At several Virginia colleges, up to 15% of specified student aid funds can support eligible students in data science and technology, science and engineering, healthcare, or education. Funding can also support grants for students in innovative internships. Each internship program needs a private-sector partner, and its grant must have an equal match from allowed non-state or private funds. The provisions do not state total funding or individual award amounts.

More before-school and summer learning

Virginia provides $7.15 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for extended or enriched school programs. Startup grants can reach $300,000 per school, or $400,000 for certain schools, and most divisions must provide a 20% match. The state also provides $2 million each year for before-school, afterschool, and summer programs serving children at high-poverty, low-performing schools.

More job support for people with disabilities

The state provides $8.95 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for two employment support programs for people with disabilities. The money is limited to those programs and permitted administrative costs. Administrative costs cannot exceed 1.61% each year, and the law does not set an individual benefit amount.

More preschool help for at-risk children

Virginia supports preschool for eligible, at-risk children who are not served by Head Start. In FY2027 and FY2028, the state share for a four-year-old’s slot is $10,722 for a full-day program or $5,361 for a half-day program. Some localities receive higher amounts: $11,488 and $5,744 in specified Planning District Eight areas, and $10,913 and $5,456.50 in specified other localities. Grants can also support eligible three-year-olds and children on waitlists, subject to local applications, eligibility rules, and available funding.

More retirement benefits for public workers

Salaried state employees who work at least 20 hours a week can qualify for Virginia Retirement System retirement and group life insurance. Part-time magistrates hired before July 1, 1999, may choose to join. Fort Monroe Authority employees can also join the retirement system and access state employee health, insurance, and other benefits.

More science scholarships for high schoolers

The state provides $100,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for two New Horizons solo academy sessions. The program offers 30 high school students a chance to complete their first solo flight. Another $220,375 each year supports scholarships for high school students in the Virginia Earth System Science Scholars program. The law does not set individual award amounts.

More student aid and internship grants

Colleges may use up to 15% of the relevant student-aid funding for eligible students in data science and technology, science and engineering, healthcare, or education. The funding can also support grants for students in innovative internships. Each internship program needs a private-sector partner, and the grant must have an equal match from the partner or institution. Individual award amounts are not stated.

More support for preschool children

Virginia provides funding in FY2027 and FY2028 for kindergarten readiness, early-childhood teacher training, and classroom quality checks. Preschool programs are expected to include children with an education plan in at least 10% of enrollment and serve them in inclusive classrooms. Classrooms must follow teacher and aide staffing rules, with maximum class sizes of 18 or 20, depending on the classroom. Programs below the inclusion target must report why and how they plan to improve.

More support for recovery high schools

Virginia provides $500,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for year-round high schools serving students in the early stages of recovery from substance use disorder or dependency. Each year, $250,000 supports a school serving Region 4 students and $250,000 supports a school serving Region 2 students. Students must live in the region served by the school.

More transfer students can qualify for grants

Full-time students transferring from a two-year college may qualify for the Virginia Two-Year College Transfer Grant if their Expected Family Contribution, or its equivalent, is no more than $12,000. They must enter a senior institution for the first time as a two-year transfer and meet the other program rules. This provision does not state an award amount.

More work help after TANF ends

People who need employment or training help after TANF cash assistance ends can qualify for up to 12 months of support. This applies when assistance ends after 24 months or the case closes sooner. Cases closed with a sanction for not following VIEW rules are excluded.

New teachers get supplies and fee help

Virginia provides $500,000 in FY2027 for classroom or school-operation supplies for public school teachers in their first two years. Each grant is worth up to $750 in supplies, not cash. Candidates at Title I schools or schools in the Community Eligibility Provision can apply for a grant covering the initial National Board certification fee. Half is paid at registration and half after successful certification.

Nursing scholarships cover more applicants

Humanitarian parolees can qualify for the Mary Marshall Scholarship Program. Foreign-educated nursing graduates seeking licensure can also receive scholarships covering up to 100% of two required report fees. The law sets no dollar cap for those fee scholarships.

Paid internships for college students

Virginia provides $6.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for grants supporting paid undergraduate internships. Eligible employers can receive up to half of approved costs, capped at $7,500 per internship. The state also funds 75 STEM work-experience opportunities and paid internships for students at participating Virginia HBCUs; applying does not guarantee a placement.

Pay rules for Virginia guard members

Virginia National Guard and Defense Force members called to state active duty outside federal service receive pay based on rank and years of service. The Adjutant General may raise pay each year, but the increase cannot exceed the latest percentage increase in Armed Forces basic pay.

Petersburg school leaders get incentives

Petersburg City Public Schools has $350,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for executive leader incentives. Incentives can include salary supplements, bonuses, housing or commuting help, or professional development. Payment depends on an agreement and meeting operational and student-achievement goals.

Resident tuition for some graduate assistants

A Virginia college may charge resident tuition and fees to a nonresident graduate student who works there as a teaching, research, or graduate assistant. The student’s annual contract rate must be at least $4,000. The college may offer this rate but is not required to.

Some workers’ compensation claims can settle

The state can use up to $20 million to identify and potentially settle workers’ compensation claims that have been open for more than one year but less than 10 years. Finance and Administration officials must approve spending. The state repays the advance from annual premiums over seven years. A qualifying claim may be settled, but payment is not guaranteed.

Teachers get help earning credentials

Teachers at qualifying schools can apply for a grant covering the full National Board maintenance-of-certification fee, including registration. Approved public high school teachers can receive up to $12,000 over a lifetime for dual-enrollment credential tuition, paid to a Virginia college or university. School divisions can also seek reimbursement of eligible industry-credential costs, up to $12,000 per teacher over a lifetime.

Transfer students can get $1,000 grants

Students who qualify for the Virginia Two-Year College Transfer Grant for the first time at one of six named universities can receive $1,000 for an award year. A student can receive support for no more than two years, with no more than one year at each class level. Students must meet advancement requirements before a later award. The state sets aside up to $600,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028.

Transferred state workers keep retirement coverage

A state employee transferred to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority keeps membership in the Virginia Retirement System or another covered retirement plan if already enrolled. The employee remains under the same terms as before the transfer.

More Virginia tax help for workers

Eligible taxpayers who claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit can claim a refundable Virginia credit equal to 20% of it for tax years 2025 through 2029. They cannot claim this credit in a year they claim either of two specified alternative Virginia credits. The state also provides $635,725 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for outreach and tax-preparation help. That funding does not change who qualifies for the federal credit or how much it pays.

Tax deduction for ABLE savings

Virginia taxpayers can deduct qualifying contributions to a Commonwealth Savers Plan ABLE account. The usual limit is $2,000 per account per year, and excess contributions can carry forward. Contributors age 70 or older are not subject to that annual limit, reduced by amounts already deducted. Contributions also deducted on a federal return do not qualify for this state deduction.

Teachers deduct classroom expenses

For Virginia tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, eligible educators can deduct up to $500 for qualifying classroom and professional-development costs. They must work at least 900 hours during the year at an accredited Virginia primary or secondary school. Expenses cannot be reimbursed or claimed as a federal income-tax deduction.

Grants for businesses hiring veterans

Virginia businesses with 300 or fewer employees can get $1,000 for each qualifying veteran hire, up to $10,000 per business each fiscal year. The veteran must have been hired on or after July 1, 2014, within five years after leaving active service, and work full time for at least one year. The program has up to $100,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028; applications are paid in order received.

Grants for rural IT apprenticeships

Virginia provides $1.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for competitive grants to qualifying small rural information technology businesses. The grants help businesses start apprenticeship programs. The law does not set an award amount for each business.

More insured loans for small businesses

The Virginia Small Business Financing Authority can insure additional loans to eligible small businesses. Total insurance is limited by the law’s fund-based cap or $15 million. If guarantee payments exceed 10% of outstanding insured loans, the Authority must stop insuring new loans and notify state officials. Insurance does not guarantee that a business will receive a loan.

More paths to cannabis business licenses

The law creates a route for up to 100 microbusiness licenses, with applications opening by February 1, 2027. Applicants must meet licensing, financial, security, and readiness rules. The Authority must also issue at least 55 additional cannabis business licenses by July 1, 2027. A microbusiness can operate at up to two approved locations within 20 miles, subject to ownership, zoning, and canopy limits.

Cannabis businesses can deduct costs

For Virginia tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, licensed cannabis businesses can deduct ordinary and necessary business costs from state taxable income. The deduction applies to costs connected with a Virginia-licensed cannabis business.

Better health and oversight in prisons

The law funds electronic health records in all Department of Corrections facilities, with special-fund money used before general funds. It provides $426,832 and four positions each year to help review deaths in local jails. The law also funds a review of prison staffing, recruitment training, and $1.1 million in FY2027 for added operating costs tied to specified sentencing laws.

Cannabis profits fund public programs

After allowed expenses and any permitted reserve, marijuana business profits can fund early childhood care, schools, an equity fund, substance use prevention and treatment, and public health. The reserve cannot exceed $2.5 million. Spending remains subject to approval in the state budget.

Fewer marijuana distribution penalties

The law removes marijuana from certain offenses involving drug distribution to minors and from related location-based offenses. Marijuana-specific mandatory minimums are removed; the five-year minimum remains for Schedule I or II drugs. The location rules still cover controlled and imitation controlled substances on listed properties and within the specified 1,000-foot areas.

Lower penalty for large marijuana trafficking

People charged with trafficking 100 kilograms or more of marijuana no longer face this provision’s 20-year-to-life penalty or its 20-year mandatory minimum sentence. The law does not estimate how many people this change affects.

More cleanup and monitoring at landfill

The state provides $10.6 million in FY2027 for environmental work, monitoring, and closure at Shoosmith Landfill with Chesterfield County. If that money is exhausted, the Department of Environmental Quality may transfer up to $3 million from the Virginia Environmental Emergency Response Fund. The Department is not required to spend the funds.

More deputies and jail project aid

The state assigns local jail deputies based on capacity, including one deputy for every 3.0 beds. An overcrowded jail may receive one extra deputy for every five prisoners above capacity; those extra positions are reassigned when overcrowding falls or ends. Qualifying sheriffs’ offices can also receive grade 9 master deputy positions, subject to state funding. The Commonwealth may reimburse up to 25% of approved jail construction, enlargement, or renovation costs; localities must meet state criteria and submit project information by January 1.

More disaster aid for communities

The law continues a $50 million general-fund authorization for disaster mitigation and relief in qualified communities. Unspent funds carry over rather than reverting at the end of each fiscal year. Projects that meet the applicable floodplain standards receive priority. The law does not provide direct household payments.

More federal support for local social services

Virginia sets aside $95.4 million in federal funds each year for allowable local costs beyond available general-fund reimbursement. It also provides $28.1 million each year to reimburse local governments for public-assistance administration. The money supports local agencies; it does not set a direct household payment.

More funding for courts and prosecutors

The law provides about $119 million in each fiscal year for Commonwealth’s attorneys and local office operations. It also provides about $82 million each year for circuit court clerks, including office operations and land records.

More funding for deputy court clerks

The state provides about $5.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for 117 Deputy Clerk IV positions. Localities must use the money to add to, not replace, their own funds for circuit court clerk salaries. The provision addresses added court workload and allows certain unspent funds to carry forward.

More funding for environmental monitoring

Virginia provides $100 million in FY2027 to improve environmental monitoring. The funding supports a comprehensive study and work to address monitoring gaps found by that study. Transfers to the Department of Environmental Quality require approval from the named state officials.

More funding for local corrections

The state provides $28,411,628 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for local corrections and pretrial programs, with no more than 5% used for state administration. It also funds approved jail medical, treatment, and inmate-classification positions at two-thirds of their set salaries, and provides $2,053,904 each year for staffing at Piedmont Regional Jail. Up to $377,010 each year is reserved for unbudgeted medical costs at local facilities caring for state-responsible felons.

More funding for water quality projects

Virginia provides about $43.5 million in FY2027 for stormwater grants. Grants can pay for certified nutrient credits or qualifying projects such as stream, wetland, and buffer restoration. The state also continues $20 million for a Chesapeake Bay watershed pilot, with unspent funds carried forward. Qualifying wastewater projects can use certain grants for additional completion costs, subject to limits, and must be scheduled to finish by January 1, 2030.

More funding for water quality projects

The law deposits about $154 million into the Virginia Water Quality Improvement Fund in FY2027. Of that amount, $7.95 million is assigned to statewide projects, including nonpoint-source work, tree planting, and forestry grants. Another $140.55 million funds Hampton Roads wastewater projects. The law does not set a household payment or customer share of costs.

More funding to repair unsafe dams

The state provides $26.5 million in FY2027 and $1.5 million in FY2028 for small dams with known or suspected problems. The money can pay for repairs and remote monitoring equipment, or be transferred to the district dam repair fund.

More grants for domestic violence services

Local domestic violence programs receive state and federal grants for crisis and other services in both budget years. The grants include $248,750 in state funds and $1,346,792 in family assistance funds each year for crisis services; hotlines, emergency shelter, and transportation come first. Other grants provide $1.1 million in state funds and $2.5 million in federal funds each year. The state also provides $2.65 million each year for evidence-based prevention grants, plus $2.5 million in FY2028 for victim services, prioritizing agencies without a dedicated appropriation in the named 2023 law.

More grants for school safety

Virginia funds school resource officer grants with about $15.9 million in state money and $1.7 million in available federal funds each year. Up to $6.2 million in FY2027 may support emergency-response mapping grants for public colleges and universities, alongside the existing school program. The state also provides $202,300 each year for school incident-response training and a model threat-assessment policy. Mapping grants depend on applications and available cash.

More land for natural areas

The law provides $10.2 million in FY2027 from federal trust funds to buy land for Virginia Natural Area Preserves. It does not provide direct household payments.

More local dispatch and jail support

The state provides $8 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for local dispatch centers. It also provides $2,169,583 each year for jail links to victim notification systems and $9,835,820 each year for behavioral-health case managers and medical treatment jobs in local and regional jails. These funds support local services from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028.

More money for Chesapeake Bay cleanup

The state puts $188.9 million into the Water Quality Improvement Fund in FY2027. The fund gives matching grants to eligible wastewater projects that reduce nutrients flowing into the Chesapeake Bay. The money goes to project sponsors, not directly to households.

More money for clean water projects

The state provides $8 million in FY2027 to meet matching requirements for anticipated federal clean-water loan funding. Richmond receives $50 million in FY2027 for its combined sewer overflow project. King George County receives $3.5 million for repairs to the Dahlgren wastewater plant listed in a June 2025 condition report. These funds support water projects, not direct payments to residents.

More money for jail repairs

Virginia provides $40 million in FY2027 for heating and cooling upgrades at correctional facilities. Nottoway Correctional Center gets priority, and the remaining money goes to other facilities. The state can also reimburse approved local jail projects, up to $5,024 for Roanoke County, $279,827 for Piedmont Regional, $275,400 for Prince William-Manassas, and $954,992 for Western Tidewater. The Department of Corrections must submit its spending plan by October 15, 2026.

More money for local emergency communications

Localities receive an estimated $37 million in FY2027 and $37 million in FY2028 for enhanced emergency communications. The money equals revenue collected under the Virginia Wireless Tax provision. This provision does not change household wireless tax rates or provide direct household payments.

More money for parks and outdoor access

Virginia provides $40 million in FY2027 for deferred maintenance at state parks. The state also provides $5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for wildlife land and property purchases. Separate transfers support the Game Protection Fund, capped at about $13.8 million in the first year and $13.4 million in the second, plus $4 million each year for boating recreation, projects, upkeep, and access.

More money for property cleanup

Virginia can use extra matching funds when needed to take part in the federal Superfund program; no amount is stated. The law also provides $10 million in FY2027 to demolish buildings and clean up the Central Virginia Training Center property.

More money for Virginia court programs

Virginia provides $960,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for qualifying drug courts, and $4.75 million each year for possible court computer upgrades. The Judicial Performance Evaluation Program gets $289,000 each year. The state also funds indigent-defense oversight, mediator appointments at $120 each, and the Clients’ Protection Fund with $1 million each year. The Attorney General can request up to $100,000 per year for specified court-facility cases and legal representation for court personnel.

More people can seek voting rights

A specified felony marijuana conviction no longer blocks a person from petitioning to restore voter-registration eligibility. The person must still complete the sentence at least five years before petitioning, show community or comparable service, and have no other criminal convictions during that period except traffic infractions. Violent felonies and other listed felonies remain disqualifying. The court and Governor must approve restoration.

More state aid for local police

The state provides eligible localities $229.7 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for police and public-safety services. Localities must add this money to their own spending and certify how they use it. The state can withhold funds for specified crime-data or sex-offender registration failures, then release them after correction or compliance in the same fiscal year.

More state help during disasters

The state can use unrestricted treasury funds for disaster aid during a declared emergency or when the Governor authorizes it. Eligible agencies and local areas receive funding under state guidelines. For qualifying programs after a presidential disaster declaration, Virginia must pay at least 10% of program costs. The law does not set total program costs or household payment amounts.

More support for adoptive and kinship families

The law funds Title IV-E adoption subsidies with state and other funds totaling about $150 million in the first year and $153 million in the second. It also provides $6.2 million each year for relative caregivers. Five state positions receive funding to negotiate adoption assistance agreements. The law does not set an adoption subsidy amount for each family or change family eligibility.

More support for child welfare services

Virginia funds child abuse prevention, foster-parent respite, case management, hotline staffing, and evidence-based programs. The law also funds a centralized child-protection intake system, including $2.45 million for its FY2028 startup. These funds support services and systems, not direct household payments.

More support for crime and abuse victims

Virginia funds crime victim-witness programs, domestic-violence services, and sexual-assault crisis centers. Domestic-violence grants receive $3 million a year from dedicated funds and $1.4 million a year from the general fund in FY2027 and FY2028; at least $500,000 each year supports specified sexual-assault providers and hospitals. Separate grants provide $13.1 million each year for local sexual-assault and domestic-violence programs. The state also sets aside 33% of any extra federal violence-against-women funds for competitive grants.

More support for farms and conservation

Soil and water conservation districts receive funding for operations and technical assistance, including $12.8 million in each budget year for core expenses and $4.55 million each year for technical help. The state also provides an estimated $10 million each year for conservation, including $8.7 million for farm cost-share assistance. That assistance is split 70% for eligible land in or partly in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and 30% for land outside it. Other funding supports natural-resource projects and land purchases or easements that provide public access.

More support for prison reentry

The law provides $500,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for seminars on reentry challenges and family ties. It also funds 105 positions and $8.1 million each year to carry out existing earned-sentence-credit rules. The law supports reentry programs for female offenders, a day reporting center pilot, and a jail-based rehabilitation pilot for nonviolent state offenders. The excerpt does not state funding amounts for those pilots.

More treatment options in local courts

Local governments can establish drug treatment courts using available state, federal, or local resources. Programs started after July 1, 2012, must assess drug addiction or dependence and cannot limit participation to first-time offenders or exclude probation violators. A court can also release an eligible person to supervised probation after at least 24 months of successful substance abuse treatment. The person must meet sentencing and criminal-history rules, and the court must approve release.

New state park land in Virginia

Virginia can accept up to 1,250 donated acres in Loudoun County for Oak Hill State Park. A plan must confirm $47 million in nongeneral funds, including at least $12 million in private support, and receive required written approvals and reviews. Reports are due September 30 and December 15, 2026. The law also provides $2 million in FY2027 for state park land, including Powell Mountain parcels that connect to Natural Tunnel State Park’s interpretive center.

Payments to localities for inmate days

From July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, localities receive $5 per day for local-responsible inmates, or $19 for qualifying jail-farm inmates. They receive $15 per day for state-responsible inmates. Approved alternative programs qualify only for people who otherwise would be jailed, not people who otherwise would receive community service or probation.

Stronger child welfare oversight and systems

The state provides $7.1 million in general funds and $7.1 million in other funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to develop a child welfare information system. Unspent money carries forward, and the Department of Social Services must report progress twice a year. The Department must also fill licensing-office vacancies within 120 days, staff required inspections, and make extra visits to facilities with compliance problems.

Witnesses can get short-term safety help

Virginia provides $1.2 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for safety help for witnesses and their families who may be in danger because they helped with a serious-crime investigation or prosecution. The help can cover approved safety costs for up to 90 days. Up to $400,000 a year can pay state administration costs, and unspent money carries forward.

More inspections for food and hemp products

Virginia provides $700,000 and seven staff positions each year to investigate hemp product violations at regulated food establishments. It also provides about $2.2 million and 15 positions each year to register and inspect facilities selling certain hemp products. Meat and poultry inspections receive $416,130 in state funds and the same amount in federal funds each year, plus eight positions.

Safer labels and limits for THC products

Covered THC products meant to be eaten or inhaled must include a certificate showing THC concentration. Edible products are limited to 10 milligrams per serving and 100 milligrams per package. Topical hemp products must say they are not meant for human consumption. Products must also meet state processing, inspection, and packaging rules.

Safer testing and labels for cannabis

Before selling covered marijuana products, licensees generally must have samples tested for required contaminants and correct labels. Products must pass required tests, and sellers must keep testing records. Labels must show product details and warnings, and packaging must be child-resistant, tamper-evident, resealable, and opaque. Processors must also test each batch before dispensing and set stability-testing schedules for products dated beyond 12 months.

Stronger protections against cannabis sales

People cannot sell, give, or distribute marijuana to someone they know or should know is under 21 or intoxicated. Violations can bring criminal penalties, and businesses can face escalating civil penalties or lose their licenses. The law also makes certain unlawful marijuana activity at a property or in a fortified structure a crime, and bans delivery to people in specified correctional facilities.

Grants improve local drinking water systems

Virginia provides $50 million in FY2027 for one-time grants to improve local drinking-water systems. Localities must cover at least 25% of project costs, and grants cannot pay for a whole project. At least $20 million must go to Richmond's water treatment plant. Richmond and the state health department must sign an agreement by August 31, 2026.

More state funding for drinking water

Virginia provides about $6.5 million in FY2027 as a match for one federal drinking-water award program. It also provides about $3.6 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for another federal award program. The money supports drinking-water projects through the state revolving fund.

Road upkeep comes before new projects

Virginia must put safety-related upkeep of existing transportation assets first in transportation budgets and spending. Highway funds must pay for maintenance and operations before new highway development, purchases, or construction.

Funding for emergency care coordination

Virginia provides $1,319,515 in state funds and $3,798,129 in federal funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for emergency department care coordination, subject to what federal officials allow. State health agencies must bring health-care participants together to identify ways to improve system use and coordinate care. The money supports program operations, not direct payments to patients.

Higher Medicaid care provider rates

Virginia raises Medicaid rates for personal care, respite, and companion services by 6.4% starting May 1, 2021, and 12.5% starting January 1, 2022. Starting July 1, 2021, anesthesiologist rates rise to 70% of 2019 Medicare rates. Skilled and private-duty nursing rates rise to 80% of the department’s benchmark, subject to available funding. Nursing-home and specialized-care rates rise by $20 per patient per day through June 30, 2021, then $15 starting July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2027.

Higher rates for Medicaid care

The law raises or authorizes higher Medicaid and CHIP payments to providers for many services. Changes include 7.5% higher personal care, respite, and companion rates; dental increases of 30% beginning July 1, 2022, and 3% beginning July 1, 2024; primary care rates set at 80% of the FY2021 Medicare equivalent, excluding emergency departments; and 15% higher obstetrics and gynecology rates. Other changes include a 30% increase for children’s vision care, peer recovery rates rising from $6.50 to $13.00 per 15 minutes individually and $2.70 to $5.40 in groups, and 12.5% increases for listed community services. Early Intervention rates for Medicaid children under three rise 12.5% starting January 1, 2024, excluding case management; specified community behavioral health rates rise 10% from that date. The law also sets special nursing-facility capital payments, allows time-and-a-half for qualifying attendant overtime—up to eight hours starting January 1, 2021, and 16 hours starting July 1, 2021—and adds nursing-facility payments through June 30, 2027. Disability waiver rates use updated estimates; existing regional and service-type rate differences remain.

More behavioral health support for youth

Community Services Boards can use program funds to buy, develop, or lease property needed for residential services. Health systems, hospitals, and community providers can help develop 23-hour crisis centers. The state provides $777,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for youth peer support; this does not set individual payments or guarantee a new center.

More community and youth mental health support

The state provides $19.8 million in FY2027 and $24 million in FY2028 for community mental health response, alert systems, and care teams. It also provides $193,000 in FY2027 for Girl Scout youth wellness programs. Four named councils each receive $43,250 for patch programs and mental health summits.

More community care instead of state hospitals

Virginia provides $27.7 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for community services for adults ready to leave state facilities or who may avoid admission. Another $7.5 million each year supports psychiatric care at private facilities instead of state hospitals. The state also provides $13.5 million each year for community behavioral health projects, with a $2.5 million yearly limit per project. That funding includes up to $1.5 million for private-hospital discharge support, $5 million for forensic-patient alternatives, and $6 million for people on the Extraordinary Barriers List. Virginia also provides $8 million each year for supervised residential care for 100 people.

More community services for people with disabilities

Virginia provides $705,000 each year for community services for people leaving state training centers who are not eligible for Medicaid. It also funds developmental disability health networks, independent living centers, and personal assistance services. These programs support services for people with disabilities but do not set individual household benefit amounts.

More crisis help for people with disabilities

Virginia provides $10.5 million each year for crisis centers as an alternative to incarceration for people with serious mental illness, including some with acquired brain injury. It also provides $10.5 million each year for regional crisis help for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities and co-occurring behavioral or mental-health disorders. Another $3.7 million each year supports jail discharge planning for people with serious mental illness, including programs in at least five jails.

More family and child support services

Virginia funds whole-family grants, neighborhood outreach, voluntary home visiting, and child nutrition programs. Whole-family grant recipients must match at least 20% of their grant, including with in-kind services. Home visiting programs must report each year by July 1 and assess statewide needs at least every three years.

More funding for behavioral health services

The law funds behavioral health services and support systems in FY2027 and FY2028. It provides about $29 million in state funds and $29 million in federal funds each year for state behavioral health institutions. Other funding supports 988 call centers ($2.17 million yearly, with up to $75,000 available for the Warmline), peer wellness stays ($3.30 million yearly), REVIVE! kits ($300,000 yearly), acute psychiatric bed reporting ($146,871 yearly), and clinical training partnerships ($711,989 yearly). The state also provides $759,000 yearly to help mental health centers obtain Medicare Part D drug reimbursement; this does not change patients’ coverage or costs.

More funding for crisis care

The state provides $42.4 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for crisis centers, stabilization units, and related improvements. This includes $2.25 million each year for the Prince William County Youth Crisis Receiving Center. Another $9 million each year supports centers that have expanded, or plan to expand, 23-hour crisis services. The law also funds treatment and discharge planning at two state hospitals and rides to placements after discharge.

More funding for medical research

UVA receives $22.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for cancer research, including $2.5 million each year for pediatric cancer research. The Focused Ultrasound Center receives about $4.1 million each year for its programs and research, including coordinated work with Virginia Tech. These grants support research and center operations; they do not guarantee treatment or payments to patients. UVA must report each year on its use of cancer-research funds.

More help during psychiatric emergencies

Virginia provides about $18.7 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for alternative transport and custody during psychiatric emergencies. It also provides up to about $10.1 million each year for emergency department custody staff, prioritizing Regions Three and One; Region Five may receive coverage if funds remain. The funding supports people under covered emergency or detention orders who are waiting for evaluation or transport.

More help enrolling in Medicaid and FAMIS

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Virginia Health Care Foundation receives an extra $250,000 in state funds and $250,000 in other funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The money expands Medicaid and FAMIS outreach and enrollment. CHIP administrative funds and federal matching funds may also support the work where allowed. Virginia also adds $200,000 in the first year to extend a prior-authorization pilot through June 30, 2027; the department must issue its contract by August 1, 2026, and report by November 1, 2026.

More help for addiction and suicide prevention

Virginia funds an Addiction Treatment Navigator to help people find treatment, local providers, insurance details, and provider quality information. The state also provides $500,000 in each of the budget’s first two years for suicide prevention education, training, and provider support. Opioid programs receive about $11.9 million in FY2027 and $9.2 million in FY2028 for items such as reversal medicines, test kits, school naloxone, and jail-based treatment and transition services in FY2027. These funds support programs, not set payments to individuals.

More help for children after abuse allegations

Child advocacy centers receive about $2.7 million each year from the state and about $6.2 million each year from the TANF block grant in FY2027 and FY2028. They provide child-friendly services after abuse allegations, including interviews, advocacy, medical evaluations, and mental health services. Four percent goes to the statewide organization; the rest is divided using center accreditation and community factors.

More home visits for families

Virginia provides $800,000 in FY2027 and $1.4 million in FY2028 to help secure additional federal home-visiting awards. The money supports providers serving families with young children. The state also provides $2.5 million in FY2027 for one-year grants to community providers starting perinatal health hubs. Applicants need regional presence, local partnerships, and a plan to continue the work. Unspent hub funds at June 30, 2027, carry forward.

More mental health care for youth

Virginia provides $1.6 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for mental health and substance-use treatment for juveniles on probation or parole. Up to $325,315 each year can support private inpatient care for qualifying youth committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice. The state also funds residential care for some youth with serious mental illness or substance-use disorders, transition services for children leaving or avoiding state facilities, and integrated mental health services for children. Funding includes $14.8 million each year for the children’s mental health access program and $7.6 million each year for youth discharge and diversion services.

More mental-health care for children

Virginia provides $6.1 million each year for some children and teens with serious emotional or behavioral needs, with priority for those at risk of removal, placement, or juvenile-justice commitment. Children already required to receive services under the Children’s Services Act cannot use this funding. The state also provides $13.8 million each year for child psychiatry and crisis care, $2.8 million each year for outpatient care, and $2.75 million each year for crisis services for children with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

More oversight and rewards for nursing homes

Virginia provides funding for eight inspectors to investigate nursing home complaints and reduce the complaint backlog. Qualifying nursing facilities can also receive extra payments for quality care, funded at $20 million in state funds and about $20.8 million in other funds in each of the first two years. Facilities must meet annual quality rules; some facilities with serious quality or safety issues cannot receive rewards for a department-set period.

More school breakfast and vision support

Virginia provides $791,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to reimburse schools for vision screenings, with a state share of $7 per eligible student; payments can be prorated. School breakfast incentives receive $19.6 million in FY2027 and $20.4 million in FY2028, paying $0.50 per meal above the state baseline, subject to budget limits. After-the-Bell breakfast receives $1.074 million each year, with rates of $0.05 per elementary meal and $0.10 per middle or high school meal. These schools must meet program rules, including a student free- or reduced-price lunch rate above 45% for After-the-Bell funding.

More tools to address opioid harm

Virginia provides $2.6 million in FY2027 and $800,000 in FY2028 to expand its substance use and opioid data platform. The funding supports additional data and analysis for authorized state agencies and local and community service organizations. The law also lists $1,340,053 for FY2027 operations and “$1,407,55” for FY2028; the second figure is incomplete in the source.

More help for renters facing eviction

Virginia provides $14.95 million in FY2027 and $3.45 million in FY2028 for eviction-prevention and diversion grants. Local programs connect residents facing eviction with social services and legal aid, including in underserved areas. Applications with an appropriate local match receive priority, and unused funds carry forward. The law does not guarantee a household payment.

More housing for people leaving hospitals

The state provides $2.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to develop or buy housing for eligible people leaving state hospitals. Another $250,000 each year supports a team that helps housing providers serve people discharged from state facilities or at risk of institutionalization.

More local help for housing and eviction

Virginia provides $5 million in the first year to Prince William County for affordable housing. FACETS receives $350,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for homeless services in Northern Virginia. The Lighthouse Community Center receives $1 million each year for housing help and other services in Planning District 11. Good Shepherd receives $200,000 each year for housing and family services. Fairfax County gets $200,000 in the first year for emergency help for people facing eviction; individual award amounts are not set.

More services for people facing homelessness

Virginia funds housing and services for people facing homelessness in FY2027 and FY2028. Each year, the law provides about $3.5 million from the general fund, $100,000 in special revenue, and $3.4 million in federal funds. It also provides $4.05 million each year for homelessness prevention. Rapid-rehousing grants total $14.1 million in FY2027 and $1.1 million in FY2028, including $200,000 each year for veterans who cannot get federal benefits. Charlottesville receives $7 million in FY2027 for transitional housing and life-skills training.

More statewide housing and homeless grants

Virginia puts $127.5 million into the Housing Trust Fund in FY2027 and $87.5 million in FY2028. It also provides $15.8 million each year for affordable housing and indoor plumbing programs. Eligible organizations receive grants, but the law does not set a payment for each household.

Funding for statewide student testing

Virginia provides about $47.3 million in FY2027 and $44.9 million in FY2028 for statewide student testing and related work. Existing test contracts may continue through December 31, 2027. Unspent money carries forward only when it is needed to meet those contract obligations.

More college help for students

The state gives the Great Aspirations Scholarship Program $500,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to help students and families in need find financial aid, scholarships, and counseling. Project Discovery receives $987,500 in each year for services in listed communities and a fiscal officer. Participating agencies must report student outcomes each year, and Project Discovery must submit its evaluation by October 1.

More funding for history and humanities

The state provides about $2.5 million in general funds and $1.7 million in other funds each year for public humanities and school resources. It also provides $500,000 each year for Charlottesville school programs at two heritage centers. Fairfax County receives $250,000 each year to help create an African American research fellowship. These funds support public and educational programs, not direct household payments.

More funding to improve Virginia schools

The law funds services for schools below accreditation standards and support for low-performing schools. It also provides money for a virtual high school program serving 200 students in grades 9 through 12, virtual math outreach, and a statewide school learning system. Other funding supports educator-misconduct research access, a clearer school performance report, and growth measures for state math and reading tests.

More grants for schools and training

The budget provides $73.8 million in FY2027 and $57.4 million in FY2028 for listed education assistance programs. It also adds $2 million each year for career-training equipment and competitive grants. The training grants support high-demand fields, with priority for challenged schools and state STEM and health science academies. The budget schedule does not list each assistance program’s allocation or eligibility rules.

More job training for TANF recipients

Virginia provides $9 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for competitive job-training grants serving TANF recipients seeking work and higher wages. This includes $2.45 million a year for grants through Employment Services Organizations and at least $300,000 a year for workforce services in Richmond. Most grants require a local match of at least 25%; the match is 10% in localities with high fiscal stress.

More school construction loan help

School boards and localities can apply for Literary Fund loans of up to $25 million per project for eligible school construction or related work. A project that reduces the number of existing schools by at least one can receive up to $5 million more. The program also offers interest-rate subsidies for eligible projects.

More services through community schools

The state provides $7.5 million in FY2027 and $2.5 million in FY2028 for community school grants. The grants support student services, expanded learning, and family and community involvement. Unspent FY2027 funds carry forward for the same purpose in FY2028.

More staff for labor law enforcement

Virginia provides $843,442 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for eight Labor and Employment Law Division staff members. The state also provides $100,000 each year for a child labor compliance officer. Another $6.5 million in FY2027 and $3.635 million in FY2028 supports additional enforcement staff and a case system; unspent funds carry forward for those uses.

More support for student internships

The state provides about $7.3 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for the Internships Virginia initiative. Grants support paid or credit-bearing internships and other work-based learning. Colleges must plan how to expand participation, address barriers, and support students less likely to access internships.

More youth job and development programs

Virginia provides $5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for youth development and employment programs. Each year, $3 million supports Big H.O.M.I.E.S. and $2 million supports the Cleaning Up the Streets Youth Employment Program. The law does not set individual payment amounts.

School safety officer grants change

Virginia changes grants for public schools with school resource or security officers. Localities match grant funds based on their ability to pay. The state prioritizes places without these officers and may offer one-time fifth-year grants from remaining funds, prioritizing places with lower ability to pay.

State help for Governor’s Schools

The state helps pay added costs for regular Governor’s Schools based on each locality’s ability to pay. For summer residential Governor’s Schools and Foreign Language Academies, the state share is at least 50% or the locality’s calculated share, whichever is greater. Participating divisions must certify that public-school students are not charged tuition; for summer programs, this applies to students enrolled in public school.

More grants and support for ports

The state funds port and freight grants, trade services, lease payments, and navigation stations. Funding includes $1 million per year for port-volume grants, $500,000 per year for barge and rail grants, and $2 million per year for port business grants. The Port Authority receives $17.3 million per year for economic development and can use $10 million per year for terminal lease payments. Local port aid and southern Chesapeake Bay navigation stations also receive funding.

State agencies get credit lines

The State Comptroller provides credit lines to state agencies and funds to support cash flow. Limits include $165 million for VITA, $80 million for the Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority, $75 million for Health Benefits Services, and $56 million for the Lottery. Agencies need agreements covering interest and how they draw funds; the Secretary of Finance can raise the Lottery limit, and the Lottery repays its line as cash becomes available.

State reserve cushions federal funding cuts

Virginia puts $225 million in FY2027 into a special reserve to address reductions in federal funding. Agencies must submit requests to the Department of Planning and Budget by August 1 of each fiscal year. The Secretary of Finance may approve funding after receiving input from the relevant legislative committees.

Virginia funds university medical research

Virginia provides $22.5 million in general funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for cancer research. It also funds bioengineering, biosciences, biomedical engineering, and regenerative medicine research at the University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University. The universities must report on the use of specified state cancer-research funds; these appropriations do not change treatment eligibility.

Broadband funds target unserved Virginia areas

Virginia must use its federal broadband funds first to serve all unserved and underserved locations, then to cover community institutions. Remaining funds can support listed projects such as broadband resilience, mobile service where 4G or LTE is unavailable, and internet infrastructure in multi-unit buildings. The law does not set a grant amount for individual households.

More money for state facility upkeep

The state budget must provide at least $200 million each year for maintenance projects at state agencies and institutions. The money supports public facilities, not direct household payments.

Port upgrades support goods movement

Virginia provides $60.6 million in FY2027 and $69.2 million in FY2028 to expand the port’s empty yard. It also provides $37.5 million in FY2027 and $50 million in FY2028 for cargo-handling facilities. The investments support port operations and goods movement, not direct household payments.

Funding for clean energy projects

Virginia provides $5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to fund the Clean Energy Bank; up to $923,000 each year can cover administration. The state can also distribute federal energy funds as grants or loans and charge recipients for program costs. Other funding supports local solar assistance, offshore wind, solar and efficiency work, and interconnection grants, including $2 million for grants in FY2027.

More help for Virginia manufacturers

Virginia provides $666,162 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for manufacturing extension services through Genedge Alliance. It also provides $1,086,350 each year as a match for a federal grant supporting a manufacturer assistance program across Virginia. The funding supports manufacturers, not direct household payments.

Funding for children’s health coverage

Virginia transfers up to $14,065,627 each year to the Family Access to Medical Insurance Security Plan Trust Fund. The state transfers 90% of each year’s estimated amount on July 15. This funding supports the program but does not change who qualifies or benefit amounts.

Health insurance premium reduction target

The State Corporation Commission must set payment rules for the Commonwealth Health Reinsurance Program to pursue a 15% premium reduction target. This is a program goal, not a guarantee that any household’s premium will fall by 15%.

Higher Medicaid payments for children’s hospitals

Virginia raises Medicaid payments to qualifying children’s hospitals and physicians. One physician payment rule applies to a freestanding children’s hospital serving Planning District 8 that had more than 50% Medicaid inpatient use in 2014. Other payment increases apply to qualifying hospitals with more than 50% Medicaid use in 2009. Payments remain subject to federal limits, available funds, and the hospital’s Medicaid costs.

Higher Medicaid payments for hospitals

After federal approval, Virginia can assess covered hospitals quarterly. The money supports certain inpatient and outpatient payment increases and related costs. Hospitals that pay late owe a 5% penalty.

Higher Medicaid rates for mental health care

Virginia increases Medicaid rates for several mental health and addiction services. Beginning January 1, 2024, partial hospitalization rates rise from $250.62 to $500 per day, and intensive outpatient rates rise from $159.20 to $250 per day. Beginning July 1, 2025, rates for four addiction treatment services rise 6.5%. Psychiatric service rates rose 14.7% beginning July 1, 2021, reaching 110% of Medicare rates.

Higher payments for Medicaid equipment

Beginning July 1, 2024, Medicaid pays providers 100% of the Medicare rural rate for specified feeding and nutrition equipment. If no rural rate exists, the payment uses 100% of the Medicare non-rural rate. Since July 1, 2021, Medicaid managed-care plans have also had to pay equipment and supply vendors at least 90% of the state Medicaid fee schedule for the same item or service.

Higher payments for nursing and care support

Beginning July 1, 2026, Medicaid provider rates rise 3.8% for skilled nursing registered nurses, 4.5% for skilled nursing licensed practical nurses, and 5% for private duty nursing. Beginning July 1, 2024, Virginia also sets higher rates for consumer-directed service visits. The listed visit rates range from $112.67 to $360.54 in Northern Virginia and from $80.91 to $323.64 elsewhere. These are provider payments, not direct household payments.

Higher rates for home and disability care

Virginia raises Medicaid provider rates for home care, respite, companion, and disability waiver services. Some covered rates rise 2% in July 2024 and another 2% in July 2025; listed disability services also receive increases of 3% in July 2024 and another 3% in July 2025. Other increases include 5% for personal care, respite, and companion services beginning January 1, 2024, and later increases of 4% in January 2027 and 3.9% in January 2028. Listed disability waiver rates rise another 2% in July 2026. These are provider payments, not direct increases to household benefits.

More funding for medical residency slots

Virginia pays sponsoring institutions $145,000 per qualifying residency slot each year, minus eligible Medicare payments. Programs above the federal slot cap or payment limit receive $72,500 from the general fund each year, minus eligible Medicare payments. Payments can last up to four years per resident and depend on available funds. Listed cohorts include 3 slots in July 2021, 18 in July 2022, 38 in July 2024, 55 in July 2025, and 21 in July 2026.

More money for health reinsurance

Virginia transfers $20 million from the general fund to the Commonwealth Health Reinsurance Program Special Fund in each year of the two-year budget. The funding supports the program, but the law does not promise a specific payment or premium reduction for any household.

More state repayment for foster care costs

The state must fully repay local social service boards for costs that qualify under federal Title IV-E foster care rules. Local boards still pay their usual share for costs subject to a local match, including local staff costs. The law does not set a total funding amount or a payment to families.

More support for SNAP delivery

Virginia funds the system that delivers SNAP benefits. The state also makes up to $135 million available for its share of SNAP benefit costs, but only if the federal fiscal year 2026 error rate creates a cost share. The state can allot only the amount needed, and unused funds revert by June 30, 2028. These provisions do not change household eligibility or benefit amounts.

State funds school retiree health credits

The state pays 55% of employer costs for health-care credits tied to funded Standards of Quality instructional and support jobs. Payments are divided using each locality’s ability-to-pay index. The funding supports covered retiree health-care credits; it does not state an individual retiree’s payment amount.

Local aid related to mobile home taxes

Virginia provides $8 million to localities in FY2027 and another $8 million in FY2028 for help related to mobile home taxes. The law does not say how the money is distributed or whether it lowers an individual owner’s tax bill.

Newport News gets a housing infrastructure loan

Virginia approves an interest-free loan of up to $40 million to Newport News for Navy-related housing infrastructure. The loan lasts 20 years. The Navy must commit project resources, and the City must match the amount used with cash or infrastructure work, up to $40 million. The City draws funds as it spends. After the project is complete, a legislator may seek cancellation of any remaining balance through a budget amendment.

More career training at community colleges

The law provides $20 million in general funds in FY2027 to expand career and technical training at Virginia community colleges. The funding is expected to serve 900 more students in listed health-related programs and add capacity for 1,000 students in other workforce programs. It does not set a direct payment for students.

More community college job training

The law provides grants for short-term credentials and noncredit job training at eligible colleges. The credential program receives $33.2 million in FY2027 and $40 million in FY2028 from the general fund, plus $13.6 million from other funds in FY2027. Other funds support training coordinators and programs in health care, advanced manufacturing, and high school career credentials. The grants support institutions and programs; individual award amounts are not set.

More degrees in high-demand fields

Virginia funds degree growth at the University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University with about $2.7 million and $4.3 million each year, respectively. Their annual goals include more degrees in data science, engineering, health care, and education. The state also provides about $28.9 million each year for technology degrees and $12 million in FY2027 for qualified institutions’ workforce and degree efforts. One statewide goal is at least 25,000 more eligible degrees than in 2018 by FY2039; schools must meet written goals to receive allocations.

More funding for medical education

Virginia funds medical education and health training programs, including $30 million each year for Old Dominion University medical school operations and $1.25 million each year for accreditation. Other yearly grants support family medicine training and a regional health education center. The law also provides $1.7 million in FY2027 to plan a possible Mary Washington medical college, and requires family-practice clinical experiences in Southwest Virginia. Planning funds do not guarantee that college enrollment starts by fall 2029.

More job training and credentials

Virginia provides $34.5 million each year for the Get Skilled training program and $5 million yearly for community college workforce equipment. Hampton Roads skilled-trades training gets $2 million yearly, while workforce services for select expanding companies get $9 million yearly. The state also provides $1.3 million yearly for technology training and certifications, $500,000 for Opportunity Scholars in FY2027, and $900,000 yearly for adult diplomas and work credentials. The law does not set individual award amounts or state who qualifies for every program.

More money for unemployment job seekers

The law provides up to $600,000 from specified funds to maintain local unemployment office services. It also allows up to $2.2 million from available funds for unemployment system technology. Any remaining balance from an older $51.1 million grant can support technology upgrades and staff costs. These provisions fund agency operations and do not change individual eligibility or benefit amounts.

More staff for federal workforce programs

The law provides about $53.9 million and 38 positions in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to administer federal workforce development programs. This funding supports program operations; it does not set an individual payment or change eligibility.

More support for university degrees and research

The law funds degree growth and research at Old Dominion University and the Virginia Military Institute. Old Dominion is expected to add specified annual awards in data science, engineering, health care, and education compared with the 2016–17 base year. VMI’s yearly targets are five more data science awards and five more science and engineering awards. Other grants support Old Dominion research and a fellowship partnership with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

More training for health care workers

The law funds behavioral health, nursing, and other health care workforce programs. It provides $7.5 million each year for community behavioral health workforce efforts and $4 million each year for nursing training and clinical placements. Other funding supports nursing scholarships and loan repayment, dementia training, and health workforce programs. Some grants require training plans or jobs paid at the worker’s certification level.

More upkeep for college buildings

The law provides $10 million in FY2027 for maintenance at Christopher Newport University and $35.25 million for George Mason University. It also provides $5.5 million for Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation maintenance. The Department of General Services manages and coordinates the Virginia Hall renovation with Virginia State University; no new funding amount is stated for that assignment.

New buildings and repairs at colleges

Virginia funds several college projects in FY2027. The largest are a $94 million Virginia Tech business building and a $38.26 million James Madison University parking deck. The state also provides $28.84 million for a James Madison student center, $14.17 million for its dining hall, $20.4 million for community college mechanical repairs, and $12.5 million for community college capital projects. These appropriations do not set changes to meal, parking, or student fees.

Cannabis license fees fund business loans

From May 1, 2027, through May 1, 2028, the Authority must put 75% of marijuana establishment annual license fees into the Cannabis Equity Business Loan Fund. Each deposit is due within 60 days after the fees arrive. The law does not state the total fees collected or individual loan amounts.

More farm conservation grants and help

Virginia directs separate FY2027 funding streams to farm conservation grants and district technical help. The streams provide about $145.7 million from a water-quality deposit, $83.9 million from a reserve, and $58 million from fund interest. Grants support land in or outside the Chesapeake Bay watershed; distribution follows Soil and Water Conservation Board policies.

More grants for farms and beekeepers

Virginia adds $600,000 each year to a fund that helps eligible dairy producers pay margin coverage premiums. It also provides $1.5 million each year for agriculture and forestry grants or loans, including $250,000 for blue catfish projects. The Beehive Grant Fund gets $200,000 each year; applications need not be accepted when funds are unavailable or fully allocated.

More grants for manufacturers

Virginia funds manufacturing grants for semiconductors, battery separators, precision plastics, drug ingredients and substances, power transformers, and solid rocket motors. These funds total about $11.6 million in FY2027 and $31.4 million in FY2028. Eligible projects receive the grants; the money does not go directly to households.

More money for business-ready sites

Virginia provides $30 million in FY2027 and $20 million in FY2028 for business-ready development sites. Grant recipients generally must provide matching funds. The state can reimburse localities without a match for certain rezoning fees. A roadway and related utility lines do not by themselves make a site noncontiguous; in localities with 35 square miles of land or less, a qualifying site can have at least 25 contiguous acres.

More support for tobacco-growing communities

Virginia provides an estimated $30 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the statutory program serving tobacco producers and tobacco-growing communities. Spending is limited to securitized proceeds and earnings, up to the amount transferred from the endowment to the Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Fund. The law does not set individual payments or eligibility details.

Support for minority business centers

Virginia sets aside $12.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for minority small-business centers and related community projects. Virginia State University works with other historically Black colleges and universities and participating localities. The projects also cover broadband access, workforce credentials, health, and school partnerships; the money is not a direct household payment.

Businesses deduct 2024 interest costs

For Virginia tax years beginning in 2024 and before January 1, 2025, eligible taxpayers can deduct 50% of business interest disallowed under federal tax rules. The deduction applies only to that tax-year period.

Coalfield tax credits get partial refunds

Virginia refunds authorized Coalfield Employment Enhancement Tax Credits. Previously paid state taxes are refunded at face value, up to the credit amount. Any remaining credit is refunded at 90% for tax years starting before January 1, 2002, or 85% for later years; the balance goes to the Coalfields Economic Development Authority.

Higher cap for historic tax credits

Starting with tax years in 2025, a taxpayer can claim up to $7.5 million of Virginia’s Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit in one year. The limit includes credit carried over from earlier years.

Oil and gas firms keep tax exemption

Through July 1, 2028, qualifying oil and gas businesses do not pay Virginia sales tax on listed materials, energy, equipment, and supplies used directly for drilling, extraction, processing, or well-area cleanup.

Tax revenue shared with local governments

The law distributes tax revenue to Virginia local governments in FY2027 and FY2028. Annual amounts include $50 million from vehicle rental taxes, an estimated $350 million from communications taxes, and an estimated $28 million from Historic Triangle sales taxes. It also provides $6.53 million from rolling stock taxes, $2 million from public facility sales taxes, $1.25 million in Tennessee Valley Authority payments, and $600,000 from tourism project taxes each year. These are payments to local governments, not direct household payments or changes to household tax rates.

Higher charges on delinquent court debts

People who owe delinquent court fines, costs, forfeitures, penalties, or restitution face an added charge of up to 17% to help cover collection costs. If 17% exceeds the contracted collection agent’s fee, the charge is limited to that fee.

New penalties for underage cannabis buyers

An underage person who knowingly uses fake or deceptive identification to try to buy marijuana commits a Class 3 misdemeanor. A conviction requires losing driving privileges for 30 days to one year. A child age 13 or older may also lose driving privileges after a qualifying cannabis offense and court finding. Felony offenses can mean at least one year without driving privileges, or until age 17 or 18, whichever is longer; some other offenses bring a six-month denial.

Penalties for public marijuana use

Using marijuana or offering it to someone in public is prohibited. A first offense carries a civil penalty of up to $250. A second offense carries a $250 penalty and may require treatment or education if a program is available and the court finds it best suits the person. A third or later offense is a Class 4 misdemeanor.

Child care copays and job-search rules

Families receiving child care subsidies pay $5 per month when income is below 100% of the federal poverty level. Other families may pay up to 5% of yearly household income. Job-search support is limited to 90 days, with up to one extension for extraordinary circumstances. Mixed-Delivery families follow the same copayment and work rules. Virginia must also revise attendance rules, but the law does not state the new requirements.

Limits on state-funded abortion care

State agencies and providers generally cannot use money appropriated by the General Assembly to pay for abortion services. They can use those funds when federal or state law requires the services. People relying on these public funds may have less access to abortion care.

Tighter Medicaid coverage and care limits

Virginia must end coverage for people in the Affordable Care Act’s newly eligible Medicaid group if a specified federal funding change reduces federal aid. The state also cannot add slots to two named disability waivers, except for listed programs and groups. It seeks federal approval for a 56-hour limit on personal care in two disability waivers; the law does not say what time period that limit covers. The state also seeks approval to end Medicaid community stabilization services on July 1, 2026.

Four-year limit on survivor education aid

An eligible surviving spouse or child can receive no more than four years, or the equivalent, of education benefits under the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program and similar state appropriations. The law does not set a dollar limit.

Higher tuition for nonresident students

Virginia public colleges must set nonresident tuition and required fees to cover at least 100% of average education costs. The state higher education council can approve a gradual change if immediate increases could discourage nonresident enrollment. For nonresident students in the Southern Regional Electronic Campus, tuition and fees must exceed direct and indirect instruction costs. The law does not state each student’s price increase.

New background checks for cannabis workers

Owners of pharmaceutical processor permit applicants must be fingerprinted for state and federal criminal-history checks, and applicants pay the cost. Covered processors must keep background-check records for employees and delivery agents. A person with a felony conviction in Virginia or elsewhere within the past five years cannot work for or act as an agent of a covered cannabis facility.

Some students must repay unused grant aid

Students who receive a covered state grant and withdraw during a semester must return the unearned part. The school calculates the amount using the percentage applied for federal student aid returns. The law does not state a dollar amount.

Work-hour limits for some state employees

Employees who cannot join a covered state health plan are limited to an average of 29 work hours per week over 12 months. The rule includes adjunct faculty and required work beyond teaching. Employees at state teaching hospitals with their own health plan are exempt, but those hospitals remain responsible for related federal-law costs and penalties.

Higher taxes on tobacco products

Virginia doubled its tobacco products tax rates starting July 1, 2020. It also charges 2.25 cents in tax for each cigarette intended to be heated. That per-stick tax applies to qualifying cigarettes sold, stored, or received starting July 1, 2024. The law does not state the old tobacco tax rates, so the added tax on those products cannot be calculated here.

Stricter penalties for marijuana licensees

The Board can suspend or revoke licenses for listed violations, including unsafe conditions, certain criminal activity, discrimination against Armed Forces members, or local taxes at least 90 days overdue. It must suspend or revoke some retail-store or microbusiness licenses for specified gambling-device violations or fraud, or when the business has not opened within 12 months. The Board can also seek a court order to stop unlawful marijuana activity at a nuisance property; two reputable citizens must swear to the complaint.

Hemp growers face new legal risks

Certain hemp possession, growing, handling, or processing activities lose exemptions from prosecution under two listed laws. Other listed prosecution exemptions remain. The change may increase legal risk for affected hemp producers, growers, and others.

Penalties for illegal cannabis activity

People barred from buying marijuana cannot consume or possess it; a violation can bring a civil penalty of up to $25, treatment or education orders if available, and forfeiture. Unlicensed cultivation or processing is a Class 6 felony, and unlicensed distribution brings escalating penalties: a Class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense, a Class 1 misdemeanor for a second, and a Class 6 felony for later offenses. Adults age 21 or older may share up to two ounces without payment, with limits on that exception. A court can also require a bond of up to $1,000 for a covered violation; failure to provide a required bond can lead to confinement for up to six months.

Hemp and cannabis sellers face enforcement

The Board can inspect covered marijuana and cannabinoid businesses during business hours and take samples to check for violations. Specified hemp product violations are Class 1 misdemeanors, and each day counts as a separate offense. The Commonwealth can take marijuana, equipment, and other property tied to unlawful activity. Certain FDA-approved products and products dispensed under a specified pharmacy law are excluded from the hemp offense rule.

Localities pay more for community services

Beginning July 1, 2026, the state match for community-based services averages 71%. Localities must cover a larger share of matching costs, which can reduce the money available for local services.

State limits unfunded benefit increases

State agencies cannot change a service or payment in a way that may add eligible people or raise per-person benefit costs unless the General Assembly funds the change. This can limit expanded access or higher payments when no appropriation covers the cost.

Local governments fund WMATA construction

Beginning July 1, 2026, qualifying local governments must contribute to WMATA capital support. The calculation includes $27.12 million and an added amount set at $136 million in FY2029. That added amount rises by 3% each year afterward, subject to adjustments tied to contributions from other jurisdictions. Local governments may use available tax revenue; households do not owe the payment directly.

WMATA funding tied to costs and oversight

Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia withholds parts of available WMATA assistance when required rules are not met. A 35% holdback applies for missing cost-measurement steps or rail and bus costs rising by more than 3% beginning in FY2029. A 20% holdback applies for certain alternate-director conduct, missing capital planning or reports, or missed budget submissions and annual presentations. For FY2029, another 35% holdback applies if WMATA’s board has not approved a workforce transition plan by July 1, 2028. A further 35% holdback applies in the year after a rail or bus operator is laid off because of rail automation. The total dollar amounts depend on available funds.

Port fund commitments capped at $440 million

The Virginia Port Authority cannot have more than $440 million in combined Commonwealth Port Fund bonds and other long-term commitments. The limit caps this funding source for future debt and other long-term obligations.

Lower Medicaid payments for providers

Virginia seeks federal approval to withhold Medicaid provider inflation increases for FY2027 and FY2028. This applies to several provider payment categories, including hospitals, nursing facilities, and graduate medical education. The withheld amounts also cannot be added to later inflation updates or certain rate reviews.

Medicaid mobile crisis payments are limited

After federal approval, Virginia limits Medicaid payment for mobile crisis services to four hours per incident. Only providers licensed and approved by the behavioral health department and contracted with community services boards can receive payment. This limits reimbursement, not the time a person may receive crisis care.

Less money for behavioral health loans

The state must remove $5 million in unused Behavioral Health Loan Repayment Program funds by August 1, 2026. This leaves less money available for the program and its participants.

Corporations face tighter income tax exceptions

Virginia narrows some corporate tax exceptions for income tied to related companies. One exception applies only to qualifying income connected to a jurisdiction where the related company has sufficient tax ties. A licensing exception applies only when rates and terms match agreements with unrelated companies. These limits can raise taxable income for affected corporations.

Historic rehabilitation credits capped through 2024

For Virginia tax years beginning from January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2024, a taxpayer could claim no more than $5 million in historic rehabilitation tax credits per year. The limit included credits carried over from earlier years.

Lower sales tax dealer payments

Starting with June 2010 sales tax returns, dealers required to pay electronically receive no compensation under this rule. Other dealers’ compensation is limited by monthly taxable sales: 1.6% of the first 3% of tax on sales up to $62,500, 1.2% for sales from $62,501 to $208,000, and 0.8% above $208,000. The rule does not change the sales tax rate consumers pay.

Neighborhood tax credits face tighter limits

Virginia limits Neighborhood Assistance Act tax credits to $20 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028. It reserves $12 million for education proposals and $8 million for other proposals. Organizations must serve low-income people or eligible students with disabilities as at least half of those they serve, and at least half their revenue must support those services. An individual needs the organization’s certification to receive a credit.

New tax breaks must have end dates

Certain new Virginia sales-tax exemptions and tax credits enacted after the 2019 session and before the 2029 session must end by June 30, 2030. The law also limits extensions of existing incentives. The supplied text does not give the full details of an exception for some tax department exemptions.

Virginia collects unpaid taxes sooner

Virginia can appoint local collectors or hire collection agencies to collect delinquent state taxes. The state does not have to wait 90 days after assessment before starting collection.

More protections for cannabis records

Employers, schools, and government agencies cannot require applicants to disclose covered private marijuana records. A government agency cannot deny an application solely because someone refuses. These protections end July 1, 2026. A specified felony marijuana offense also no longer blocks a covered care job or volunteer role by itself.

Assisted living rates get a firm cap

Beginning January 1, 2026, Virginia may set approved rates for covered assisted living and adult foster care homes using 85% of licensed capacity. The rate cannot exceed $2,130 per month. Homes in Planning District Eight may receive a 15% higher rate. These rates support qualifying placements but do not guarantee a particular household payment.

Autism therapy gets new limits

Virginia Medicaid and CHIP can add coverage for certain autism therapy billing codes and update related service and payment rules. Starting July 1, 2026, Medicaid limits applied behavior analysis to 20 hours per week per person. DMAS can approve more hours with documented medical need under EPSDT. Children age five and younger can use a one-year provisional diagnosis, and the limit does not apply to specified school-based therapy paid through fee-for-service Medicaid.

Changes to Medicaid disability services

Virginia seeks federal approval to offer some developmental disability waiver services by telehealth, and to let people receiving consumer-directed services name someone to help manage employer duties. The state may also expand the pool of peer-support providers, with safeguards for care quality. Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia plans to move service facilitation into a statewide broker model and end it as a separate service; federal approval is required.

Changes to state employee health plans

Virginia provides an estimated $121 million in FY2027 and $168 million in FY2028 for health-plan costs, and employees can be charged part of their medical premiums. The annual out-of-pocket maximum cannot exceed the limit used in the plan year that began July 1, 2014. The plan covers autism treatment through age 18 and protects access to covered, medically necessary care. Other rules bar maintenance-drug network penalties, set provider and drug-formulary standards, and allow a single exclusive mail-order pharmacy. A qualifying hospital can join the plan network under a written rate agreement.

Medicaid takes priority for child services

Children’s Services Act funds cannot pay for a service that Medicaid can fund for an eligible child when that Medicaid service is available and appropriate. The state can use those funds when Medicaid services are unavailable or do not fit the child’s needs.

Medicaid weight-loss drug rules change

Virginia Medicaid requires service authorization for covered weight-loss drugs. DMAS must review price deals and can select one only if it costs $245 or less per unit and achieves the assumed savings; coverage under a selected deal needs federal approval. If no qualifying deal is selected, GLP-1 drugs are covered for members with a body mass index over 40, or over 37 with hypertension, type II diabetes, or dyslipidemia. Traditional FDA-approved weight-loss drugs remain covered under the stated terms, excluding GLP-1 and newer weight-loss drugs.

More dental care, with a possible cap

Virginia can establish preventive and restorative dental coverage for adults on Medicaid, and can add dental services for FAMIS MOMS enrollees. Medicaid can also cover medically needed anesthesia and facility charges for dental care for enrollees age 10 or younger, and crowns after root canal treatment received before Medicaid enrollment. The state must seek federal approval for a $2,000 yearly cap on covered adult Medicaid dental services; that cap is not in effect unless approved and implemented.

More Medicaid checks and appeal help

For Medicaid applicants and recipients subject to asset limits, state workers must check electronic records for assets. Workers must also verify income when someone reports no earned or unearned income, using available employment data, and apply the same income-check protocols to all applicants and recipients. State agencies must explain how people can get help, provide application information, and appeal eligibility decisions, including guidance on mail postmarks.

New rules for Medicaid prescription drugs

Virginia Medicaid must create a preferred drug list, with an 8-to-16-member committee recommending preferred drugs, exclusions, and protections for certain serious conditions. Safety and clinical effectiveness must come before cost, and changes to the Common Core Formulary must wait for a fiscal review. Virginia may also create a specialty-drug program that updates covered drugs, guidelines, and rates at least quarterly; providers can appeal, and vendors cannot receive incentives to deny or delay appropriate treatment.

Paid leave startup repaid through premiums

The Virginia Employment Commission can borrow money for startup costs of the paid family and medical leave program. Employers and employees repay the loan through premiums starting in 2028, with repayment due by January 1, 2034. The law does not state the loan amount or premium rates.

State employee health plan changes

State employees can keep care for a terminal illness with the same provider for life after the provider leaves the plan, unless the provider was removed for cause. Qualifying adult children can keep coverage even if they live elsewhere, if they depend on the employee for more than half their support and receive residential support services. The state also reviews ways to lower GLP-1 drug costs. If it cannot achieve required savings, it may raise cost-sharing or restrict weight-loss use, after giving lawmakers 30 days’ notice.

New fees for home sewage and wells

Onsite sewage repair or upgrade permits cost $225 or $425 for systems under 1,000 gallons per day, based on certified supporting work. For systems over 1,000 gallons per day, the fee is $1,400. Construction permits for smaller systems cost up to $225 or $425, and private well permits cost $300. Certification letters cost up to $320 or $350. The $225 and $425 repair fees are waived for qualifying pit privy or failing-system work when income is below 200% of federal poverty guidelines.

College tuition and fees face mixed rules

Public colleges can set resident tuition and fees, including by looking at market rates. At many public colleges, covered mandatory fees for Virginia undergraduates generally cannot rise by more than 3% a year, with stated exceptions; community colleges can raise some fees by up to $15 in one year with approval. The law encourages Mary Washington and Virginia Military Institute to limit some in-state tuition and fee increases, but sets no cap there. Dual-enrollment cost rules must treat public-school and homeschooled students alike. Colleges must absorb the cost of new tuition waivers not authorized by state law.

More support for Virginia students

The state funds a youth program to build math and science skills and contracts for attendance help for at-risk students. School divisions choose whether to buy attendance services. Students also must earn one verified history and social science credit to graduate, using an approved test or other approved method. The state provides $300,000 each year for related test materials.

Need-based aid favors first-degree students

Virginia students in eligible programs can receive need-based aid for tuition and required fees. Students with greater remaining need get priority, but students seeking another bachelor’s degree generally wait until first-degree students’ needs are met. Students must be enrolled and meet their school’s academic progress rules.

New measure for state college aid

Colleges must use the federal Student Aid Index, counted as zero or higher, when determining need for state higher-education aid. This replaces the former Expected Family Contribution measure. The law changes how need is measured but does not set an award amount.

New salary schedules for state officials

The law sets salary schedules for listed state officials, independent agency directors, and higher education leaders beginning July 25, 2026. The periods run through June 9, 2027, and then through June 30, 2028. It also sets pay for listed Governor-appointed officials; a reappointed official may receive up to their prior salary. The supplied text does not include most salary amounts. For a Commonwealth’s Attorneys’ Services Council Administrator with an approved faculty appointment, the institution pays half the listed salary; the Council pays the full listed salary if the Administrator leaves the faculty.

Nursing students get scholarships and loan help

Virginia provides about $9.6 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for nursing scholarships and loan programs, plus about $1.9 million each year for programs to recruit and keep nurses and nurse faculty. A separate long-term care scholarship fund gets $64,000 each year. Licensed practical nurses working as Virginia school nurses can receive up to $10,000 for registered-nurse training, with up to $300,000 available each year. Some awards require recipients to work in Virginia long-term care or as school nurses after training.

Radford teacher students get flat-fee tuition

Radford University must offer a different tuition or fee structure to first-time Virginia freshmen enrolled full time in an eligible teacher program. The initiative receives $300,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Students must stay enrolled full time and finish the eligible degree within four years. The benefit becomes a financial obligation to the university if a student leaves full-time enrollment, changes to a noneligible degree, or does not finish on time.

New safety and tracking rules for cannabis

The Board must set rules to prevent illegal marijuana and regulated-hemp activity, and must track marijuana from seed or young plant until sale, transfer, or destruction. Delivery to consumers must be in person, with rules for age checks, distance, and records. Dispensing areas need on-site pharmacist supervision, except when all products are secured where only the pharmacist has access; processors must guard against diversion.

Localities pay service matching costs

Localities pay matching costs for covered Children’s Services Act services, which help fund those services. Non-Medicaid residential services use a rate 25% above the FY2007 base starting July 1, 2009. Medicaid residential services use that higher rate starting July 1, 2011. Non-Medicaid public-school services after June 30, 2011 use the FY2007 base rate.

More adoption help, with required child investigations

The state provides funding for adoption assistance and programs, including $1.5 million each year for foster-care adoption pilots. Special-needs adoption funding includes $7.6 million in state funds in the first year and $5 million in the second, plus $2.25 million in other funds each year. Another $10 million in state funds and $2.5 million in other funds are available each year for eligible adoption-related programs. Of a separate $4.5 million annual appropriation, $1.3 million must fund child-protection assessments after reports of substance exposure at birth, even when the substance was prescribed and the mother sought or received treatment.

More prosecutor staffing for local cases

The state provides $685,705 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for five positions prosecuting gang-related crimes in specified Northern Virginia jurisdictions. It also sets aside $600,000 each year for prosecutors handling insurance fraud, but those funds remain unallocated until required agencies report joint agreements with receiving jurisdictions. Localities that use body cameras must fund one full-time entry-level prosecutor for up to 75 cameras, plus one more for each additional 75; an alternative funding plan needs the prosecutor’s agreement.

Wastewater projects face pollution deadlines

Two Spotsylvania wastewater projects have nutrient-removal deadlines of January 1, 2027; the Fredericksburg deadline is January 1, 2030. Projects that miss required pollution levels must buy enough credits to meet their nitrogen and phosphorus limits. Fredericksburg must start construction by July 1, 2025, and report progress every February 1 and August 1 until work is complete.

New cannabis safety and use rules

The Board must provide online guidance about home growing, responsible use, health risks, travel, equipment, and possible job effects. Retail labels must point consumers to that information, and stores must display a decal for license checks. The Board must set penalties for sales to people under 21 or intoxicated people; repeat violations can lead to license loss. Covered dispensed doses are limited to 10 milligrams of THC, except as allowed by law.

More school security grants

Virginia provides up to $12 million for school security grants in FY2027 and another $12 million in FY2028. A school division can receive up to $250,000 per year. Localities generally provide a 25% match, though the state can reduce it for some divisions and one school is exempt.

School funding protections and penalties

Divisions that combine qualifying small schools keep the same Standards of Quality funding rules for five years. Unspent school operations money stays in local escrow accounts after June 30, 2027, or June 30, 2028. But the state can withhold school funds for certain failures to meet agreements or reporting rules, with a chance to correct the problem. A division using another division’s unused alternative-education slot pays tuition above the state share.

Regional growth grants gain new rules

Virginia puts $25.33 million into its regional growth fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Each year, $2.25 million supports capacity building, $16.9 million is allocated by population, and $6.18 million is awarded competitively. The Board can take back a council’s allocation when its unspent balance exceeds its average annual award; that money can then support competitive grants. A council’s extra allocation is capped at $1 million per year.

State redirects money among capital projects

The state moves an estimated $9.76 million from the Monroe Building project and $7.5 million from a forensic science project to other listed projects. It also moves unused bond and general-fund authorizations among capital project pools, including up to $12.5 million in unused bond authorization. These are changes to state project funding, not household payments.

Virginia returns to regional carbon market

Virginia must rejoin the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a regional carbon market. The state must restore its 2020 rule within 90 days after the law takes effect and update it by January 1, 2027. Allowances must be sold through the program’s auctions, with proceeds handled under state law. The law does not state a household payment or an exact change in energy costs.

New rules for hemp products

Sellers must get required permits and register each location before selling covered hemp products. Products must meet labeling, packaging, and testing rules; topical products must say they are not for human consumption. Some FDA-approved, scheduled products are excluded. Specified violations can bring penalties of up to $10,000 per day.

Stronger safety rules for cannabis products

The Board must set sanitary standards and testing rules for marijuana and regulated hemp products. Retailers must check proof of legal age before every sale, track products, post a human-trafficking hotline notice, and share Board-approved information about product risks. Licensees must provide samples for random testing when requested. The Board must also set rules for growing, processing, packaging, labels, storage, shipping, and display. Product growers, processors, and microbusinesses must register each product, submit testing and label information, and pay the required fee.

Changes to Virginia transportation funding

Virginia changes how transportation money is planned and used. Highway maintenance and operations come before new construction, and transit funding can include reserves of up to 5% of revenue. VDOT can commit money to qualifying projects beyond the two-year budget and charge public or private groups for services. The law also funds agency facilities and maintenance.

Limits on utility line burial costs

For petitions filed on or after July 1, 2026, a utility cannot seek an annual increase for undergrounding above 3% of its distribution rate base. Its undergrounding program is also limited to 4,000 miles of overhead lines converted to underground service. The limits may constrain both customer cost recovery and the scale of the work.

New shares for Virginia transit funding

Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia divides its transit fund among several uses. The shares include 24.5% for operating costs, 17% for transit construction, and up to 3.5% for commuter rail. Another 46.5% supports WMATA, subject to a 50% cap, while 6% goes to a ridership program and 2.5% to special programs. Some recipients must provide a local match.

Virginia expands port capacity and financing

The Port Authority receives about $107 million in FY2027 and $86 million in FY2028 for port facilities, plus about $133 million and $139 million for the Portsmouth terminal lease. It also gets $20 million in FY2027 for Oak Park inland-port design and site work, after officials review its work plan and cost estimate. The Authority can issue up to $105.5 million in additional bonds and use up to $105 million in short-term debt while awaiting longer-term financing. If port revenues cannot cover specified bond payments, public funds pay estimated debt service of $25.5 million in FY2027 and $24.82 million in FY2028; separate special funds cover estimated payments of $8.5 million in each year for terminal-capacity bonds.

State changes how excess revenue is saved

For fiscal year 2026 revenue above the official estimate, $585.5 million is left out of calculations for two state fund deposits. The amount still counts toward the required Revenue Stabilization Fund deposit. This changes state savings calculations, not household payments.

State moves money between public funds

The state transfers $74.9 million from specified funds to the general fund in each of fiscal years 2027 and 2028. It also transfers an estimated $99.5 million, plus first-year interest, from the 2025 Income Tax Rebate Fund by June 30. That transfer does not set or calculate an individual tax rebate.

Medicaid hospital payments face new limits

Hospitals acquired by designated Virginia Type One hospitals on or after July 1, 2022 receive Type Two treatment for specified Medicaid payments; earlier acquisitions remain Type One. When the federal payment cap is reached, Virginia reduces or ends the newest supplemental payments first. The state can redistribute excess payments to eligible hospitals with unmet uncompensated care costs, without increasing total approved spending. Hospitals must meet service measures and complete required fixes to keep private enhanced payments.

Medicaid payment rules change

Virginia changes how Medicaid pays providers. Rehabilitation hospital payments shift under a budget-neutral method, and the average managed-care gain assumption is capped at 1% unless lawmakers approve more. Nursing facility rate rebasing is delayed from July 1, 2027, to rates effective July 1, 2030, while DMAS reviews the method. The state can revise the hospital assessment to include more providers, within federal limits, and can pay separately for eligible sickle cell gene therapies.

New fee on disability care providers

Virginia charges providers in intermediate care facilities for people with intellectual disabilities 6% of their revenue. The state can adjust temporary Medicaid rates to cover new Medicaid costs from the assessment.

New Medicaid payment methods for care

Virginia changes Medicaid payment methods for outpatient rehabilitation and nursing facilities; the nursing facility model must change by October 1, 2025, without raising total spending. Adult day health care payments may move to an hourly rate, capped at six hours a day, with no increase in service cost. Beginning July 1, 2026, the state may update rates for six developmental disability waiver services using a 2025 study; the new amounts are not stated.

New rules shape Medicaid plan payments

Virginia adjusts Medicaid plan payments for expected savings, spending trends, and behavioral-health needs; some efficiency adjustments can lower rates. The state may add contract terms on staffing, provider networks, care coordination, and maternal and child health. The actuary must review related-party spending and audit findings on unallowable costs. Starting July 1, 2026, attainable administrative-cost changes enter rate setting; behavioral-health adjustments must remain budget neutral, and contract changes cannot add future state costs.

Residential treatment rates stop rising automatically

Psychiatric residential treatment rates rose 8.89% beginning July 1, 2022, with a daily ceiling of $460.89; providers missing required cost reports receive 75% of the ceiling. Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia keeps covered rate ceilings at their June 30, 2026 levels and ends rebasing and inflation adjustments. Ending those adjustments requires federal approval.

Localities return unspent school funds

Localities must send unspent required school-program matching funds to the state by the end of the following school year. For a qualifying Standards of Quality project, the Secretary of Education may return 75% of recovered funds after required local approvals, reporting, and spending steps. A separate rule covers Lottery and Incentive program matches, except when another provision allows the money to carry over.

Public pension funding rates set

For FY2027 and FY2028, Virginia sets employer pension contribution rates at 12.20% for public school teachers, 11.07% for state employees, 31.67% for state police, 22.60% for law officers, and 30.49% for judges. These rates set employer funding obligations; they do not change individual employee contribution or benefit amounts.

Enterprise zone grants may be reduced

Virginia provides $14.25 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Enterprise Zone Grant Act awards. The Department can reduce each business’s award to fit the available money and does not have to pay the unpaid portion the next year. Funds left over because awards are below the budget are reappropriated for the program.

New pathways for cannabis impact licensees

The Board must create a process for identifying impact-license applicants. Qualifying people must hold at least 51% ownership and direct control, meet a listed residence test, and meet at least one other legal criterion. Impact licensees and microbusinesses can share space and equipment and work on another licensee’s premises. Only one outdoor-growing license can operate on a parcel or qualifying connected parcels under common control.

Tighter limits on cannabis licenses

The Board cannot issue more than 350 retail store licenses, down from 400. Before January 1, 2028, it can issue no more than five Tier V cultivation licenses; after that date, any added licenses must be available at least equally to impact-license applicants and other applicants. People and businesses generally face limits on how many license interests they can hold, including a five-license limit and a one-license limit for Tier V cultivation, with specified exceptions.

Virginia offers grants to attract businesses

Virginia funds business and job programs, including $19.75 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for the Commonwealth’s Development Opportunity Fund. Grants and generally interest-free loans can support eligible site, infrastructure, transportation, building, and training costs. Other funding includes investment grants, film production, and the Virginia Jobs Investment Program. The state can seek grant money back when projects miss agreed investment and job targets.

Data centers pay electricity tax

Covered data centers pay $0.011 for each kilowatt-hour of electricity they use, including self-supplied power. The tax starts July 1, 2026, and applies before July 1, 2028; the first collection is in September 2026. Beginning in fiscal years starting July 1, 2027, operators receive a pro rata share of prior-year excess tax revenue. Utility-supplied power refunds are credited to the operator's account; self-supplied power refunds are paid directly, with no interest.

Virginia may reject costly federal tax changes

Starting January 1, 2023, Virginia does not automatically follow some federal income-tax changes. The rule applies when a change is projected to affect state revenue by more than $15 million; a $75 million combined threshold applies to certain changes made between regular sessions. Federal tax extenders are exempt, and the General Assembly can later adopt a change. Starting January 1, 2024, the $15 million threshold adjusts each year for inflation.

Adults can possess more cannabis

Adults age 21 or older can possess up to two ounces of marijuana on their person or in public, twice the prior one-ounce limit. Qualifying hemp businesses and people growing marijuana at home for personal use do not need the specified marijuana license. Other rules still apply, and possession above the limit can bring a civil penalty of up to $25.

Electronic credentials for licensed workers

People with a credential from Virginia’s professional licensing agency or its boards can show an electronic version instead of a physical one. The agency or its agent must provide a way to verify that the credential is valid.

Free court filings for sealing petitions

Starting July 1, 2026, a person filing a petition under Virginia Code § 19.2-392.12:1 pays no court fees or filing costs. The law does not state how much those costs would otherwise be.

Identification cards for incarcerated people

DMV must work with the Department of Corrections to provide identification cards through DMV Connect to people held in state correctional facilities. The law does not state a fee or start date.

Juvenile court and license options

During a judicial emergency and for up to 90 days after it ends, a chief judge can change or waive juvenile license ceremonies. The judge can deliver licenses or arrange for the Department of Motor Vehicles to mail them. For certain juvenile summonses, a petition is not needed when the child is released to a parent or guardian. The juvenile can request informal intake proceedings by giving the court written notice at least 10 days before trial.

More access to DNA test certificates

People can request certain post-conviction DNA certificates under Virginia’s public records law. The Department of Forensic Science must provide a certificate showing that the convicted person’s DNA profile was not found on tested evidence, with identifying details about victims and related people removed. Disclosure is not required when law prohibits it or a prosecutor says it would jeopardize an active investigation.

More accessible services and travel information

The law provides $266,363 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for radio reading services for people who are blind or have vision impairments. The Virginia Tourism Authority must also update its disability travel guide and make its website link easier to find, using available funds. These changes do not provide direct household payments.

More discretion for indigent appeal lawyers

The Virginia Supreme Court decides the fee for lawyers representing people who cannot afford counsel in appeals to that Court. The law does not set a specific fee amount.

More help with veterans’ benefits

The law provides $245,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a veterans benefits clinic. It also requires the Adjutant General to inform Virginia National Guard members about the state-sponsored group life insurance program and make referrals when requested. The law does not change insurance coverage or premiums, or set the amount of help each veteran receives.

More public defenders in Fairfax communities

People who qualify for indigent defense in Herndon, Vienna, or the City of Fairfax can receive public defender services. The law funds three positions but does not state the total funding amount.

More service help for immigrants

The state provides $100,000 in FY2027 to Richmond for services and legal help through Sacred Heart Center. The statewide 2-1-1 service gets $100,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for translation and interpretation. The funding helps immigrants find local health, housing, and other services.

More services for violence and homelessness

Samaritan House gets $500,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for services in Southeast Virginia. The money supports people affected by domestic or sexual violence, human trafficking, or homelessness. The law does not set individual eligibility rules or payment amounts.

More support for foster youth

The state must set an automatic yearly inflation adjustment to maximum foster-parent room-and-board payments. It applies only in a fiscal year after state employees receive salary increases; the law does not set the adjustment amount. Local departments must also explain service-restoration options to people who choose to leave foster care or stop independent-living services before age 21.

More support for Henrico families

The law provides $600,000 in FY2027 and $600,000 in FY2028 for Connect Plus wraparound services for youth and families in the St. Luke community of Henrico County. The provision does not set individual eligibility rules or direct household payments.

No local fee on state summonses

Counties, cities, and towns cannot charge the covered local fee on a summons issued by a state law-enforcement agency. The law does not state the fee amount.

Older inmates get release reviews

The Virginia Parole Board must consider inmates who meet the law’s criteria for conditional release based on age. The Board can wait up to three years before the next review. An inmate who can also seek discretionary parole must petition for this review. Consideration does not guarantee release.

Option to prepay certain civil penalties

A person facing a civil penalty under the specified emergency law can pay it ahead of time. The amount is set by executive order, and a judge can still decide the penalty at trial.

Payments for successful Guard referrals

The state provides $50,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Virginia National Guard referral payments. Qualifying people can be paid when a referral leads to enlistment. The law does not state the payment per referral or the program’s qualification rules.

Protection for compelled marijuana testimony

When the law applies, a person who gives testimony or records to the Commonwealth about another person’s alleged offense cannot refuse on self-incrimination grounds. The testimony and evidence cannot be used against that person, who also cannot be prosecuted for the offense they testified about.

Rewards for reporting government wrongdoing

A person who reports wrongdoing or abuse under the Fraud and Abuse Whistle Blower Protection Act may receive a money reward. The law does not state the reward amount or payment date.

State pays approved tort claims

The state pays judgments under the Virginia Tort Claims Act from the state treasury. The payment source depends on whether the agency involved uses general funds, or both general and nongeneral funds. The law does not set judgment amounts.

Fewer fees for some DMV customers

The DMV cannot charge a credit-card fee for transactions under $10,000. It may charge 1.5 percent for transactions of $10,000 or more, with an exception for some transactions handled for another agency. The state also bars fees for unused or rarely used E-ZPass transponders. The DMV does not have to charge a $40 registration-withholding fee in specified toll-relief cases.

Help with failed emissions test repairs

The Department may use up to $300,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to help pay for qualifying vehicle repairs. The vehicle must fail emissions standards, and its owner must be financially unable to pay for repairs. The law does not set an individual payment or guarantee assistance.

Home mold cleanup requires certification

A business that offers professional mold cleanup in a home must hold recognized mold-remediation certification and follow an accepted standard. The standard may be from the Environmental Protection Agency, ANSI/IICRC, or an equivalent ANSI-accredited body.

Kratom sales barred for under-21s

Virginia bars sellers from offering kratom products to people younger than 21. Labels must list all ingredients and include specified health guidance.

More protections for consumers

Virginia bars certain ignition-interlock ads, including ads from unapproved vendors or ads that appear to come from the government. The law also treats violations of listed consumer rules as prohibited practices. Companies cannot obtain or share your identifiable reproductive or sexual health information without your consent.

More Sunday and holiday alcohol sales

The Board may choose some government stores to sell alcohol on New Year’s Day and Sundays after 10 a.m. The law does not require every store to open at those times.

Taxpayers get information at audits

At the start of a tax audit, the Virginia tax department must explain the audit process and the tax rules being reviewed. It must also post a list of common audit issues online.

Coleman Bridge crossings become toll-free

Beginning January 1, 2026, people no longer pay tolls or other use charges to cross the George P. Coleman Bridge. The law does not state how much any driver will save.

Better help for state health plan members

Virginia must appoint an Ombudsman to answer state health plan questions and help members with appeals. Members may direct dental plan payments to a dentist or oral surgeon by notifying the plan in writing. Plans must use ID numbers other than Social Security numbers and explain when another plan pays first. When a plan sends payment for an out-of-network claim, it must explain how to use the payment and identify the provider.

Cancer screening help for firefighters

Virginia provides $2 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to reimburse qualifying localities for career firefighters’ eligible cancer screenings. Reimbursement is capped at $350 per screening. The locality must have a qualifying fire department or fire company.

Cancer screenings for Virginia firefighters

The state provides $1 million in FY2027 for a firefighter cancer-screening pilot, if a participating screening center provides an equal match each year. The program must screen at least 450 current or former firefighters annually. They must serve or have served localities in Planning District 8.

Clinical support for recovery academy

Chesterfield Recovery Academy receives $400,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for clinical support. The law does not set individual eligibility rules or household payments.

Continued disability support services

Virginia must keep current Personal Attendant Services running while it handles program administration. The state provides $446,618 each year for long-term rehabilitation case management. The state must also publish annual rules for Individual and Family Supports Program priorities, eligibility, awards, and appeals before applications open.

Early literacy support at pediatric visits

Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia funds a Reach Out and Read pilot in selected underserved areas. The pilot receives $252,000 in state funds and $468,000 in other funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028. Funding depends on federal approval and available federal funds.

Free dental care in underserved areas

The state provides $141,280 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for Mission of Mercy dental projects. These projects provide free dental care in identified underserved areas. The law does not specify how many people will receive care.

Health cost fund for violence victims

The law creates a fund to help mass violence victims pay out-of-pocket health costs. No money can be transferred or spent until the General Assembly adopts rules for running the fund. The law does not state the fund’s size or the amount a person may receive.

Health credits for retired social-service workers

Virginia funds health insurance credits for retired local social-services employees. Each year, the law provides $712,062 in general funds and $684,138 in other funds. It does not state each retiree’s credit amount or change eligibility rules.

Hepatitis treatment funding for facility residents

Virginia provides $540,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for hepatitis treatment for residents of the Virginia Center for Behavioral Rehabilitation. The facility must make efforts to use certified federal 340B providers for related medicines. The law does not set an amount per resident.

Medicaid care around release from prison

Virginia seeks federal approval to let Medicaid-eligible people enroll in a managed care plan 30 days before release from incarceration. During that time, the plan must hold a phone or video meeting to prepare a transition plan. Eligible incarcerated youth and young adults can receive screenings, diagnostic services, and targeted case management during the 30 days before release and immediately afterward.

More condition-specific disability support

Virginia funds services for people with ALS, the Special Olympics Healthy Athlete Program, and a service-dog training center. The support includes equipment loans, clinics, communication help, travel stipends, respite care, and training capacity. The law does not set individual award amounts or the number of people served.

More fruit and vegetables with SNAP

SNAP benefits buy twice as many fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets and local food retailers through Virginia Fresh Match. Virginia provides $1 million in FY2027 to run and expand the program. The law does not set a per-person spending limit.

More HIV care in local communities

The state provides $57,963 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for HIV early care at Richmond’s Arthur Ashe Health Center. The services are for Richmond residents. Health Brigade also receives $10,663 each year to provide financial assistance, support groups, education, and outreach for people with HIV in Central Virginia. The law does not set an individual payment amount.

More home visits for families

Virginia provides about $9 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for home-visiting programs that use the Healthy Families America model. Some funding supports statewide coordination, training, and program quality. Families served by participating programs may receive home visits; the law does not set a household benefit amount.

More information for families after SUDEP

The state provides $142,671 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for investigations when a death may be linked to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy. The medical examiner must refer each case within 30 days after findings. The office must also post public information and a death investigation form online.

More obstetric care on Virginia’s Eastern Shore

Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital receives $600,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for obstetric services. Its contract must require the hospital to provide those services to Virginia’s Eastern Shore residents.

More services for low-income residents

Local Community Action Agencies receive $13.525 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for services that may include child care, jobs, health and nutrition, housing, and transportation for low-income people and families. The state also allocates $4,185,189 each year for companion services for low-income older adults and adults with disabilities. Neither provision sets a payment amount for each household or person.

More SNAP help for immigrant families

Virginia’s Department of Social Services must provide multilingual SNAP information to qualified aliens and their U.S.-citizen children. As far as federal law allows, the department must reduce application burdens and address concerns about immigration sponsors and status. SNAP benefit amounts do not change.

More support at local health clinics

The ETSI Health Clinic receives $50,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for health services. The law does not set patient eligibility rules, service amounts, or individual payments.

More support for families facing childhood cancer

The ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation receives $700,289 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for support services through pediatric cancer treatment centers in Virginia. The law does not set individual award amounts or detailed eligibility rules.

More support for justice-related care

Virginia provides $1.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for outpatient competency evaluations, services, and clinician training. It also provides $2,197,050 each year for jail diversion and reentry services. The commissioner distributes diversion funds to community groups based on need and readiness.

More support for newborn screening

Virginia provides $999,804 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to support and expand newborn screening. Fee revenues from the state laboratory division cover the program and expansion costs.

More support for sickle cell families

The Statewide Sickle Cell Chapters of Virginia receives $105,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for community grants. The grants support patient assistance, education, and services for families affected by sickle cell disease. The organization sets grant distribution criteria; the law does not set an individual payment amount.

More time to apply for energy aid

The State Board of Social Services can extend the application period for Virginia’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program beyond the period in effect on July 1, 2024. The Board can do so only when enough funding is available and must allow public comment before adopting its first rules.

Out-of-state treatment for some patients

The Commissioner can seek treatment in another state for people committed to, or conditionally released from, the Virginia Center for Behavioral Rehabilitation. This applies when services for a person’s specific needs are unavailable in Virginia or the Center cannot meet additional capacity needs.

Payment for emergency mental health screening

Licensed health providers can receive payment for medical screening and assessment of people with mental illness while they are in emergency custody. The law does not set payment rates or guarantee a particular amount to an individual.

Priority COVID tests for care facility residents

Nursing home and assisted living residents and employees get priority for COVID-19 testing when rapid results are needed to prevent or contain outbreaks. Testing costs may be billed to responsible third parties; the law does not require residents or employees to pay.

Privacy for cannabis patient records

Patient certification and agent registration information is confidential and exempt from Virginia’s public-records law. Specified officials, law-enforcement agencies investigating a specific person and violation, care providers, involved cannabis businesses, and registered agents can access it for stated purposes. An agent can see only information about the patient they represent.

Specialized care for brain injuries

Virginia must seek approval for a project with specialized placements for 20 people with traumatic brain injuries and neurocognitive disorders. The state must set the services, enrollment rules, and payment rates. The project depends on waiver approval.

Tdap vaccines for uninsured children

Virginia provides $2 million in FY2027 and $2 million in FY2028 to buy Tdap vaccines for children without health insurance. The law does not set a payment amount for each child.

Work help for new benefit recipients

The law provides $1.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to help people newly subject to SNAP or Medicaid work requirements connect with qualifying jobs, volunteer activities, and related resources. Workforce programs must give priority, when federal law allows, to Medicaid enrollees required to join the named training and employment program. The funding does not guarantee a job or change the work requirements.

Financial counseling for plumbing program

Virginia’s Indoor Plumbing Program administrators must make every reasonable effort to offer participants basic financial counseling. The law does not require a set number of counseling hours or promise money.

More state-funded housing support

Virginia provides $564,000 from the general fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for housing support under state law. This budget item does not state individual payment amounts or eligibility details.

Clearer college fees and costs

Beginning July 1, 2026, public four-year colleges must, when practicable, show athletic fees on their tuition-and-fees webpages. Virginia’s higher education council must also work toward a standard way to calculate and publish mandatory fees. The council must coordinate a committee to identify technology ideas that could lower college or student costs while maintaining or improving learning. These steps do not require colleges to lower fees or adopt the ideas.

College help for former foster youth

The state provides $500,000 each year for college support for young adults who have experienced foster care. Grants may help pay for coaches or mentors, housing, childcare, and transportation. The law does not set an individual grant amount. The Virginia Community College System must report outcomes by November 30 each year.

Community college students get career placements

Virginia provides $500,000 in FY2027 for a three-year pilot offering internships and apprenticeships in artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity. The pilot aims to serve at least 1,000 Virginia community college students and recent graduates. The funding supports career opportunities, not a stated cash payment to participants.

Driving help for low-income workers

Drive to Work receives $75,000 from the state and $75,000 in available federal funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028. The program helps low-income or previously incarcerated people restore driving privileges to get to work. The law does not state how much each person can receive.

Education support for students in treatment

State agencies must work to ensure enough funding for education services listed in a student’s Individualized Education Program. This applies to students placed in or admitted to state-run or private psychiatric or residential treatment facilities.

Fair costs covered for youth

The state provides $25,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for educational participation costs for 4-H and Future Farmers of America youth at the State Fair of Virginia. The money cannot pay the fair’s administrative costs. The law does not set an amount for each youth or explain how families qualify.

Faster student loan reimbursements

The State Treasurer must work with Virginia colleges to reduce paper checks for student-loan reimbursements. They should consider debit cards, direct deposit, or other electronic payments. The law does not change reimbursement amounts or who qualifies.

George Mason can redirect funds to student aid

George Mason University can move the remaining money from its discontinued student loan funds into an endowment for student financial aid. The endowment can support undergraduate and graduate students in the university’s Higher Education Student Financial Assistance Program. The law does not state the available balance or individual award amounts.

Health students get financial aid

The state sets aside $1,225,700 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for financial aid to in-state medical and health professions students at Eastern Virginia Medical School or Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University. The law does not state individual award amounts or how the money is divided.

Higher pay for a state board chair

The Virginia Compensation Board chair receives an annual salary of $30,873 in the first year and $31,490 in the second year. The law does not identify those years by calendar date.

Job help for people leaving prison

Virginia provides $376,935 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for five positions supporting job placement for people returning to the community after incarceration. The state also provides fidelity bonds with the Virginia Community College System for people released from jails or state correctional centers whose jobs require a bond. The law does not set an individual payment amount or guarantee a job.

Lynchburg students get college grants

Virginia provides $500,000 from the general fund in FY2027 for grants to in-state undergraduates at Virginia University of Lynchburg. The money can support college education, but not religious training or theological education. Individual grant amounts are not stated.

More college support for veterans

The state provides $1.1 million and seven positions each year for veterans resource centers at seven community colleges. The centers support veterans, but the law does not set a direct payment or benefit amount for each veteran.

More flexible learning at Richard Bland

Richard Bland College may offer more learning options, including distance learning, work-based learning, competency-based programs, and credentials that build on each other. The college may also work with higher education and workforce partners. The law provides no separate funding for these options.

More help for student loan borrowers

The government funds a student loan ombudsman with $174,000 and one staff position in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The ombudsman helps student education loan borrowers in Virginia and provides an online course about loan terms, payments, repayment options, forgiveness, and disclosures. The program does not promise a loan payment or a specific amount of forgiveness.

More job support during recovery

The law provides about $1.3 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for vocational rehabilitation services. The services support people recovering from mental health, alcohol, or other substance use issues. The law does not set a payment amount per person.

More learning support for students

Virginia provides $250,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to Reck League for students in underperforming Hampton Roads schools. The American Civil War Museum receives $400,000 in FY2027 and $200,000 in FY2028 for free, standards-based learning activities and exhibits for K–12 students.

More performance pay for public workers

Appointed treasurers who meet program requirements may receive a salary increase, subject to state funding. Public offices can receive appropriated performance-pay funds after their officer certifies that the plan meets Board standards. State officials can also create programs to share measured productivity savings with employees. These provisions do not guarantee an individual raise or payment.

More salary supplements for public leaders

The law lets several public boards add to the pay of covered agency, museum, library, college, and plan leaders. Most supplements are optional and have no set amount; some require advance reporting or approval. Norfolk State University may add up to $17,000 to its president’s salary. Some supplements must use nonstate funds, private gifts, or available system funds.

More scholarship and emergency aid

Virginia provides $11,000 a year for soil scientist scholarships and $86,500 a year for Virginia Tech scholarships, internships, and graduate assistantships in FY2027 and FY2028. Virginia Tech aid requires financial need and participation in an academic support program. Colleges can also use up to 1% of undergraduate need-based aid for students facing emergencies that put them at risk of dropping out.

More school and job support for people with disabilities

Three community colleges receive money and staff positions in FY2027 and FY2028 for programs serving deaf students and students with intellectual disabilities. The state also provides $200,000 each year for Didlake employment services and sets aside $172,250 yearly for training an estimated 21 people whose costs federal vocational rehabilitation funds cannot cover. These funds support programs and services, not set payments to individuals.

More support for local social services workers

The state provides $300,000 in general funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a statewide program to support local social services workers’ well-being and help retain them. The funding does not create a direct household payment.

More veterinary school openings

The state provides $550,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to increase Virginia applicant slots at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine from 50 to 60. The additional slots are for Virginia students applying to the Class of 2031. Applying does not guarantee admission.

More workforce training for immigrants

The state provides $1.5 million in FY2027 for workforce programs, renovations, accessibility, and training spaces for members of the immigrant community. Fairfax County and Prince William County each receive $750,000.

One-time recognition grants for faculty

Faculty selected for Outstanding Faculty Recognition can receive a grant from private funds set aside for the program. A faculty member who receives an award cannot receive another in a later year. The law does not state an award amount.

Pay for eligible citizen members

Eligible citizen members of specified state bodies can receive $50 for each day or part of a day at an official meeting, unless another law sets a higher amount. They can also get reasonable and necessary expenses repaid. Advisory meetings do not qualify for meeting pay, and several groups of full-time public employees and officials are excluded.

Pay for lawmakers’ official meetings

A General Assembly member can receive $300 for each qualifying meeting day or part of a day. The rate is $400 for a full day with at least two qualifying meetings, including one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Reasonable and necessary expenses are also reimbursed. These payments generally do not apply during sessions or their extensions, except during recesses.

Raises for state trades workers

The law provides $146,648 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for salary increases for trades staff at state facilities, including intellectual disability training centers. It does not state the raise any individual worker receives.

Retirement benefits for campus police

The Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind may create a campus police department. Officers appointed under state law qualify for the Virginia Law Officers’ Retirement System and Line of Duty Act benefits.

Scholarships for Shipyard Apprentices

The state provides $150,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for scholarships for shipyard workers enrolled in Tidewater Community College’s apprenticeship program. Scholarship conditions follow the program rules named in the law. The law does not state individual award amounts.

State employee status for ODU medical residents

Residents and fellows employed by Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University are state employees under this law. The provision does not specify which benefits or amounts they receive.

State pays initial EMS exam fees

Money from the $0.25 portion of the $4.25 for Life fee pays for the initial basic-level emergency medical services certification exam. The payment supports people seeking their first Virginia EMS certification. The law does not state how much is paid for each applicant.

State workers get training and commute help

State agencies can help pay for approved employee training or study when funds are available. Employees may need to return to state service for a set time or repay the support. Agencies can also reimburse some or all public transit, carpool, or vanpool costs, up to the employee’s actual costs.

Students get NASA-linked science opportunities

Virginia provides $320,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for science, technology, engineering, and math learning through an Old Dominion University partnership with NASA Wallops Flight Facility. The program serves 80 students a year. The appropriation supports learning opportunities, not individual cash payments.

UVA encouraged to limit tuition increases

The law encourages the University of Virginia to limit tuition and required fee increases for in-state undergraduates, as far as possible. It sets no specific cap and does not require a price reduction.

Yearly pay and benefit statements

Virginia Executive Department agencies must give each classified employee a yearly statement showing the full cost of pay and listed benefits. The Department of Human Resource Management gives guidance for statements at other covered agencies and colleges. The statements explain compensation but do not change pay or benefits.

Choose electronic Virginia tax forms

The Virginia Department of Taxation may provide Form 1099 electronically. Taxpayers can choose electronic delivery and do not have to receive the form that way.

Investors avoid sales tax on bullion

Virginia does not charge sales and use tax on qualifying gold, silver, or platinum bullion and legal tender coins. The exemption lasts through July 1, 2028.

Some state filing fees may fall

People and businesses filing documents with Virginia’s State Corporation Commission may pay less. The Commission can absorb credit card and eCheck fees and waive fees for some document copies.

Bridge notices help nearby businesses

When a weight limit is lowered on a covered bridge, the Department of Transportation must try to notify nearby businesses. It can use email, phone, mail, local media, its website, and social media.

Business help for cannabis impact licensees

The Cannabis Control Authority operates a program offering eligible impact licensees loans, grants, technical help, and other support to start licensed cannabis businesses. The state also creates a fund for this support, but the law does not set a funding or award amount. Fund money can carry over between fiscal years.

Cannabis business help reaches more groups

A state team helps small, women-owned, minority-owned, and veteran-owned businesses explore Virginia’s marijuana industry. It offers planning, technical help, and information about opportunities in areas affected by past marijuana enforcement. The Board’s participation plan also includes people from historically economically disadvantaged communities. The law does not promise money or a business award.

Fairer marijuana business license applications

The Board must create an application process for marijuana establishment licenses. When possible, the process must prevent unfair effects on historically economically disadvantaged communities.

Family day home pilot funds continue

Unused funds from an earlier budget period remain available for Virginia’s Small Family Day Home Provider Incentive Pilot in later years. The funds must support the pilot, which expires at the end of FY2029.

Longer certification for small businesses

Businesses certified as small, women-owned, or minority-owned on or after July 1, 2017, remain certified for five years. Certification can end sooner if it is revoked, the business closes, or it no longer qualifies.

Lower costs and earlier farm grants

Commercial farmers do not pay a fee for soil testing on property used for commercial farming. Eligible livestock and poultry waste projects can receive cost-share grant funds during planning and construction, before animals arrive. The applicant must have a contract to place animals on site within six months after the project ends. The law does not state grant amounts.

More procurement paths for cooperatives

A cooperative organized as a nonstock corporation can seek small-business recertification if it was certified before July 1, 2017, and still meets the requirements. The state must also include qualifying employment services organizations in procurement programs and related goals. Neither change guarantees a contract or award.

Some food sellers avoid permit fee

An individual who sells food at a local festival, fair, or community event avoids the $40 annual temporary food permit fee when the event happens only once per calendar year in the seller’s home locality.

Training and research for small farmers

Virginia sets aside $394,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for training and business help for small farmers. It also provides $392,107 each year for research and outreach on raising hybrid striped bass in farm ponds. These funds support programs, not direct payments to farmers.

Accessible playground funding in Charlottesville

The state provides $1.5 million in FY2027 to help build a regional all-abilities playground in Charlottesville. The law does not set individual payments or specify who may use the playground.

Accessible trail planned in Albemarle

Virginia must use $1.48 million in unused energy-efficiency program funds to design and build an accessible trail in Albemarle County. It will connect Biscuit Run Park to Monacan Indian Nation Tribute Park in the Southwood redevelopment project. This does not change household eligibility for the energy-efficiency program.

Better planning for state shelters

The social-services department must plan for goods, services, contracts, and storage needed at state shelters. Agencies must help, and the plan must be updated each November 1. After a state shelter opens, the department orders supplies for affected colleges and universities.

Better tracking for behavioral health funds

The law provides $770,000 each year for a computer system to track two behavioral health funding programs. It also provides $1.6 million each year for a data exchange used by Community Services Boards and the state behavioral health department. These systems do not change individual eligibility or payment amounts.

Coastal plan funded through credit line

The Department of Conservation and Recreation can use its authorized credit line to keep developing the coastal master plan, including hiring a consultant. Repayment must come from state revenue from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative allowance sales deposited in the Virginia Community Flood Preparedness Fund. The law states no amount for this use.

Community action agencies keep state funding

The Department of Social Services must continue funding from this budget item for organizations recognized as Virginia community action agencies. The law does not state the funding amount or create a direct household payment.

Cost test for child support contracts

Virginia cannot hire a private company or lawyer for child-support enforcement unless the Social Services Board finds in writing that the contract costs less than using state employees. The law does not change parents’ child-support obligations.

Courts can halt unsafe store sales

A locality can ask a court to temporarily stop alcohol or marijuana sales at a licensed place tied to frequent, serious crimes that threaten public safety. The locality’s chief law-enforcement officer must provide records supporting the request. The court must hold a hearing within 10 days after service. The order ends when the threat is gone or the state authority makes its final decision after an administrative hearing.

Culinary training for incarcerated people

Virginia provides $250,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a Department of Corrections culinary arts program. Participants learn to operate food services for agency staff and the public. The funding comes from revenue generated by the program, not direct household payments.

Cybersecurity checks for public agencies

The law provides $150,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Virginia National Guard Cyber Brigade to audit state agencies and local governments. The funding does not create a direct household service or payment.

DNA evidence notices for some people

The Forensic Science Board must notify people convicted in cases with files from 1973 through 1988 when the files contain evidence found possibly suitable and available for DNA testing. The notice must say whether the evidence was tested. The Department of Corrections provides current or last-known addresses.

Emergency agencies get response support

The state supports emergency management loans for response costs while agencies await expected reimbursements. It also funds information-system updates, vehicle financing, regional satellite communications, and staff radios. Dedicated funding supports mapping data for wireless 911 response. The loans must follow any applicable Governor’s executive order and may last more than 12 months; no loan amount is specified.

Emergency funds reserved for disaster recovery

Money transferred to Virginia’s emergency management department under the Governor’s authority must go into a special fund. The department can use that money only for disaster recovery. The law states no dollar amount.

Emergency shelters prepare for crises

The state must keep contracts ready for goods and services that emergency shelters may need. The contracts are used when a state emergency is declared and shelters are activated. The law does not state a funding amount or promise household payments.

Fewer cannabis charges trigger major penalties

Certain marijuana felonies and related conspiracies no longer count as listed acts for a criminal street gang determination. Marijuana receipts and quantities also no longer trigger the specified continuing-criminal-enterprise felony tiers. The listed thresholds for heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine remain.

Fewer drug-law penalties for marijuana cases

The law removes marijuana from several older drug-law definitions and offenses, including rules on paraphernalia, nuisance premises, and certain drug-fraud charges. It also opens a first-offender probation option to some people with prior marijuana cases, if they meet the other rules. Other controlled-substance laws remain in place.

Fire departments get equipment grants

The Department of Fire Programs can give grants to qualifying localities for breathing gear and other needed firefighter protection equipment. Grants must prioritize localities that meet specified financial-distress measures and show equipment need. They cannot replace existing locality support, and recipients must report how they use the money.

Flexible payments during 911 upgrade

During next-generation 911 planning and rollout, the Virginia 911 Services Board can reimburse wireless providers for certain service costs instead of call-delivery costs. The Board must still ensure needed 911 service and network goals are met.

Flood protection work at Lake Barcroft

Virginia provides nearly $1.5 million in FY2027 for engineering and construction on the Lake Barcroft Dam Flood Mitigation Project. The money goes to the local watershed district, not directly to households.

Forfeited assets fund investigations

The law requires the department to put qualifying assets seized by law enforcement and later forfeited by a state or federal court into the Investigation Fund. The fund pays investigation, enforcement, and equipment costs. The law does not state how much money will go into the fund.

Free legal help for conservation districts

Soil and water conservation districts and their directors can request free civil legal help from the Attorney General’s Office. The help can cover legal costs, but not damages. If the office cannot provide help and a district hires outside counsel as a result, the state reimburses those costs.

Funding for community support projects

The law provides $30,000 each year for the Community Resource Opportunity Project, $175,000 each year for Help Me Help You, and $500,000 each year for the REAL LIFE Initiative. The excerpt does not describe individual eligibility or direct payments from these programs.

Funding for court and care services

Virginia provides $730,788 in each of the first two budget years for placement and restoration services for juveniles found incompetent to stand trial. It also provides $50,000 each year for legal and medical examinations for people in the community who need guardianship services. Another $554,975 each year supports clinical evaluations and court testimony in sexually violent predator commitment and release cases.

Funding for FETCH a Cure

The state provides $75,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the FETCH a Cure program, using prison commissary commissions. The law does not describe the program's activities or provide direct household payments.

Funding for historic transportation reviews

The state provides $226,807 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for required historic-resource reviews of transportation projects. The money comes from the Highway Maintenance and Operating Fund and supports agency review work.

Funding for referendum advertising

The law provides $615,000 from the general fund in FY2027 for advertising about constitutional referenda covered by the listed 2026 laws. This funding does not make direct payments to households.

Funding for safety and oversight

The state sets aside $1.3 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for group violence intervention efforts defined in the budget. It also provides $968,555 each year for the Corrections Ombudsman’s office and the Corrections Oversight Committee.

Funding for Virginia government institute

The government provides the Virginia Institute of Government $183,306 in state funds and at least $283,500 in other funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The funding supports the institute and does not create a direct household payment.

Funding to carry out two laws

The law provides $137,500 in FY2027 and $110,000 in FY2028 to carry out two other 2026 laws. This budget provision does not describe what those laws change for households.

Grants for America 250 projects

The American Revolution 250 Commission must set grant rules and invite applications from state agencies, local governments, and nonprofit groups. Projects must be collaborative, high-impact, and focused on the ideals of the American Revolution. The law does not state the grant amounts.

Help connecting Bristow Manor to sewers

Virginia provides Prince William County $1 million in FY2027 to help connect Bristow Manor to the county wastewater system. The law does not state whether residents receive money or save on connection costs.

Help managing wildlife damage

The Commissioner must make an agreement with the federal government to establish and maintain a wildlife damage program. The Commissioner can also make agreements with others to control wildlife that threatens agricultural animals. The law does not state who qualifies for help or how much help is available.

Identification and safety for young inmates

The Department of Corrections must work with the Department of Motor Vehicles to provide identification cards to people in its facilities through DMV Connect. The Department must also keep a separate program for people under 18 who were tried and convicted as adults, apart from the general prison population.

Jail cost repayment for Nottoway

The state provides Nottoway County $390,939 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The county can seek quarterly repayment for qualifying costs of holding specified residents at Piedmont Regional Jail. The law takes effect July 1, 2026, and ends June 30, 2028.

Juvenile prosecution jobs continue

The law continues juvenile justice positions for Commonwealth’s attorneys. Recipients must annually certify that the positions mainly serve delinquency and domestic relations felony cases. The Compensation Board must reassign positions not used for those cases.

Limits on officials’ financing deals

Certain public officials and members of agency or institution governing bodies cannot take part in alternative financing deals that could create a conflict of interest. The restriction also covers their immediate family members.

Line of duty funds gain year-end balances

By June 30 each fiscal year, the law moves the year-end balance of a health benefits payment fund into the Line of Duty Death and Health Benefits Trust Fund. The transfer does not change who qualifies or the benefit amounts.

Local disability service boards allowed

A Virginia county or city can create a disability services board, alone or with another local government. Boards can advise state agencies and help local governments with disability information and referrals. Creating a board is optional, and the law sets no funding amount.

Local grants prepare emergency shelters

The state provides $2.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to help local governments prepare emergency shelters. It also provides $96,000 each year for a preparedness program, whose services and eligibility are not described. Emergency managers must seek proposals for satellite communications for rural first responders, but the law does not require a contract or service deployment.

Local help to remove abandoned vehicles

The law provides localities $391,500 in FY2027 and another $391,500 in FY2028 to dispose of abandoned vehicles. Residents do not receive direct payments under this provision.

Local opioid funds face audits

Cities, counties, and covered local governments must include opioid-abatement compliance in audits for fiscal years starting July 1, 2023. Audits also review compliance with Opioid Abatement Authority guidelines. The law does not set a direct household payment.

Local police enforce laws on campuses

A covered institution can adopt a resolution asking a neighboring locality to enforce state and local laws on its property. Once the locality’s governing body receives the resolution, the locality must enforce those laws there.

Localities get more for juvenile housing

The Department of Juvenile Justice reimburses localities $50 per day to house a juvenile committed to state custody. Payment starts after the department receives a valid commitment order and the other required information.

Localities keep prison utility payments

When the Department of Corrections closes a facility covered by a utility debt agreement with a locality, it must keep paying its agreed share. Payments follow the schedule in the existing agreement.

Longdale area joins state park

The Department of Conservation and Recreation can make an agreement with the U.S. Forest Service to operate Longdale Day Use Area as part of Douthat State Park. The law does not set aside funding or specify changes to visitor fees.

Loudoun County supports Sterling Foundation

Loudoun County receives $25,000 in FY2027 to support the work of the Sterling Foundation. The law does not say which services or household benefits the money will provide.

Lower costs for prison video visits

Virginia provides $250,000 from the general fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to expand and subsidize family video visits at secure correctional facilities. The law does not set a payment amount for families.

Military base land fund continues

Virginia continues a special fund for military base development and land-use mitigation through June 30, 2028. The program helps nearby local governments buy property or development rights and support compatible uses.

Military response costs get credit

The Department of Military Affairs can use a credit line of up to $5 million for actual State Active Duty response costs. It repays the money when it receives federal or other funds for those costs, excluding its own department funds.

More aid for Fairfax public libraries

The state adds $190,070 for the Fairfax Public Library System in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The money supplements the system’s state formula aid. It is not a direct household payment.

More beds for juvenile placements

The state provides about $3.9 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a juvenile community placement program. The funding must support at least 40 beds for juveniles committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice before release. The department must set guidelines for eligibility, length of stay, security, and services such as mental health and substance-use care.

More boating safety and access

Virginia spends $881,753 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 on boating-law enforcement, safety education, and better boating access. The funding supports programs and services, not direct household payments.

More care for historic cemeteries

Virginia provides $23,100 each year for Revolutionary War cemeteries and memorials. It also provides $250,000 each year to care for historic African American graves and cemeteries. Up to 5% of the latter funds can pay program costs, and grants must support the specified sites and care work.

More checks on commercial vehicles

Virginia provides about $4.8 million from the Commonwealth Transportation Fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for State Police enforcement at weigh stations. The funding supports checks on commercial vehicles subject to weigh-station rules.

More court help with records

The state provides $1,539,033 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to support automatic record clearing under two 2021 laws. It also provides $94,963 each year to implement Virginia’s Hope Card Program in circuit and district courts.

More crisis and wellness support

The law funds crisis-intervention training for officers and dispatchers and technical help for the MARCUS alert system. It also supports local jail diversion and behavioral-health planning, police training on dementia, officer wellness grants, and trauma support for first responders. The excerpt does not state a funding amount for the local behavioral-health partnership.

More education for people in prison

The Department of Corrections must assign programs that can include counseling, recovery training, health and technology skills, mental health support, relationship skills, and financial literacy. It must train qualified prisoners to teach and mentor in peer education programs. When practical and resources allow, programs must be available without a waitlist. Time in peer, group, or outside education programs counts toward required weekly participation hours.

More flexibility for prison maintenance funds

The Corrections Department can use part of its maintenance funds for changes needed to meet federal prison rape prevention requirements. It can also use current or past maintenance balances to support its capital infrastructure fund. The department must list these costs in its annual reports.

More flexible court and jail funding

The Compensation Board can use Trust and Agency funds for circuit court clerk-office automation beyond the current two-year appropriation. It can do so only when projected cash and revenue cover yearly costs and other approved commitments. The Board must also use local fiscal-stress factors to allocate approved equipment funds. For regional jails and special prosecutors, it uses the highest factor among member localities.

More flexible farm conservation grants

Virginia uses Soil and Water Conservation balances first for its federal conservation program match, followed by agricultural cost-share balances unless the budget says otherwise. Conservation staff can provide engineering help for farm projects. The state can also move grant money that districts cannot commit by June 15: 50% can go to any district, while the rest stays within the same watershed. Lawn care operators’ nutrient plans and yearly fertilizer reports remain voluntary.

More food for charity programs

The state puts $4.6 million into the Virginia Agriculture Food Assistance Fund in FY2027 and $1.6 million in FY2028. Grants support agricultural products for charitable food organizations. Household help depends on the food those groups provide.

More food purchasing access for food banks

Virginia must let nonprofit food banks operating in the state and holding federal tax-exempt status buy directly from the Virginia Distribution Center. The law does not promise lower prices or a specific benefit for households.

More funded jobs in local offices

Subject to General Assembly funding, the Compensation Board must authorize listed permanent positions in local offices for FY2027 and FY2028. The law states a total of 17,627 permanent positions, though the listed counts add to 17,556. It also allows 581 temporary positions in each year.

More funding for child-safety task force

The Northern Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force receives $1.45 million in nongeneral funds and $517,000 in general funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The money expands its work against internet crimes involving children; it is not a direct household payment.

More funding for corrections construction

The Department of Corrections receives $3 million in nongeneral funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for its Corrections Construction Unit. The special fund supports certain contract work for Department institutions and work for other agencies.

More funding for EMS background checks

The Virginia Rescue Squad Assistance Fund provides $190,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for national background checks. The checks cover people applying to serve as certified or non-certified providers at licensed emergency medical services agencies.

More funding for family support services

The law provides $1.2 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for wraparound services for low-income families served by United Community. It also funds Cornerstones family support services with $1.75 million in FY2027 and $1 million in FY2028. Cornerstones must report results each year. Both grants use TANF funds.

More funding for natural resources leadership

Virginia provides $100,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Virginia Natural Resources Leadership Institute. The appropriation supports the institute and does not set individual payments.

More funding for probation practices

The state provides $150,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 from the Drug Offender Assessment Fund for evidence-based practices in probation and parole districts. The funding supports district programs, not direct household payments.

More funding for public safety communications

The state provides $350,200 each year for two years to maintain its shared police communications system. It also provides $300,000 each year and four positions to support that system. Leftover bond proceeds for the state radio network can support military communications equipment after the network is fully implemented.

More funding for sex offender treatment

Virginia provides $242,923 and two staff positions in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Sex Offender Residential Treatment Program. The funding supports program operations, not direct payments to participants or households.

More funding for social equity research

Virginia provides $3 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for social equity research and programs. Virginia Commonwealth University must conduct research, work with Virginia Union University, expand leadership training, and increase racial-equity and social-justice resources.

More funding for tobacco law enforcement

The law pays 50% of specified enforcement costs from the Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Fund and 8.5% from the Virginia Tobacco Settlement Fund. The money supports enforcement of the state’s tobacco manufacturer requirements; it is not a direct household payment.

More funding for tobacco settlement enforcement

The law provides $300,000 in FY2027 and $300,000 in FY2028 for tobacco settlement enforcement costs. Private legal-service transfers need prior written approval from the Governor or Attorney General. Other enforcement transfers require the Attorney General’s request.

More funding for two local programs

Charlottesville receives $250,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Tonsler League programming. Fairfax County receives $450,000 in FY2027 and $200,000 in FY2028 for the Lorton Community Action Center. The law does not specify program activities or who qualifies for services.

More funding for Virginia land conservation

Virginia deposits $1.5 million in other funds into the Virginia Land Conservation Fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The Virginia Land Conservation Foundation distributes the money under state law. The funding does not set household grant amounts.

More funding for voter system replacement

Virginia can carry forward leftover funds to replace its voter registration system and support the state match for a federal election grant. After eligible federal funds and the first $2,035,142 state match are used, the Secretaries of Finance and Administration must approve further system-replacement spending.

More funding for water monitoring

The state funds the Clean Marina Program, Chesapeake Bay water monitoring, Elizabeth River assessments, and Potomac aquifer monitoring. The work supports water-quality education, testing, and research. These programs do not promise direct household payments or lower water costs.

More funding for water quality projects

Virginia funds water quality, stormwater, and environmental protection programs. It also supports algae cleanup and buoy upkeep at Lake Anna, water monitoring at Smith Mountain Lake, and plant restoration in Back Bay. These funds support projects and programs, not direct household payments.

More funding for wildlife and dam upkeep

The law provides $1.25 million in dedicated special revenue in FY2027 for the Wildlife Department’s maintenance reserve. It also provides $3.235 million from the general fund to repair and upgrade Lake Shenandoah Dam.

More funding for wildlife and waterways

The state provides $1,093,352 each year to manage natural area preserves and $400,000 each year for algae cleanup at Lake Gaston. It also provides $204,545 each year for a statewide freshwater mussel recovery plan. Oyster work receives $4 million each year, including $1.5 million for restoration; unspent oyster remediation funds carry forward to the Marine Resources Commission.

More funding for wildlife protection

The law directs quarterly transfers of up to $7.3 million in each budget year to the Game Protection Fund. The Governor may direct additional transfers only from collections above the official revenue forecast.

More funding for wireless 911 service

Virginia provides $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to improve the statewide E-911 network. It also provides $4 million each year for wireless 911 service costs. The Wireless E-911 Services Board must approve network improvement spending and decides which service costs receive support.

More funding to protect Virginia forests

Virginia provides about $488,000 in FY2027 and FY2028 for a hardwood forest habitat initiative. The Department of Forestry also receives $940,000 each year and two positions to control priority invasive species on public and private lands. The department must coordinate with state agencies and regional partners.

More funds for forest fires

When budgeted forest fire suppression funds are not enough, the law allows necessary funds to be transferred to the Department of Forestry. The Director of the Department of Planning and Budget must approve the transfer. No fixed amount is set.

More grants to preserve Virginia battlefields

Virginia provides $5.25 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for battlefield preservation grants. The Department can use up to 5% of the funding to run the program. The money does not go directly to households.

More grants to prevent hate crimes

Virginia provides $1.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for competitive hate-crime prevention grants. Eligible groups can seek funding for security, training, technology, and related needs. Applicants must document risks, goals, costs, and other committed funding. The Department may use up to $50,000 to publicize the grants.

More grants to stop online child crimes

Virginia provides about $3.1 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for the Southern Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Another $1.2 million each year supports law-enforcement grants to prevent these crimes. Task forces must report spending and results before yearly funds are distributed.

More help enrolling in Virginia programs

The state provides $594,713 in general funds and $4,734,573 in other funds each year for the Virginia Facilitated Enrollment Program. The law does not say which services people can enroll in or set an individual payment amount.

More help finding family services

Localities receive $401,475 from federal trust funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for individual and family services. The law does not state which households qualify or how much assistance any household receives.

More help for land and forests

The state provides $292,525 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for technical help with wildlife that can damage property or threaten farm animals. It also funds invasive species work with $485,000 and one staff position each year. Another $2,326,126 each year funds forest fire protection equipment.

More help for prison visits and faith services

The state provides $220,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for transportation and related services for families visiting people in Virginia prisons. It also provides $1.625 million each year to organizations that improve faith-based services for people in prison. Both appropriations come from prison commissary commissions.

More help for rural water projects

Virginia provides about $1.6 million in each of the first two years for rural water and wastewater work. The funds support the Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project’s operations and grants. The state pays each year’s amount in 12 equal monthly installments; the law does not set household grant amounts.

More help using state services

State agencies receive $2 million in FY2027 and $2 million in FY2028 to improve language access. The funding can help residents who need language assistance when using state services.

More improvements at veterans cemetery

The law provides $150,000 in federal trust funds in FY2027 for Dublin Veterans Cemetery. The work includes more cremation gravesites, irrigation, signs, landscaping, and other site improvements.

More improvements planned at Fort Monroe

The law provides $12.8 million in FY2027 to replace and upgrade utilities at Fort Monroe. It also provides $1.5 million for visitor amenities at the African Memorial Landing and $1.5 million for a plan for Fort Monroe’s public spaces. The plan must cover visitor needs, sea-level rise, environmental care, and the site’s future.

More judges and prosecutors in two counties

The state provides $9.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for additional Virginia Court of Appeals judges and staff. It also provides $270,970 each year to make the Bath and Highland County prosecutor offices full-time. The prosecutor funding begins July 1, 2025.

More mental health and medical care in prisons

Virginia funds 33 additional mental health positions in correctional facilities, with $2.4 million in state funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028. The state also includes $2.3 million in federal funds each year for medical costs of people in those facilities.

More money for Chesapeake Bay improvements

The state transfers $10 million from the Department of Motor Vehicles to the general fund in each year. Of that amount, $2,583,531 each year goes to a water-quality reserve for ongoing Chesapeake Bay and tributary improvements.

More money for corrections farm operations

The budget director can increase the Corrections Department’s budget for agribusiness equipment or facility repairs and construction. The increase can equal 50% of annual agribusiness deposits above the fiscal year 1992 level. It cannot replace the department’s regular general fund money.

More money for environmental work

The environmental agency can use available emergency-response fund money for costs tied to its waste, air, and water programs. Virginia also continues authorization for its share of the Money Point restoration project, with any remaining year-end balance carried into the next budget year. The law states no new amount for these provisions.

More money for local historic sites

The state funds local repairs and preservation at Nimmo United Methodist Church, Fairfax Courthouse, Fincastle Museum, Freedom House Museum, Dodona Manor, Andrew Johnston House, the Pocahontas Fuel building, and Moore Street School. Grants range from $50,000 to $2.5 million in FY2027. The Freedom House Museum grant requires a dollar-for-dollar match.

More money for sickle cell research

The state must transfer existing fund balances by August 1, 2026, to support the Florence Neal Cooper Smith Sickle Cell Research Endowed Chair. The law does not state the amount transferred.

More oversight of dams and conservation

Virginia can use fund interest to support two positions overseeing repairs and upkeep of district-owned dams. The state also uses interest from two funds to support five positions administering agricultural conservation cost-share programs. Excess interest transfers to a water-quality reserve each year, except when that reserve held at least $70 million at the end of the prior fiscal year. The state provides $15,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Rappahannock River Basin Commission, matched by participating localities and planning district commissions.

More oversight of foster care spending

Virginia must train local foster-care teams at least once each year and explain which costs local departments must cover. The state also dedicates 10 positions to review foster-care spending for state and federal compliance. Two staff members must work from each regional office, and these positions cannot do clerical, information technology, or quality work.

More oversight of state agencies

The State Inspector General’s Office investigates state and nonstate agency operations for possible fraud, waste, abuse, or corruption. It coordinates audit work and helps people understand their rights and complaint options. Investigations of elected officials for certain crimes require a request from the Governor, Attorney General, or a grand jury.

More patrols on busy highways

The state provides about $811,000 each year for eight State Police positions at the I-95/395/495 interchange. It also provides about $1.6 million each year for troopers in Highway Safety Corridors and $110,000 each year for overtime on Interstate 81 and other highways. The funding supports added patrols and traffic enforcement.

More planning for floods and climate

The state funds coastal flooding research and community resilience planning in FY2027 and FY2028, and George Mason University can host a State Climate Office. State agencies and a regional commission also run a three-year pilot studying elevated septic systems in parts of the Middle Peninsula. The pilot does not promise installation or financial help for property owners.

More pretrial services in two counties

The state provides $94,750 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to expand pretrial services in Botetourt and Alleghany Counties. The law does not set individual benefit amounts or eligibility rules.

More public access to online meetings

When a Virginia public body meets online under the covered law, it must post a recording or transcript on its website within the required time. Its board must share meeting minutes using the same method it used to give notice.

More public review of broadband grants

The state housing department must post broadband grant applications before approving projects. It must let people challenge claims that an area already has service. Quarterly reports are due within 30 days after each quarter, and a public dashboard covers grants from FY2022 onward.

More research on Bay fish and habitats

The state funds blue crab and menhaden research, bay-grass surveys, and research on oyster farming and eelgrass recovery. Menhaden research aims to support a scientifically based Chesapeake Bay harvest cap. Annual progress reports are due by October 1, and reports must address expected effects on workers.

More research on water and PFAS

The state provides $1.15 million in FY2027 for up to five groundwater research stations in Eastern Virginia. Any money left on June 30 carries forward for this work. The state also provides $500,000 in FY2027 for a study of PFAS disposal options, including environmental effects, costs, and effects on farmland benefits from biosolids.

More review of child welfare services

Virginia must hire an outside reviewer by August 1, 2026, to study how child-protection complaints are screened statewide. The law provides $1 million in state funds and $1 million in other funds in FY2027; the state can release only the amount needed after contract costs are documented. Another $500,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 supports new child welfare service models, with an annual report due by November 1.

More review of drug treatment courts

From July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, Virginia provides $157,828 in state funds and $17,493 in other funds each budget year to evaluate and monitor drug treatment courts. The law also authorizes two positions for this work.

More review of federal relief funds

The Secretary of Finance must arrange reviews of state agencies’ controls over federal relief, stimulus, and loan funds. The Secretary must consult with state auditors and report findings each year by November 1. The law does not change individual eligibility for federal funds.

More salary support for military staff

The Department of Military Affairs may use up to $500,000 from the Armory Control Board Fund for administrative staff salaries and related costs. The law does not guarantee an increase to any employee’s pay.

More security for prison phone systems

The state provides $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for security technology and equipment for the Department of Corrections’ inmate telephone system. The funding supports prison operations and does not specify a direct household benefit.

More services for abuse survivors

The law provides $1.25 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for services for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence. The services cover Winchester, Frederick County, Clarke County, and Warren County. The money comes from the TANF block grant.

More services for domestic violence victims

The law provides $75,000 in state funds and $400,000 in other funds each year for services for domestic violence victims. Services must follow Board of Social Services rules.

More services for trafficking victims

The law funds state coordination for trafficking responses, sexual-assault examiner coordination, and an online awareness course for hotel employees. It provides $400,000 in the first year for a safe-harbor pilot serving trafficked youth. It also funds trafficking awareness for alcohol licensees and support for the Virginia Victim Assistance Network. The excerpt does not state the hotel course's funding amount.

More shoreline erosion help

The state provides $200,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for technical help through Shoreline Erosion Advisory Services. The funding supports service capacity and does not provide direct payments to people who use the service.

More staff for health department audits

The Virginia Department of Health gets $300,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to hire at least two full-time staff. They support the department’s internal and information security audits.

More staff for invasive species work

The state provides $250,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for two additional staff positions and related costs for invasive species management.

More staff for Virginia prosecutors

The state provides about $8.9 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for prosecutor staffing. This funds 117 additional Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorneys and 18 paralegals. Localities must use some of the funding to add to, not replace, their own salary funds.

More State Police crime-fighting support

The law provides $772,760 and five positions in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a State Police database on organized retail crime. It also provides $1,620,857 in each year to finance three replacement State Police airplanes.

More state police medical flights

State police aviation med-flight operations receive $1,045,375 per year from the Virginia Rescue Squad Assistance Fund in FY2027 and FY2028. They also receive $2,052,723 per year from a separate emergency medical services fund.

More State Police training and prosecutor support

Virginia funds three State Police positions to share information with prosecutors, providing $278,976 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. That amount includes $65,207 each year for operating costs. The state also provides $1 million each year for drug-recognition training and $805,050 each year to support six positions for expanded impaired-driving training.

More support for child advocates

Virginia provides $4 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Court Appointed Special Advocate programs. If federal support falls or ends, the Governor may provide extra funds from unappropriated balances. That additional funding is not guaranteed.

More support for coastal and water research

Virginia provides $25,000 each year for marine animal rescue and $1.5 million each year for a coastal resilience institute. The budget also funds staffing, equipment, and services for an aquifer monitoring laboratory, but the provided text does not state that amount. These funds support rescue, coastal planning, and water monitoring, not direct household payments.

More support for conservation districts

Virginia provides $468,000 each year for district dam maintenance, at $4,500 per dam. It also provides $267,000 each year for conservation district services and puts $4 million into a conservation assistance program in FY2027. The law does not set individual household payments.

More support for environmental education

The state provides $250,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for competitive Chesapeake Bay education grants. It also provides $350,000 each year for two environmental education positions and $350,000 each year for two conservation district support positions. The grants go to organizations, and the positions support education programs and conservation districts.

More support for flood protection

The state deposits about $1.7 million into its dam and flood assistance fund in FY2027 and about $732,000 in FY2028. The Department of Conservation and Recreation can also use up to $60,000 from uncommitted fund balances to update and post the state flood plan online. It must maintain and update the plan using existing resources.

More support for flood warnings

The state provides $424,874 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Virginia’s flood observation and warning system. It also provides $1 million in each year to evaluate, upgrade, and maintain the system. These funds support system operations, not direct household payments.

More support for foster families

The social-services agency now takes reports of adult abuse and neglect through its existing toll-free child abuse hotline. It must negotiate adoption assistance agreements for local departments, while parents keep their appeal rights. Virginia also provides $300,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to help find relatives and close family connections for youth in foster care. State funds collected under the cited law support training for staff at assisted living facilities, adult day care centers, and child welfare agencies.

More support for historic preservation

The state provides $2 million in FY2027 for grants from Virginia’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Historic Preservation Fund. Grants must provide a lasting public benefit, and up to 5% of the allocation can cover administration. The state also provides $159,479 each year for underwater archaeology and $50,000 each year for Indigenous heritage work, including grants, training, and paid internships.

More support for kinship foster care

Virginia provides $360,000 each year for bonuses to local social-services departments. A department can receive up to $250 for each qualifying child placed with a relative or moved from a non-kinship placement to a relative. The state must keep seeking available federal funds for kinship navigator programs until those funds run out. It must also create a process for localities to make kinship care agreements with nearby states. A separate online pilot helps caseworkers match children in foster care with potential families, with $50,000 provided each year in FY2027 and FY2028.

More support for prescription monitoring

Virginia provides $400,000 in FY2027 and $400,000 in FY2028 to maintain changes to the state Prescription Monitoring Program. The money comes from opioid abatement funds and supports state program operations.

More support for specialty courts

The state provides $400,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for local drug court grants. Another $500,000 each year supports mental health court dockets in high-caseload areas. The state also provides $750,000 each year for specialty court programs.

More support for state parks

Virginia funds operations and public access at Breaks and Widewater State Parks. The law also pays for park signs and repairs the breach at Jones Pond in Caledon State Park. The money supports park services and projects, not household payments.

More support for State Police medical flights

The state provides about $3.1 million each year to support State Police medical-flight operations. Chesterfield County receives $450,000 each year for assigned paramedics and related flight costs. The state also provides $116,988 each year for State Police aviation operations and continues about $3.6 million each year to finance four helicopters.

More support for trails and memorials

The state provides $1 million in FY2027 to Vienna for the Washington and Old Dominion Trail Visitors Center. It also provides $160,000 for the September 11th National Memorial Trail Alliance and $1 million to help Arlington County build a visitor education center at the Pentagon Memorial.

More support for veterans’ programs

The law funds Angel Wings for Veterans and an assistant manager for the Virginia Women Veterans Program at $24,000 and $118,000 each year. It also provides $300,000 each year for services at Valor Farms and $25,000 in FY2027 for the Honor Guard Grant Program. Up to $100,000 can support the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, but only if at least half of other states make similar grants.

More support for Virginia arboretum

The state provides $304,927 in general funds and $53,189 in other funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The money supports the State Arboretum at Blandy Farm and does not create a direct household payment.

More support near military bases

The state provides $250,000 for mitigation near Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress and $200,000 near Joint Base Langley Eustis. Separately, Joint Base Langley Eustis receives $350,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for mitigation activities.

More training for crisis responders

The state provides $2.585 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for crisis-response training. It covers de-escalation and behavioral health laws. The state also provides $650,000 each year to support existing mental health dockets.

More training for safer schools

The law funds active-shooter training, school security officer training, and training for threat assessment teams. It also pays for a case-management tool, school safety training, and the School Climate Survey. Separate grants support statewide DARE administration, including $130,000 each year for the York County-Poquoson Sheriff's Office.

More training for volunteer firefighters

Virginia provides $123,100 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for modular training for volunteer firefighters. The funding supports the training program under the law.

More treatment and health oversight in prisons

The Department of Corrections gets $471,420 in each of FY2027 and FY2028, plus five positions, to carry out recommendations on sex-offender treatment access. The law also funds six monitors to review prison medical care. It provides $600,000 each year for the offender management system and $550,000 each year for correctional telemedicine, funded by inmate medical-service fees. Modernization plans must use phases or modules and provide data for program evaluation, including repeat offenses.

More treatment and monitoring after release

Virginia provides $4,659,066 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for services for people conditionally released from the sexually violent predator program. The money supports treatment and GPS monitoring. It does not create a direct household payment.

More treatment and reentry help in jails

Virginia funds opioid treatment, jail mental-health pilots, and reentry services. The budget provides about $1 million each year for opioid treatment and about $2.2 million each year for authorized pilots, including mental-health programs. Pilot grants last no more than two years, must add to local spending, and require a plan to continue after state funding ends. Other funding supports reentry services, including a Virginia Beach pathway for people with an active mental-illness or substance-use diagnosis.

More vaping education for young people

The Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth must focus its ads and education on vaping’s health effects for teens and young adults. Its efforts can include outreach and social media.

More water safety education

The law provides $500,000 in FY2027 to Virginia Beach for a water safety program. The YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsula must run the program together in their service areas.

New fund for cannabis equity programs

Virginia has created a fund for listed education, workforce, reentry, legal-defense, and cannabis-equity business-loan purposes. The law does not state how much money the fund will receive.

New funding for wetland mitigation

The state provides $750,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a wetland mitigation program and trading platform. The program must follow state wetland mitigation law. The funding supports program setup, not household payments.

New online services for environmental permits

Virginia's environmental agency can spend up to $600,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 on online services. The money comes from existing emergency-response fund balances and does not go directly to households.

New police standards and information tools

The law funds work on officer decertification, minimum academy training standards, and statewide security practices. It also supports a database for sharing officer information among agencies and a data analyst for the Community Policing Database. The listed annual funding is under $1 million for each of these efforts.

New process for sending WMATA funds

Virginia’s rail and public transportation department can send funds for WMATA directly to WMATA or to another transportation group with an agreement to fund it. The law also requires the Virginia Secretary of Transportation or a designee to be a principal member in Virginia’s WMATA board appointments.

New public safety data and alerts

Authorized public-safety systems can use data from the victim notification system for risk information and alerts. The Chief Data Officer and Compensation Board can access raw data under agreed terms, but raw data generally cannot leave the system. State Police can also give firearms dealers information about whether prospective buyers may legally possess or transport covered firearms; only authorized recipients can get that information.

New screening for some prison admissions

The Virginia Department of Corrections must screen covered people who may qualify for civil commitment as sexually violent predators. Screening must happen within six months of admission, and results go to the state behavioral-health commissioner each month.

New state offices in local communities

Virginia can enter long-term leases for listed motor vehicle, corrections, and health offices in specified communities. The leases need capital approval and must follow state guidelines. The law does not set lease amounts or change household eligibility for services.

New testing supports crash investigations

Beginning January 1, 2025, the Department of Forensic Science must screen certain DUI blood samples for drugs when they qualify for destruction. It must remove personal and case details first, then report overall results at least once a year. The department must also test blood from drivers killed in vehicle crashes for alcohol and drugs and report the results to the Chief Medical Examiner.

One app gathers missing-person alerts

State Police must create a phone app that brings together missing-person alerts and related information in one place. The law does not give a launch date or provide a direct payment.

Operating loan for wildlife agency

The Department of Wildlife Resources can receive an operating-deficit loan of up to $6.9 million. The loan supports the agency’s operations and is not available to households.

Parole board gets regular record updates

Beginning July 1, 2026, criminal history records for all state-responsible inmates must go electronically to the Virginia Parole Board every 30 days. The information supports parole decisions but does not change who is eligible or require a particular outcome.

Plans protect workers during center closures

When the Department of Juvenile Justice decides to close a state center for the stated reasons, it must work with affected localities to limit harm. Its plan must address employee placement and training and safely reduce the center’s population. The plan should allow at least 12 months between announcement and closure, but that timing is not required.

Police aid for Boones Mill

Boones Mill becomes eligible for police-related financial assistance. The law treats the town as having operated a police department since the 1980–82 budget period, but does not state the amount of aid.

Police records and investigations get support

The state funds State Police work on criminal-history checks, automatic record expungement, and cold-case investigations. It provides $211,947 and three positions each year for criminal-history checks, $438,464 and four positions each year for automatic expungement, and $301,194 each year for three cold-case investigators. State Police must also coordinate registry monitoring with other agencies, and its superintendent must train local police on registry rules.

Prison complaint records stay available

As Virginia prisons add tablets for inmates, the Corrections Department must keep the Ombudsman’s Office able to view complaint records. This includes complaints, responses, appeals, and related notes. The Office no longer has to create the specified statewide reporting system, but its other reporting duties remain.

Privacy rules for shooting commission findings

The Virginia Beach mass-shooting commission must make findings public in summary or combined form without identifying personal or health details. It can share identifying information when the affected person or a family member specifically authorizes it.

Private gifts protect War Memorial funding

Private gifts to the Virginia War Memorial Foundation cannot be used to reduce state funding for the Memorial. Gifts must follow donors’ wishes and support Memorial services. Gifts worth less than $5,000 may be approved by the Executive Director after consultation with two state officials.

Protected funding for prison education

The Department of Corrections cannot move money from its Instruction program to other programs. Unspent year-end balances must be set aside for one-time correctional education costs, such as equipment.

Public transportation grants increase

The law gives the Virginia Transit Association $500,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for competitive grants for public transportation. The funding comes from the TANF block grant.

Repairs at Bon Air juvenile center

The law sets aside the Department of Juvenile Justice’s share of central maintenance-reserve funds for facility needs at Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center. It does not state the amount.

Review of forensic testing cases

The Virginia State Crime Commission must review cases involving Mary Jane Burton’s testing or analysis, working with a forensic science advisory committee. It must report case and suspect counts by the first day of each General Assembly session until the review is complete.

Richmond gets help demolishing Coliseum

The government provides $15 million in FY2027 to help the City of Richmond demolish the Richmond Coliseum. This is project funding, not a household payment.

Safer traffic in the Capitol complex

The Department of General Services and DCP control traffic and rights-of-way in the Capitol complex. This supports traffic, pedestrian safety, and security work in that area.

Safety work near Richmond courts building

The state can add safety and security work near the Commonwealth Courts Building. Richmond must provide easements without charge and cooperate without spending city funds. Permanent changes to streets need prior approval from the city’s chief administrative officer.

Septic system checks in Bay regions

Virginia provides about $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a Chesapeake Bay septic system pilot. Local health departments oversee pump-outs and inspections and build related databases in the Eastern Shore, Middle Peninsula, and Northern Neck.

State agencies support shooting commission

The Office of the State Inspector General must staff the Virginia Beach mass-shooting commission, and state agencies must help when asked. The commission’s funding can transfer to the Office only after the commission chairman requests it and the budget director approves.

State cannot sell protected underwater lands

The Governor cannot sell or transfer the underwater state lands identified in the 2006 Acts of Assembly. The ban does not cover land that was filled before January 1, 2006.

State devices get stronger safeguards

Virginia's Chief Information Officer and Comptroller must set rules for state work devices. The rules cover device assignment, safe use, monitoring, and removal of sensitive information when a device is no longer used. Agencies must justify device costs or document a public-health, welfare, or safety need.

State funds tobacco law enforcement

Virginia sets aside $738,536 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to enforce the tobacco settlement and state tobacco laws. Two state tobacco funds repay the general fund for settlement-enforcement costs. Households do not receive direct payments under this provision.

State help for Bristol landfill issues

The state environmental agency must help Bristol address health, environmental, and quality-of-life issues at its landfill. It must also help develop a long-term plan for the landfill after mitigation is complete. The law sets no household payment or funding amount.

State office supports violence prevention

Virginia creates the Office of Safer Communities and provides $900,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. At least $400,000 each year supports a university contract for planning, evaluation, and new approaches. The office must have staff for community outreach and for research and evidence.

State Police get more staff and equipment

The state directs $900,000 each year for two years to State Police from the Motor Carrier Special Fund. It also funds recruitment advertising, a second Special Operations Division, an aviation mechanic in Abingdon, and patrol-vehicle replacements. Positions transferred to the new division must be backfilled in the Sixth Division.

State Police update systems and services

Virginia provides about $1.5 million each year for State Police to carry out the Community Policing Act. The state also provides about $19.5 million each year for a second phase of State Police technology upgrades and related costs.

State seeks money for coal cleanup

The Virginia Department of Energy must seek available federal or other outside funds for coal waste cleanup in the coal fields region. It must report its efforts and any money found by November 1 each year. The law provides no cleanup funding itself.

Study of Chincoteague Inlet widening

Virginia provides $1.5 million in FY2027 as its share of a federal study of why Chincoteague Inlet is widening and possible solutions. The money funds a study, not construction work or household payments.

Study preserves Central State Hospital records

The state may use $150,000 in FY2027 carryforward funds for a study of Central State Hospital’s historic records. The study covers storage locations, renovation needs, operating needs, and long-term preservation. The Governor must approve the funding.

Vehicle-fee funds support emergency services

Funds distributed under the specified vehicle-fee provision can go only to nonprofit emergency medical services organizations. The Virginia Department of Health must also make timely quarterly $4.25 for Life distributions to the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads. The law does not state a total funding amount.

Veterans get more court support

The Office of the Executive Secretary must promote local training with the Veterans Docket Advisory Committee and the Department of Veterans Services. The training helps courts identify veterans in custody or facing charges and promotes veteran-focused court and reentry programs. The law sets no funding amount.

Virginia Beach shooting review gets funding

The law funds a 22-member commission to investigate the May 31, 2019, Virginia Beach shooting and recommend ways to reduce the risk of similar events. The commission receives $38,512 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. It does not provide direct household payments.

Funding for tobacco retailer inspections

Virginia provides $101,970 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for tobacco retailer compliance inspections. The inspections are performed under contract with the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority.

Hemp products face tighter THC limits

Covered retail hemp products cannot contain more than 0.3% total THC or more than 2 milligrams per package. Sellers cannot offer products shaped like or showing a person, animal, vehicle, or fruit. The Board’s handling, container, label, and seal rules also cover regulated hemp products.

Limits on local access to tax forms

Since January 1, 2016, the Virginia Department of Taxation has been barred from giving local officials certain federal tax forms or Virginia Schedule 500FED. The Department can provide them when they are attached to an electronically filed Virginia income tax return.

Marijuana buyers face sales and ad limits

Retail marijuana buyers must be at least 21, and a store cannot sell more than two ounces to one person in a transaction. Stores face limits on delivery locations and sales to people who are intoxicated or buying unlawfully for someone under 21. Outdoor ads generally cannot be within 500 feet of listed properties, and business signs cannot appeal to people under 21 or draw undue attention.

More checks on nicotine sales

The law provides $150,000 in FY2027 for unannounced checks of certain nicotine-product retailers. The checks verify that products are not sold to people under 21. The money comes from a state fund transferred from the Attorney General’s office.

More enforcement against illegal alcohol shipments

The law provides $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for enforcement against unlawful alcohol shipments into Virginia by unlicensed businesses and fulfillment centers. It creates no new personal duty for households.

More funding for consumer enforcement

Virginia provides $1.25 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a consumer enforcement and litigation fund. The fund supports specified enforcement work and legal costs. Any year-end balance above $1.25 million goes to the general fund.

More public information on child facilities

Virginia must post information about applications, denials, provisional licenses, inspections, and investigations for covered residential facilities for children. Inspection and investigation reports must appear within seven days and remain online for at least six years.

More youth vaping prevention and enforcement

The state provides $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a youth vaping prevention campaign. It also authorizes $1.825 million each year for the Attorney General’s Office to start vaping-related enforcement work. The enforcement funds must support implementation of two named 2026 laws.

New safety training for assisted living managers

Virginia’s social-services department must train new assisted living facility owners and managers. The training covers health, safety, and resident rights.

Public access to historic hospital records

Virginia’s behavioral health department must preserve historic microfiche records at Central State Hospital. Researchers and other interested people can access the records.

Virginia limits synthetic THC sales

Virginia treats the sale of certain synthetic THC products meant to be eaten or inhaled as an unlawful consumer practice. The rule has exceptions for specified FDA-approved products and conduct allowed under the Cannabis Control Act.

Youth vaping cases fund prevention

Money from certain cases involving youth-focused vaping claims goes into a state fund. The fund supports efforts to prevent and reduce young people’s use of vaping and related nicotine products. The law sets no dollar amount.

Funding keeps wireless 911 centers running

Virginia provides $3.7 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to help local dispatch centers answer wireless 911 calls. The funding offsets operating and related costs and supports access to emergency response services.

More checks on drinking water samples

The Virginia Department of Health gets $1.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to check that waterworks samples reflect actual water quality and conditions.

New technology for child support services

Virginia provides about $15.9 million in nongeneral funds each year to design and build a modern child-support system. The funding does not change how much families pay or receive.

Annual public reports on SNAP accuracy

Virginia’s social-services agency must publish statewide and local SNAP payment error rates by June 30 each year. The rates cover the previous federal fiscal year and use federal measurement methods. This changes public reporting, not who qualifies or how much people receive.

Easier access to state benefit information

Virginia funds the Facilitated Enrollment Program with $54,309 in state funds and $162,926 in other funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028. The statewide 2-1-1 service receives $936,149 in state funds and $1,331,847 in other funds each year to help people find community resources, including child care information. State agencies must keep child and family service listings accurate and report changes during the year. The law does not change benefit eligibility or payment amounts.

Free online training for care providers

Since July 1, 2015, Virginia’s behavioral health department has been barred from charging Community Services Boards or private providers to use its online knowledge center training system. The rule lowers costs for those organizations, not directly for households.

Funding keeps poison centers available

Virginia provides $2.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for two poison control centers. Each year includes $875,000 in general funds and $1.625 million in other funds. The money supports poison-control services, not direct household payments.

Higher payments for sexual assault exams

The SAFE Payment program must seek funding to raise the payment cap for acute forensic exams by sexual assault nurse examiners to 60% of the exam’s actual cost. The program may also use funds to expand forensic nursing, including in underserved communities. The 60% level is a goal, not a guaranteed payment rate.

Medicaid billing for eligible inmates

Virginia agencies must continue working to enroll inmates who qualify for Medicaid. When possible, agencies must identify them before a hospital stay. Providers bill the Medicaid agency, rather than the Department of Corrections, for eligible inmates’ inpatient care.

Medicaid payments support Eastern Virginia care

Old Dominion University must transfer funds to cover the state share of Medicaid payments to physicians and affiliated teaching hospitals in Eastern Virginia. The payments support physician and hospital access, including managed-care payments. Transfers must follow federal rules, and the law does not set a dollar amount.

Medical priority for prison intake

When safe and suitable state housing is available, the corrections director must prioritize people treated for HIV or Hepatitis C and people with mental illnesses requiring medication. Bed use must remain consistent with inmate and staff safety.

More addiction treatment in jails

Virginia adds $1 million to a fund for substance-use treatment and transition services in jails. The law does not set individual eligibility rules or a per-person benefit amount.

More autism resources for families

Virginia provides $190,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to continue and expand the Virginia Autism Resource Center. It also provides $250,000 in FY2027 for an autism community hub in Henrico County. These funds support community services, not direct household payments.

More behavioral health care capacity

Virginia may place proceeds from surplus land sales at covered state facilities into a trust fund for restructuring, continuing patient services, and improving behavioral-health and disability services. Appropriated money may also support community housing for people served by the department, and unspent amounts carry forward. At the start of each fiscal year, the state must set each facility’s capacity and notify sheriffs when a facility is full. The state must also seek partnerships and develop incentives to maintain acute psychiatric beds for children and teens; the law sets no bed target or funding amount.

More behavioral health help for seniors

Virginia provides $1,026,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for geriatric behavioral health specialists. It also provides $3,647,000 each year for services that help people with dementia avoid state facility care or leave facilities. Priority goes to people who otherwise would be served by state facilities.

More behavioral health service support

Virginia can award contracts for its psychiatric emergency program without the usual competition rules. The state can also start a bidding process to expand recovery residences and use up to $500,000 in unused trust funds for brain and spinal cord injury research. Mobile crisis units can satisfy community care team requirements.

More care options in rural areas

Virginia provides $190,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for care in rural and medically underserved areas. It also provides $690,000 each year to match a federal rural-health grant and $164,758 each year for rural medical training sites in Southwest Virginia. The state funds statewide telehealth planning with $60,000 each year. The health commissioner must develop ways to deliver dental care in underserved areas, but the law does not guarantee a visit.

More care through safety-net clinics

Virginia provides $5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for free clinics offering medical, dental, vision, behavioral-health, and other care. Another $175,000 each year supports free-clinic access, and $175,000 each year supports community health centers. Primary-care grants receive $5,230,571 each year and must be matched with local public and private resources. Medication assistance gets $1.35 million each year for outreach and $150,000 for existing program locations. The law does not set a per-patient payment or eligibility formula.

More day services for adults with disabilities

Virginia provides $500,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for SPARC day programs. The programs serve adults with profound disabilities. The funding supports services, not direct payments to participants.

More funding for cancer and hospice care

The Hampton Roads Proton Beam Therapy Institute receives about $1.6 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to support cancer treatment. Capital Caring Health receives $900,000 in FY2027 and $300,000 in FY2028 for inpatient hospice and palliative care at its Adler center in Aldie. These grants support services but do not set patient payments or general eligibility rules.

More funding for community health programs

Virginia provides $125,000 in each of the first two years for telehealth and telemedicine needs in Planning Districts 1 and 2. The state also provides $1.25 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for community health programs with Sentara Healthcare and Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University. The law does not specify individual services or payment amounts.

More funding for health prevention campaigns

The state provides $900,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a campaign to prevent underage cannabis use. It also directs 8.5% of Virginia’s tobacco settlement allocation to the Virginia Tobacco Settlement Fund. The fund receives an estimated $10.35 million each year, including at least $1 million each year for obesity prevention.

More funding for opioid response planning

The state provides $105,115 in FY2027 and $105,115 in FY2028 for work on an opioid-response plan. The money supports planning, not a direct household payment.

More grants for certified recovery homes

Virginia provides $1.95 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for grants to recovery residences certified by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. Grantees must follow their agreements and submit monthly financial and service records.

More health data sharing for care

The state must plan a statewide health information exchange with secure data sharing to support care and reduce duplicate tests and procedures. The plan must prioritize hospital admission data. The state also provides $50,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to share non-fatal overdose information with the Prescription Monitoring Program.

More help paying for sexual assault exams

Virginia transfers up to about $6.6 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to support the Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Payment program. The money supports program administration and reimbursement for covered exams. The law does not set an individual survivor’s reimbursement amount.

More local help with food and essentials

Virginia provides $400,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for food, clothing, and basic essentials through Buffalow Family and Friends. It also funds local food assistance in Loudoun County and food rescue and distribution in Northern Virginia. The law does not set individual benefit amounts.

More mental health first aid training

Virginia provides $600,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for mental health first aid training. The funding covers staff, training, manuals, and certification to help people recognize and respond to mental or emotional distress.

More opioid overdose response support

Virginia funds opioid reversal drugs, test kits, and related tracking software with $5,464,145 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Other funding provides $1,600,011 each year, subject to available federal money, and $1.3 million each year from the general fund. The state sets aside $1 million each year for eight-milligram naloxone nasal spray and $100,000 each year for public schools. Health agencies must also issue safety guidelines for certain long-acting opioid medicines, including guidance on overdose-reversal drugs for family members or caregivers.

More opioid prevention for young people

Virginia transfers $500,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to support opioid education and prevention. The money funds a marketing campaign and classroom programs. It does not provide direct household payments.

More paths for supported employment providers

Virginia recognizes certain professional certifications as alternatives to competency requirements for supported employment staff in developmental disability Medicaid waiver programs. Some Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services vendors also qualify through national three-year accreditation. The law changes provider qualification paths, not household Medicaid eligibility or payments.

More privacy for Medicaid drug data

The law requires Medicaid 340B data to remain confidential. DMAS and others handling the data can use it only for program integrity, rebate administration, and policy review. This rule does not change Medicaid eligibility, benefits, or household costs.

More public health campaign funding

Virginia provides $75,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for health advertising, including childhood immunizations. The Outdoors Advertising Association must add $225,000 each year. The contract must set the ads, campaign length, and health topics.

More staff for crisis care units

Virginia provides $2.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Community Services Boards to hire staff at crisis stabilization units. The money targets units with unused beds because of staff shortages.

More staff for disease outbreak response

Virginia provides about $5.8 million in FY2027 and $6.1 million in FY2028 for core public health work. Each year, about $4.6 million supports state epidemiology positions that identify, track, and help stop HIV/AIDS, measles, and other infectious disease outbreaks.

More support coordinating autism services

Virginia provides Commonwealth Autism Services $940,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to coordinate services related to autism assessments and care. The law does not set a household payment or individual benefit amount.

More support for behavioral health

The state identifies at least 10 acres at Eastern State Hospital for a new Colonial Behavioral Health facility and transfers the land to James City County under terms agreed by the parties. The state also funds crisis team training and law-enforcement diversion with $657,648 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Programs serving rural communities receive priority. DBHDS must monitor credentialed recovery homes and keep its public list current.

More support for health care staffing

Virginia provides $100,000 in FY2027 for behavioral health workforce development. It also provides $364,060 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for software that helps state hospitals schedule nursing shifts.

More support for health prevention and quality

Virginia provides at least $148,577 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for diabetes education. It also provides $600,000 each year for preventive-care grants, including testing for sexually transmitted infections and cancer screening. Other funding supports health-care research and administration of intermediate discipline options for listed providers. The law does not set a direct payment or patient benefit amount.

More support for hospital discharge planning

The state provides $1.5 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to help private hospitals plan discharges for patients with significant needs. The funding supports timely transitions from hospital care and can help increase state-hospital capacity. It does not provide direct patient payments.

More support for maternal health

Virginia funds perinatal care work with $124,470 a year from the general fund and $82,980 a year from other funds in FY2027 and FY2028. Another $315,000 each year supports efforts to reduce maternal deaths and illness. The law also provides $1 million each year for Resource Mothers and $3.2 million each year for community health workers, prioritizing districts serving areas with the highest maternal death rates. Maternal mental-health grants receive $500,000 each year; eligible groups serve people in health-care deserts or low-income communities, or have annual revenue under $5 million.

More support for recovery services

Virginia provides $120,000 in FY2027 and $455,000 in FY2028 for recovery residence standards and a complaint process. It also provides $100,000 each year for On Our Own’s no-charge peer recovery center. Federal grant reductions can lower the separate $750,000 annual allocation for consumer-directed mental health programs.

More support for veterans care centers

Virginia provides $2,208,000 in FY2027 for maintenance at state veterans care centers. It also provides $7,509,785 in FY2027 to operate Puller Veterans Care Center. Unspent operating funds carry forward for the center instead of returning to the general fund.

More treatment beds for juveniles

Virginia must seek partnerships and create incentives for residential treatment beds for juveniles with behavioral health needs. This includes short-term crisis beds that do not require psychiatric hospitalization. The law sets no bed target or funding amount.

More work paths for care facilitators

Virginia removes the associate’s or bachelor’s degree requirement for consumer-directed services facilitators. Work experience must count as a sufficient qualification. The law does not directly change Medicaid members’ benefits or costs.

New rules for Medicaid pharmacy benefits

DMAS must seek bids by January 1, 2027, for one company to manage all Medicaid pharmacy benefits and award a contract by July 1, 2027. Bidders must meet ownership and financial rules. Medicaid also repays pharmacies for covered vaccines. For fee-for-service members, payment includes the vaccine cost and an administration fee capped at $16; for children eligible for Vaccines for Children, it covers only the administration fee. These are provider payment rules, not direct payments to members.

Risk-based checks at adult care facilities

Virginia’s Department of Social Services must use a risk tool to guide enforcement at licensed adult care facilities. The tool covers possible penalties, license actions, court orders, extra inspections, and closer oversight. The law gives no separate funding amount for this requirement.

State collects prescription drug prices

The Virginia Department of Health gets $393,801 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to collect prescription drug price data. The funding does not directly change drug prices.

Stronger Medicaid payment oversight

After a final agency decision, Virginia must recover a Medicaid provider overpayment, even if the provider disputes it. Interest starts when the decision becomes final. Federal approval is required for funding that supports Virginia’s statewide health claims database, which receives $87,500 in state funds and $262,500 in other funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028.

Emergency housing for released juveniles

The state provides $240,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for emergency housing for juveniles leaving Department of Juvenile Justice custody. The Department sets rules for choosing placements and maximum lengths of stay. The appropriation does not set a payment for each household.

Grants strengthen homelessness agencies

Virginia provides $1.675 million in FY2027 and $675,000 in FY2028 to agencies that coordinate services for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Grants can support crisis-response systems, reporting, staff training, and essential operations.

Housing plans for people with serious mental illness

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development must develop and carry out housing strategies for people with serious mental illness. The work may explore Medicaid funding and must involve state agencies and stakeholders. The department reports each year on its plans and progress. This provision does not itself create a housing benefit or change Medicaid coverage.

More help enforcing fair housing rules

Virginia provides $250,000 in the first year to support statewide fair housing education and outreach. The funding also supports investigations and enforcement of housing discrimination claims. It does not set household payments.

More housing support for mental health

The law provides Community Services Boards with funds to repay Virginia Housing for principal and interest on qualifying residential projects. Projects must serve people with mental illness and be financed by Virginia Housing. The law does not state a dollar amount or provide direct payments to residents.

More resources for rural water projects

Virginia’s housing department must combine any funding for safe drinking water and wastewater projects in the Lenowisco, Cumberland Plateau, or Mount Rogers planning districts with other available resources. These can include state and federal funds, local contributions, and private or nonprofit resources. The provision does not state the funding amount or guarantee a household benefit.

A recovery school for Region 1 students

The law provides Chesterfield County Public Schools $500,000 in FY2027 and $500,000 in FY2028 to help establish a year-round recovery high school. It serves eligible high school students in Superintendent’s Region 1 who are in the early stages of recovery from substance use disorder or dependency. The school provides academic, emotional, and social support.

Changes to school funding rules

For the Bedford County and Bedford City school division consolidation, the state uses the lowest earlier local funding index for 15 years starting in FY2014, unless a lower index is calculated for the combined division. Unused money in the state education technology fund must be shared with localities for approved school technology plans. The General Fund also covers any shortfall in scheduled payments on certain school authority bonds when Literary Fund money is not enough.

Changes to school staffing and testing

The Board of Education must consider adding instructional positions and caseload rules for blind and visually impaired public school students. The Department of Education no longer has to give the Stanford 9 test, but the law does not stop it from giving the test or name a replacement.

Emergency changes to unemployment programs

During a health emergency crisis, the Governor can change how Virginia administers unemployment compensation to address the crisis. The law does not specify changes to benefit amounts or a funding amount.

Governor’s schools track access and diversity

Each Virginia Academic Year Governor’s School must set goals for student and faculty diversity and make a plan with community partners at public meetings. Schools must post the plan online and submit a report to the Governor by October 1 each year. Reports cover access, outreach, demographics, and students’ economic backgrounds.

Lower school loan rates after index falls

A consolidated school division gets a lower Literary Fund loan interest rate for the rest of the loan term when its composite index falls during the applicable 15-year period and qualifies it for that lower rate. The change lowers borrowing costs for qualifying school divisions.

More arts and history learning

The law funds arts, music, public media, and history education for students and teachers. It provides $1.6 million each year for Wolf Trap programs, including early literacy and STEM arts, and $125,000 each year for Holocaust education. It also funds educational outreach by Blue Ridge PBS and PBS Appalachia.

More career learning for students

The state provides $41,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for Hanover’s regional summer career and technical school. It also provides $308,655 each year for school grants that help standard diploma graduates take workplace-readiness or other industry-certification tests. The grants go to school divisions, not directly to students.

More career training for students

The law funds career and technical education, student career groups, and job skills programs at schools and regional centers. Rockingham County Public Schools receives $4.1 million in FY2027 for career training and equipment. Other grants support regional centers, trades equipment, firefighting training, and a study of a possible biomedical sciences high school.

More college credit support for veterans

The state provides $460,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for an application that helps veterans seek college credit for prior learning. The law does not set an individual payment or a specific tuition-savings amount.

More early-childhood family support

The Virginia Early Childhood Foundation receives $1.25 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for family information and partnerships with early-childhood providers. The support promotes young children’s health and readiness for school. The state sets a goal of one local public or private dollar for each state dollar, and the Foundation must report on its progress and finances.

More funding for Achievable Dream

The law provides $500,000 in FY2027 and $500,000 in FY2028 for the Achievable Dream partnership with Newport News School Division. It also provides the same amounts for the partnership with Virginia Beach School Division. The appropriations support the school partnerships, not direct payments to families.

More funding for adult GED programs

The law provides about $2.4 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for Race to GED. This includes $465,375 each year for PluggedIn VA. The money supports adult learners but does not set direct payments to participants.

More help with unemployment claims

The Virginia Employment Commission must keep at least two full-time employees in its unemployment ombudsman office. The Commission must also publish activity updates every three months. The law does not specify a funding amount or guarantee a particular service outcome.

More school planning and learning grants

The law funds school-division grants for extended school years, new learning programs, active learning, and outdoor classrooms. Extended-program planning grants total $613,312 each year, with awards capped at $50,000. Most divisions must provide a 20% match, but certain divisions serving low-performing schools are exempt.

More school programs and career training

The law provides $1.8 million each year for vocational-technical equipment, plus about $1.8 million each year for industry certification programs. It also funds Project Graduation, alternative education, and inclusive school programs. The money supports schools and students; it does not set direct payments to families.

More school resources and materials

The Department of Education can sell resources it develops to out-of-state buyers and in-state for-profit groups. It must use net proceeds to develop resources for Virginia public schools, and licensing agreements need approval from the Secretary of Administration. The state also funds free career and technical education materials for all school divisions, providing $498,021 in each of FY2027 and FY2028.

More school support and teacher grants

The law adds school support programs, including $71,849 each year for Van Gogh Outreach and $2,004,400 each year for Communities in Schools. It also provides $1,598,000 each year for grants that help schools use positive behavior programs. Statewide nonprofits linked to established national professional groups can apply for teacher-training funds, and state officials can apply for grants for local schools. Grant applications do not guarantee an award.

More science and digital learning

The law funds school science, technology, engineering, and math programs, computer science education, and online learning content. At least half of STEM team grant money should go to schools where at least 60% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. A separate $200,000 grant supports equipment for a mobile cyber education bus.

More support for adult literacy

The state provides $125,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for adult literacy programs at Mountain Empire Community College. It also provides $100,000 each year for Virginia Literacy Foundation grants, including programs for adults with reading skills from the 0th through 9th grades. The money funds services, not direct payments to adult learners.

More support for children and youth

The law provides $250,000 each year to expand the Milk and Cookies program for children of incarcerated parents. It also provides $200,000 in FY2027 for mentoring young men and added services for underserved youth. The provisions fund services, not direct household payments.

More support for early education

The law provides $250,000 each year for local partnerships that support young children’s readiness for school. It also provides $1 million each year for scholarships to build skills among early education workers. The law does not set individual scholarship amounts or family payments.

More support for mental health jobs

The state provides $1.675 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for work to remove barriers to mental health jobs. The funding includes supervision hours for people pursuing social work and counseling degrees. The law does not set an individual payment amount or eligibility rules for trainees.

More support for teacher mentors

The state provides $1 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for local mentor teacher programs. It also provides $318,750 each year for Clinical Faculty programs and $279,983 each year for mentors of new teachers using the alternative licensure route. Clinical Faculty grants require a local or school match equal to 50% of the state grant.

More support for Virginia teachers

The law funds help with test fees and tutoring for provisionally licensed minority teachers seeking full licensure. It also funds teacher license application services and support for school divisions facing hiring and retention challenges, including shortages of middle-school math teachers. School personnel receive evaluation training as divisions move teachers and principals to annual contracts. These programs support educators and schools; they do not promise every teacher a payment.

More vocational classes for former offenders

The state provides $500,000 in FY2027 and $500,000 in FY2028 for vocational and educational classes at the Judge Swett Learning Center. The programs serve people seeking those services, including former offenders.

More youth mentoring and school support

The law provides $2 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for youth mentoring and prevention programs. It also provides $450,000 each year for a Portsmouth program that helps prevent student suspensions and dropouts. The funding comes from the federal TANF block grant.

New administrative powers for Richard Bland

The law allows the College of William and Mary to extend certain administrative powers to Richard Bland College. Any extension must follow the colleges’ management agreement and related memorandum. The change does not directly alter student aid or tuition.

New rates for school communications

State officials must negotiate rates for communications lines used by public schools for educational technology. The State Corporation Commission is encouraged to make intrastate service discounts for schools and libraries as large as it prudently can. The law does not set a discount or rate amount.

New rules for Virginia public schools

Every Virginia school division must assess kindergarten students each school year using the state readiness model. The state must train local teams on rules for certain special-education services, including which services local school divisions still pay for. The Department of Education must also issue guidance by July 1, 2027, on using existing funds for transition services. A voluntary, anonymous survey will track school teaching conditions every two years, with results reported yearly.

Petersburg gets aquaponics school funding

Petersburg receives $1.35 million in FY2027 to develop an aquaponics food, education, and research facility. The money can support planning, design, staffing, and pilot programs with three city public schools. Unspent funds carry forward for the same purpose.

Planning for school buildings and funding

The Department of Education must maintain a tool that helps school boards assess building age and needed maintenance funds. It must report the data each year and can transfer appropriated funds to the Department of General Services to build the tool and collect data. The law also provides $1 million in FY2027 and $250,000 in FY2028 to develop a new school funding formula; a majority of both House and Senate subcommittee members must approve the request for proposals.

Public colleges report on free speech

Virginia public four-year colleges, Richard Bland College, and the Virginia Community College System must include commitments to free speech and academic freedom in their six-year plans. They must also report each year on related policies, incidents, and statistics from the prior academic year.

Research on treatment for veterans

The state provides $1 million each year for research on a brain-stimulation treatment for veterans, first responders, and law-enforcement officers. The funding supports research; it does not guarantee that any individual will receive treatment.

Safer community college campuses

Virginia provides $7.48 million in FY2027 for Phase I life-safety and security upgrades across Virginia Community College System campuses. The funding does not create direct household payments.

School grants for cardiac emergency plans

Virginia provides $500,000 in FY2027 for grants to high-need public elementary and secondary schools. Schools can use the money to buy automated external defibrillators and develop or carry out cardiac emergency response plans.

Schools teach risks of tobacco and marijuana

Virginia public schools must teach students about the health and safety risks of retail tobacco and smoking hemp products. The Department of Education must also provide or develop teaching materials about youth marijuana harms and substance abuse. Teachers must be able to use those materials by July 1, 2027.

Schools test artificial intelligence tools

The state provides $2 million in FY2027 for the Department of Education to run an artificial intelligence education pilot and develop guidelines. The money may support software, programs, and training. Unspent funds carry forward for the same purpose in FY2028.

State agencies review worker injury records

The Department of Human Resource Management reviews state agencies’ workers’ compensation histories each year. Agencies with higher-than-normal losses must join a loss-control program and cooperate with the review.

Agencies can replace invalid payments

If a court or the Attorney General formally finds a payment unconstitutional, the agency can use the same budget money to buy similar goods or services. The purchase must follow state procurement rules and be constitutionally allowed.

Agencies weigh consulting value

State agencies and public colleges must consider whether consulting contracts are worth their cost. The law does not set a savings target or promise that the government will save money.

Better internet at forestry offices

The Department of Forestry receives $175,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to increase internet capacity at its offices. The law does not specify a direct household benefit or a change in household costs.

Bridge fund repayment can be forgiven

The George P. Coleman Bridge does not have to repay money from the Toll Facility Revolving Account when available bridge funds are not enough to repay it. The law gives no amount and makes no direct household payment.

Broadband providers get cost reimbursements

Virginia can use up to $20 million in unspent award funds to repay providers for certain unexpected broadband costs in unserved areas. Covered costs include pole work, railroad crossings, and cost-effective underground lines. Providers must show why costs exceeded estimates and that they have paid or committed money needed to finish deployment. Virginia can also choose to repay certain government-required relocation costs as a last resort; providers are not guaranteed payment.

Cardinal program gets startup advance

The Cardinal program can receive a working capital advance of up to $12 million for startup costs while it awaits final approved funding. The Secretary of Finance must approve each draw or use of the money. The advance does not create a direct household payment.

Cash advance for racing operations

The Virginia Racing Commission receives a $125,000 advance from the general fund on July 1 each year. It must repay the advance by December 30. The money supports the commission's operations, not a direct household payment.

Commission cannot raise renovation rates

The State Corporation Commission cannot raise operating rates for its regulatory divisions or the Health Benefit Exchange to build funds for the Tyler Building renovation. The law does not set household rates or savings amounts.

Cyber coverage for state agencies continues

Virginia’s Treasury can continue cyber coverage for state agencies under the Property Plan. The law gives no coverage amount, premium, or end date.

Disability board shares agency services

The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities may use up to $76,067 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to buy shared administrative services from the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. Agency heads must approve a written agreement that describes the services and costs. The funding does not create a direct household payment or new benefit.

Donor funds stay with Virginia’s art museum

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts must use designated donated funds for the purposes donors specified. Those funds cannot be transferred to other agencies or cut through appropriation reductions. The law gives no amount.

Dredging funds released to port authority

The state can transfer already allocated dredging money to the Virginia Port Authority. The Authority must submit a project schedule before requesting release of the funds. The law states no new funding amount.

Energy settlement funds aid consumers

Virginia must use Exxon overcharge funds for specified programs. Other named settlement funds must support an authorized energy program benefiting petroleum consumers. Federal approval is required before spending.

Federal credit for transportation projects

Virginia’s transportation board may seek federal credit for certain transportation projects. Its applications and agreements cannot financially obligate Virginia or use the state’s credit as security. The law does not guarantee a loan or state a financing amount.

Forestry tower revenue funds forests

The Department of Forestry can make agreements with private groups about its tower at 900 Natural Resources Drive in Albemarle County. The department keeps the revenue for forest land management while the tower operates. The law does not state how much revenue the agreements will bring in.

Fuel tax money pays for fuel testing

The law directs $550,000 in each of two years from motor fuel tax revenue to the Department of General Services for motor fuels testing. It does not change household fuel taxes or prices.

Funding helps agencies manage shortfalls

The law provides $113,742 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to implement Chapter 235. It also makes funds available for agencies’ unavoidable costs they cannot cover with existing budgets, including some Workforce Transition Act benefits. Agencies facing delays in federal grants can receive interest-free Treasury loans, with up to 24 months to repay.

Funding supports Virginia heritage groups

Virginia provides $171,250 in each of the first two years for The Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. It also gives the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation $875,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The Foundation must report its spending and efforts to sustain its work by September 1 each year. The money supports these groups, not direct household payments.

Funding to carry out other laws

The state provides $50,400 in FY2027 for Chapters 992 and 1081. It provides $5,454 in FY2027 and $2,954 in FY2028 for Chapter 1039, $286,131 and $122,681 for Chapter 1120, and $15,000 in each year for Chapter 717. These allocations carry out those laws; this budget text does not explain their household effects.

Grants support Virginia military communities

Virginia provides $2 million in FY2027 for the Military Community Infrastructure Grant Program. It also allocates up to $3 million for land-use mitigation near three military facilities: $1.7 million near Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress, $700,000 near Langley Air Force Base, and $600,000 near Naval Air Station Oceana. That mitigation money is available only after dedicated revenue covers requirements from an earlier budget act.

Higher pay for DMV Select agents

DMV Select Agents receive 4.5% of the first $500,000 they collect each fiscal year and 5% of collections above $500,000. These rates apply to state taxes and fees already set by law. They do not change what customers owe.

Homeowner groups can maintain roadsides

The law lets the Commonwealth Transportation Commissioner hire homeowner associations for groundskeeping, mowing, and litter removal. It does not state contract amounts or provide a direct household payment.

Incentives support new airline routes

Virginia puts $200,000 into its new airline service fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. One-quarter of each year’s funds is reserved for projects at Virginia airports with fewer than 400,000 passenger boardings a year. Airlines flying international routes from a Virginia airport at least twice a week can receive up to $500,000 for year-round service or $300,000 for seasonal service. The law does not promise lower fares or more flights for passengers.

Library of Virginia keeps project funds

Unspent money for the Library of Virginia’s print collections project carries forward for the same purpose instead of returning to the general fund. The state also provides $1.436 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for necessary library technology services outside the state technology agency. These funds support library projects and agency costs, not direct household payments.

Local governments can seek utility reimbursement

A city or county can qualify for reimbursement when an authorized utility in state-owned waters must be moved, removed, or abandoned for a federal navigation or flood-control project.

Local trusts can fund duty benefits

A locality with a qualifying trust for non-pension benefits can use its assets to pay Line of Duty Act benefits. The law does not set a new benefit amount.

Lower costs for DMV federal grants

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles does not have to recover statewide or agency indirect costs from federal grants while it evaluates and develops an indirect cost plan. The law gives no dollar amount or end date for this exemption.

Lower public costs for legislative travel

During regular or special sessions, legislators’ daily expense allowances cannot exceed the maximum allowed under federal rates. Members may use state transportation to attend sessions, but cannot also request travel reimbursement for that trip. The law does not state the dollar cap or expected savings.

More broadband grants for unserved areas

Virginia continues grants to extend broadband to areas without a provider and can fund regional planning and engineering. Public broadband authorities can apply without private investment, but their grants cannot exceed 10% of available funding in a fiscal year. The law prioritizes unserved areas and certain business-ready sites in high-unemployment regions. If the state’s BEAD subgrantee selection process is delayed beyond June 1, 2024, specified 2024 budget provisions remain in effect until selection begins; returned federal recovery funds go to named state funds for transfer under the cited budget provisions. No household is guaranteed service.

More coverage for claims against officers

Virginia extends risk coverage for claims against constitutional officers and their appointees. It applies to actions filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the Virginia State Bar. The law states no coverage amount.

More flexible funding for capital projects

Eligible institutions can request more spending authority when listed capital projects cost more than budgeted. Available nongeneral fund money must cover the increase, and it cannot raise the project’s debt limit. The state can also approve spending all investment interest earned on bond money for listed projects. Qualifying projects can keep using unspent money from the prior two-year budget period, or use another bond route when the Treasury Board declines specified bond financing.

More flexible innovation program funding

The Virginia Innovation Partnership Authority can transfer appropriated funds to an established nonprofit manager for the Authority’s legal purposes. The Authority receives its appropriation in 12 equal monthly payments each fiscal year. The budget director can approve a larger monthly payment to meet obligations, but total payments cannot exceed that year’s appropriation.

More funding for alcohol licensing

The law provides $839,752 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for alcohol licensing technicians, plus $2.5 million each year for licensing agents. It also moves $1.4 million in unused nicotine-system fund money to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority by July 15, 2026, and provides $1,737,272 in FY2027 for related implementation costs. The Authority may receive an interest-free loan of up to $2 million for those costs, with approval from the Secretary of Finance.

More funding for cyber research

The Commonwealth Cyber Initiative gets $10 million in FY2027 and $10 million in FY2028 to expand its work and recruit faculty. It also gets $7.5 million each year to establish and run its Hub, including research, student internships, and education programs. These funds do not expire at year-end and become part of the initiative’s base budget.

More funding for legislative operations

The state can transfer up to $10,000 per year for the Lieutenant Governor’s compensation allowances. The Lieutenant Governor must report increases to specified legislative leaders. The law also provides $628,678 in FY2027 and $543,678 in FY2028 for listed legislative commissions and councils, plus $18,470 each year for costs related to the Virginia Indian Advisory Board.

More funding for regional transit

The state provides an estimated $426,028 to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Commission in FY2027 and another estimated $426,028 in FY2028. The money funds the commission, not direct household payments.

More funding for rural Virginia center

Virginia provides $470,000 in each of the first two years for the Center for Rural Virginia. The law does not specify a direct household benefit or individual eligibility rules.

More funding for science research centers

The law provides yearly grants of $250,000 for medical modeling programs, $1.5 million for Old Dominion University bioelectrics research, $370,000 for spaceflight and autonomy, and $4 million for a Hampton Roads biomedical research consortium. It also provides $500,000 each year for nuclear research and related data programs with Virginia research universities.

More funding for Virginia wine promotion

The state puts about $2.2 million into the Virginia Wine Promotion Fund in FY2027 and another $2.2 million in FY2028. The money supports wine promotion, not direct household payments.

More funding to update state regulations

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services receives $2,789,430 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to modernize its general-fund-supported regulatory programs. The law does not specify a direct household payment or a change in eligibility, prices, or services.

More grants for Virginia racing events

Virginia provides $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for racing and equine events. Each year, $500,000 goes to the Shenandoah Agricultural Foundation for harness racing and $500,000 goes to the Great Meadow Foundation for steeplechase and other events.

More grants for Virginia research

The law funds bioscience and manufacturing research with grants of $3.75 million, $925,000, $1.1 million, $600,000, and $1 million in each fiscal year. Research grants have matching and project requirements. Up to $500,000 each year from the bioscience grant can pay administrative, promotional, and legal costs. UVA also gets $3 million in FY2027 for its biotechnology institute after signing an agreement; it must match state building funds with equal nonstate money for faculty recruitment.

More local access to state technology

Local governments and school divisions can buy technology goods and services from Virginia’s state technology agency and its vendors, unless a contract bars the purchase. The agency’s service surcharge is capped at 12.38% in FY2027 and FY2028. The agency must submit security-service rates for review by September 1 each year; the law does not set those rates.

More local DMV license services

DMV can hire local constitutional officers as license agents if the county or city chief administrative officer agrees. The locality must direct at least 80% of DMV’s monthly payment to the officer’s office. That money cannot replace existing local funding or reduce the required local share.

More money for DMV maintenance

The law provides $10,390,900 in FY2027 and $3,852,500 in FY2028 for the Department of Motor Vehicles’ maintenance reserve. It does not specify a change in DMV services or fees.

More money for Virginia Main Street

Virginia provides $999,000 for the Main Street Program in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The Department can use up to 40% of each year’s funds for administration. The law does not promise direct household payments.

More money for waterway projects

The state provides $4 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for eligible waterway projects. Localities with a three-to-one match receive special consideration, and up to $150,000 each year can pay program costs. The law also provides $600,000 in FY2027 for James River dredging and $2 million in FY2027 for emergency dredging of the Little Wicomico River.

More options for local public transit

Virginia’s transportation board may direct federal funds, required state matching funds, and state revenues to local and regional transit. State revenues may support operations or capital projects. The law does not set an amount.

More options for state building repairs

State agencies must give roof repairs first priority for maintenance funds. Colleges and other institutions can use funds for listed repairs, safety, utility, access, and conservation needs. Listed museums can use up to 20% of annual maintenance funds for certain conservation or exhibit work. About $1 million is set aside for state asset systems and an audit; Jamestown roof work depends on available funds.

More outreach for Virginia farmers

Virginia provides $30,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a small-farm outreach partnership. It focuses on small, socially disadvantaged, BIPOC, new, beginning, veteran, and women farmers and landowners. The state also authorizes $1,120,226 each year to promote Virginia farm products overseas, coordinated with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s international offices. Neither provision sets individual payments.

More oversight of state building upkeep

The law directs state agencies to carry out capital maintenance recommendations and report progress each year by December 1. It also provides $15 million in FY2027 for state parking facility maintenance. Authorized project planning funds must be repaid when a project receives construction funding.

More reporting on farm board taxes

In each of FY2027 and FY2028, estimated allocations support commodity boards, including $1.5 million each for soybean and horse boards and $800,000 for the cattle board. Boards can spend available funds only on authorized work. Each specified board must also tell tax-paying producers its rate, collections, spending, and activities each year.

More resources for cannabis regulation

The state must authorize an interest-free loan of up to $15 million to create and run a retail cannabis market. The Secretary of Finance may allow repayment beyond 12 months for the Cannabis Control Authority’s market costs. The law also transfers staff and operating funds for retail hemp regulation to the Authority, including up to $3.85 million in available, uncommitted funds by July 1, 2027.

More rural electric-car chargers

Virginia agencies must look for available federal money for public electric-car chargers in rural areas. Applications and grants must prioritize rural places and localities without public charging. The law does not set a funding amount; projects depend on federal money being available.

More state funding for local treasurer offices

Local treasurers receive about $29.1 million from the general fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Each year includes about $13.9 million for treasurer assistance, $15.1 million for operations, and $106,000 for state tax services. The funding supports local offices and governments, not direct household payments.

More state support for tourism

The transportation department pays the tourism authority $1.425 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to run state Welcome Centers, including $225,000 yearly for Danville maintenance. Virginia also provides $5.55 million in tourism grants in FY2027 and $4.25 million in FY2028. The grants include $2.1 million each year for Spearhead Trails, $450,000 yearly for Heart of Appalachia, and awards for other tourism groups and events. The Southwest Virginia Regional Recreation Authority must submit annual financial statements by September 1.

More support for local children's services

Virginia provides $100,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Children's Services Act training and technical help. It also provides $70,000 each year for uniform program reporting and $275,000 each year for a child-services data system. Localities receive administrative funding, subject to local matching rules; the general-fund share is capped at $2.56 million per year. Each locality receives at least the larger of $12,500 or 2 percent of its total pool allocation, including state and local funds.

More support for marine products board

The state provides the Virginia Marine Products Board $402,543 and two staff positions in FY2027 and again in FY2028. The money comes from specified marine license taxes, license fees, and permit fees.

More support for regional development

Virginia funds regional commissions with annual payments ranging from $114,971 to $380,943, paid in four installments. It also provides $250,000 yearly for two years for Coalfield Expressway Authority operations and $200,000 yearly for two years to help two planning commissions coordinate regional economic projects. The commissions must report quarterly on supported activities and federal investment secured.

More support for Virginia aviation

The state funds rural airport safety research with up to $400,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. It also provides $100,000 each year to the Civil Air Patrol and $500,000 each year to the Washington Airports Task Force. Another $500,000 in the first year supports advanced air mobility test sites. State agencies must also keep written aircraft-use policies and records.

More support for Virginia innovation groups

The law funds logistics projects with $350,000 in each fiscal year and engineering assistance with $250,000 in FY2027 and $125,000 in FY2028. It also provides $750,000 each year for the Virginia Innovation Partnership Authority’s offices and operations. A regional technology consortium gets $108,905 in each fiscal year for research and development.

More time for contingency funds

The Governor can use up to $1 million in FY2027 and up to $1 million in FY2028 for listed purposes when the regular appropriation is not enough for specified unexpected events. Any Item 471 money left at the end of a fiscal year stays available for those purposes the next year.

More transport funds for air-quality areas

When an area fails transportation air-quality rules, funds may support demand management, air-quality compliance, or congestion projects. Any remaining money is set aside for that area when the law allows.

Museums get flexible resale purchasing

The Science Museum of Virginia and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts do not have to follow the state purchasing law when buying items for resale in their shops or food services. Their purchasing procedures must seek competition when practical.

Museums keep property development revenue

The Frontier Culture Museum and Gunston Hall can retain money from qualifying property development for agency operations. The money must go into a special fund, and its use remains subject to state approval. The law gives no amount.

New office for state resilience

The state provides $500,000 and three positions in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to establish the Office of Commonwealth Resilience. The law does not specify a direct household payment or eligibility change.

New state project management center

The state provides $2 million in FY2027 and $2 million in FY2028 to create and operate the Project Management Center of Excellence. The money funds the center, not direct household payments.

Pay for Virginia alcohol board members

Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Board members receive annual pay and expense reimbursement for official duties. Their amounts match those set for House members when the General Assembly is not in session. The Board Chair receives the amount set for a Virginia senator. The law gives no dollar amounts.

Reserve funds cover office costs

The state can use the Constitutional Officer Reserve Fund to cover certain reimbursement shortfalls. The Compensation Board can move reserve money among budget items for constitutional offices. The law gives no total fund amount.

Shared mail service for state agencies

The Department of General Services must create a shared mail service for state agencies in the Richmond area. It will process incoming and outgoing mail at central locations and improve mail security.

Shared support for vision services

The state makes up to $3,049,483 available in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for shared administration between the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired and the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. Agency heads must approve an agreement that describes the services and costs. This funds agency operations, not direct household payments.

State agencies buy efficient equipment

Virginia agencies and institutions must buy Energy Star-rated appliances and equipment when those products are available. This rule applies to state purchases and does not promise lower household bills or a rebate.

State and local fuel buying

The Department of General Services must combine state and local bulk and commercial fuel contracts. The goal is to use shared buying power for better prices and less paperwork. The law gives no savings amount.

State balances can fund transportation

The law makes available for transportation any amount the Comptroller designates from the June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2027, general fund balance. It states no amount or specific project.

State coordinates broadband and road plans

Virginia provides about $1.4 million each year for broadband program administration. State departments must compare approved broadband projects with planned road projects each year, finish within 90 days after adopting the road plan, and notify grant recipients of their findings as best they can. These provisions support program coordination, not direct household payments or construction grants.

State funding promotes Virginia spirits

Virginia puts $1,213,033 into the Virginia Spirits Promotion Fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The money supports spirits promotion, not direct household payments.

State property sales return more to funds

When Virginia sells state-owned property, the state fund receives 115% of the costs paid for that sale. The provision does not identify who pays those costs or set a household payment.

State receives share of court fees

Virginia receives two-thirds of covered excess fees collected by circuit court clerks. This revenue-sharing rule does not change the fees households pay.

State services get a digital team

The law provides $5 million in FY2027 to create a state digital service team. The team aims to improve agency services and oversee technology vendors and contracts.

State updates its financial and HR systems

The Cardinal program can receive up to $15.6 million for capital-asset and lease-accounting system modules, and up to $8.5 million for its human resources system. The Secretary of Finance must approve spending. The program must report planned human-resources system changes and costs to its governance committee.

Virginia adds a statewide broadband map

Virginia spends $424,000 on a statewide broadband map in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The map is updated at least once a year and shows coverage, speeds, rural areas, and prime farmland. It can help residents identify service availability but does not guarantee service to any home.

Virginia Beach gets park funding

Virginia provides $5 million in FY2027 for Atlantic Park development, expansion, and related costs in Virginia Beach. The Secretary of Commerce and Trade and the city must sign an agreement. The money cannot replace existing project funding, and unspent funds carry forward.

Virginia funds artificial intelligence work

Virginia provides $500,000 in FY2027 for George Mason University’s AI Innovation Nexus. The university coordinates its work with other state universities and existing efforts. Another $500,000 supports planning for a statewide artificial intelligence institute. The plan is due July 1, 2027, and must avoid duplicating existing work.

Virginia funds arts and museums

Virginia provides $235,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for a university and theater partnership. It also sets aside $351,314 each year for Science Museum of Virginia Dome equipment and $158,513 each year to help the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts pay Richmond’s service fee. Unspent arts and museum-service funds can carry forward, and Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation can receive approved unspent revenue for its programs. These provisions support cultural institutions, not direct household payments.

Virginia funds population and policy research

Virginia provides $548,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for nonpartisan public-policy research. The Weldon Cooper Center receives $175,000 each year to produce population estimates at least every other year between census years. It also receives $150,000 each year to expand demographic projections. These funds support research and data, not direct household payments or eligibility changes.

Virginia funds regional telecom network

Virginia provides $39,001 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to support the Southwest Virginia Telecommunications Network. The law does not specify a direct household payment or a particular change in service.

Virginia funds university research projects

George Mason University receives $956,250 a year from the general fund and $5.85 million a year from other funds for biomedical and biomaterials research in FY2027 and FY2028. It also receives $750,000 each year for simulation research and $125,000 each year for Lyme disease research and test development. Another $275,000 each year supports Virginia’s clinical research network. These grants fund research but do not guarantee household payments, care, or access to a clinical trial.

Virginia keeps memory project funding

Virginia provides $300,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to operate the Virginia Memory Project. The funding supports the project and does not create a direct household payment or change eligibility for services.

Virginia must open more alcohol stores

The law requires the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board to open additional government stores in locations it expects to have the greatest potential to increase sales. It does not name the locations or set a household cost or saving.

Virginia racing board members get paid

Virginia Racing Commission members receive compensation and repayment for reasonable costs they incur while doing commission work. The law does not state the amount.

Virginia supports veterinary center

Virginia provides $301,219 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to support the Marion duPont Scott Equine Center at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. The funding supports the center and does not create direct household payments.

Website funding for civic education

The state sets aside $10,000 in FY2027 from the Commission on Civic Education’s operating funds to develop and maintain a website. This is a one-time allocation, not a direct household payment.

Fantasy contest fees support oversight

Virginia provides $100,000 in FY2027 and $100,000 in FY2028 for fantasy contest regulation. Annual registration fees paid by contest operators fund the department’s direct and indirect oversight costs. The law does not state a household benefit amount or change the fees.

Food labels must meet federal rules

Virginia bars the sale of food that needs a nutrition label if the label does not meet federal rules. This applies to food the FDA requires to carry a nutrition label.

More funding for assistive technology help

The Virginia Technology Assistance Program receives $500,000 in special funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The program receives money from the Communications Sales and Use Tax Trust Fund before the remaining funds go to local governments. The provision does not specify which households or services receive assistance.

Earlier planning for Interstate 81 projects

The Transportation Board can begin engineering and right-of-way work on Interstate 81 improvement projects before construction is fully funded. Expected construction funding must be planned within the three years after the Six-Year Improvement Program. This does not guarantee construction funding.

Lower tolls for public buses

The Commissioner must work with transit officials and toll operators to lower tolls for public buses or remove them when practical. They cannot do so if it conflicts with a contract or other law. The law does not require lower passenger fares.

More protection for local road funds

Virginia protects certain county, city, and town roadway project funds from reallocation based on a finding that the projects do not fit the state transportation plan. The rule covers specified counties and urban-system roads.

More use of existing passenger rail funds

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority can use remaining funds for passenger rail improvements and station facilities along the Richmond-to-Washington, D.C., I-95 corridor. The law does not state how much money remains or add new funding.

New liability coverage for Virginia Railway Express

The Northern Virginia Transportation Commission and the Potomac Rappahannock Transportation Commission can arrange liability coverage for their joint Virginia Railway Express project. They can combine insurance with self-insurance. The law gives no coverage amount.

Portsmouth gets $7 million for water main

Portsmouth receives $7 million from the general fund in FY2027 for improvements to the Prentis Street transmission water main. The law does not say whether household water bills will change.

State parks can promote local travel

The Department can use State Park Conservation Resources Fund money for Virginia travel ads featuring state parks and nearby localities or regions. It can work with the Virginia Tourism Authority, local groups, and broadcasters. The law sets no spending amount.

Surplus highway property money funds repairs

Money left after leasing or selling certain highway-program property goes to the State of Good Repair Program. Proceeds must exceed related costs, and funded projects must qualify under federal law.

Unspent road project funds carry forward

Unspent general-fund money assigned to a transportation project can carry into the next fiscal year. It stays available for that project instead of returning to the general fund.

Banks may serve licensed cannabis businesses

Banks and credit unions may provide services to licensed marijuana businesses for lawful activities. State-law protections apply when providers use reasonable checks to confirm licensing and compliance. The law does not require a bank or credit union to serve these businesses.

Low-interest loans for community lenders

Virginia provides $150,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to administer its community finance fund. The Department must use 10% to 20% of remaining fund balances for loans to qualifying institutions. Interest cannot exceed 3%, and repayment cannot be required before five years after the loan contract is signed.

Lower conduit fees for I-95 financing

The Virginia Small Business Financing Authority may charge no more than $25,000 per year for conduit issuer services on the I-95 HOV/HOT Lanes project. The cap applies to services under the referenced agreement.

More options for state-backed investments

The Virginia Innovation Partnership Authority can use transferred funds for private investment funds, direct investments, and early investments in selected technologies. Its board must approve and monitor investments in private funds. The provision does not state a funding amount.

More staffing for utility regulators

The state can use up to $200,000 carried forward from FY2026 to fund an additional utility-regulator position. The Commission receives $691,123 in FY2027 and $891,123 in FY2028. The law does not state whether this changes household electricity bills.

Utilities can weigh local project benefits

A utility can consider possible economic benefits to a qualifying disadvantaged community when reviewing a large customer’s grid connection request. The local government must have resolved that the project is in the public interest. A connection or community benefit is not guaranteed.

Extra Medicaid payments for Chesapeake physicians

Beginning July 1, 2022, Virginia provides extra Medicaid payments to physician practice plans tied to Chesapeake Regional Hospital. The hospital must agree to transfer the non-federal share. Federal approval is required for the payments and related managed-care contract changes.

Extra Medicaid payments for doctors

Virginia’s Medicaid agency provides extra payments for eligible physicians affiliated with a qualifying Eastern Virginia medical school and for dentists connected to Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Dentistry. Payments require federal approval and are limited by the approved average commercial rate. Physician practice plans at qualifying children’s hospitals receive $11.05 million in total payments each year, subject to the average commercial rate.

Extra Medicaid payments for hospitals

Virginia’s Medicaid agency establishes or authorizes extra payments for many qualifying hospitals and nursing homes, including certain university, local-government, and trauma-center facilities. Some payments also cover clinic or nursing-facility services. The amounts follow federal payment limits and other Medicaid payments; required state-share agreements and federal approval apply to several programs. Federal money can cover eligible unpaid Medicaid service costs at nonstate government-owned nursing facilities, up to each facility’s payment limit.

Extra Medicaid support for care facilities

The veterans agency can transfer funds to cover the state share of extra Medicaid payments for state-owned nursing homes. Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine can also transfer funds for Medicaid payments to affiliated teaching hospitals. Federal rules and payment limits apply, and the law does not set individual payments.

Funding for health research and agencies

The state provides $595,612 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for medical modeling and simulation research at Old Dominion University. It also funds licensure and certification programs with $278,000 in each year. Health planning agencies can receive excess application fees and keep a reserve of up to three months of operating needs. The Department of Health provides about $20,000 a year in existing funds to support the Partners in Prayer Program.

Funding for statewide primary care improvements

The Virginia Center for Health Innovation receives $816,750 in state general funds and $326,700 in other state funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028. The money supports statewide work on primary care financing, quality, delivery, data, and telehealth. Virginia may also draw federal matching funds.

Funding supports fast-acting insulin work

Virginia provides $1.5 million in FY2027 to support a nonprofit developing fast-acting insulin. Before payment, the recipient must show an equal amount in non-state matching funds. It must report jobs created and estimated savings to Virginia residents and the state when the project ends. Unspent money carries forward for continued use.

Health centers get new filing rules

Health centers’ initial timely filings allowed by federal law must be submitted by October 1, 2024. After that, they must report an increase or decrease in services within 12 months. Virginia may repay health centers for unreimbursed costs allowed by federal law; the provision does not set household costs or benefits.

Health fund money goes to Medicaid

Virginia must use Health Care Fund revenue for the state share of Medicaid unless the budget act specifically allows another use. This directs state money to Medicaid but does not directly change anyone’s eligibility or benefit amount.

Hospitals receive annual trauma fund payments

The Virginia Department of Health must make at least one annual distribution from the Trauma Center Fund to eligible hospitals. The amount depends on money available when each distribution is made. The law sets no fixed payment amount for hospitals or households.

Medicaid drug rules protect treatment access

Virginia must update Medicaid managed-care contracts to follow an existing drug prior-authorization requirement. When the state contracts to manage Medicaid pharmacy benefits, contractor fees must reflect reasonable service costs. Contractors cannot receive incentives for denying or delaying appropriate drug treatment, reducing drug use, or earning a share of savings.

Medicaid gets dedicated health fund money

Virginia must use money in the Virginia Health Care Fund for the state’s share of Medicaid. The General Assembly can approve another use. This rule does not change who qualifies for Medicaid or the benefits they receive.

Medicaid payment rules for clinics and midwives

For Medicaid-covered services, licensed midwives receive at least the higher rate paid to a physician or certified nurse midwife for the same service in their area. Virginia may also pay qualifying Tribal health facilities the annual Indian Health Service rate for services eligible for 100% federal funding. Other services use standard Medicaid rates. The Tribal facility payment approach depends on federal authority and approval.

Medicaid recovery efforts fund health care

The Department of Medical Assistance Services must work with state, local, and health-system groups to improve Medicaid claims and recoveries. Money recovered through these efforts goes to the Virginia Health Care Fund. The department may repay a vendor from savings only after the health secretary approves its plan. Contractors may also receive fees from recoveries they generate, and the department must report recovery results and audit targets by November 1 each year.

More checks on SNAP payment errors

Virginia provides $1 million in state funds and $1 million in other funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a contractor to help reduce SNAP payment errors. The budget director must wait for contract-cost records and cannot release more than the documented contract cost. This funding does not change household eligibility or benefit amounts.

More funding for aging research

Virginia provides at least $536,685 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for the Virginia Center on Aging. This includes $319,750 each year for Alzheimer’s and related disease research. Virginia Commonwealth University must keep other support for the Center at least at its FY2019 level.

More Medicaid funding for school services

DMAS reimburses school divisions 50% of federal Medicaid funding for documented administrative costs when a division signs an agreement to support Medicaid. The agency also retains 5% of federal Medicaid funding to reimburse school divisions for medical and transportation services.

More support for Medicaid care services

The state helps certain residential and treatment foster care providers qualify for Medicaid reimbursement. Medicaid agencies must review quality measures used for extra payments, and managed care plans must use transportation broker measures that match the fee-for-service program. Plans must report broker performance each year by November 1.

More support for state health data systems

Virginia provides funds in FY2027 and FY2028 for its patient-level health database and All Payer Claims Database. Each year, the patient database receives $1,272,313 from the general fund and $3.075 million from other funds. The claims database receives $1.025 million from the general fund and $3.075 million from other funds each year, limited to Medicaid-eligible costs. This supports data systems, not direct household payments or changes to care eligibility.

New office manages state health grants

The Virginia Department of Health receives $557,010 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to establish an Office of Grants Administration. The office coordinates grant applications, tracks awards, provides training, and supports compliance. The department must report grant details each year by October 15.

Replacement payments for children's hospitals

Beginning July 1, 2026, qualifying freestanding children’s hospitals receive payments to replace certain reductions in Medicaid payments. A hospital must have had more than 50% Medicaid use in 2009. The payment is the higher of the amount under the current formula or the annual amount under the fiscal year 2026 formula.

SNAP funds help local offices administer benefits

SNAP funds can reimburse local social services boards and superintendents for administrative work. State rules and percentage limits apply. This does not change household SNAP eligibility or benefit amounts.

State can cover unpaid health premiums

If a participating employer fails to send required payments for Virginia’s state health insurance program, the State Comptroller can pay the amount due after receiving notice. The state can recover the money from funds payable to that employer.

State health exchange gets startup funding

The state can provide up to $40 million for start-up and other costs of the State Health Benefit Exchange. The funding may be an interest-free Treasury loan. The Commission may repay it with some fees collected from participating health insurers.

State plans collaborative behavioral care

The Department of Medical Assistance Services must develop guidelines for a statewide Collaborative Care Model program. It must report progress to lawmakers by October 1 each year. The law does not set program benefits, funding, or household eligibility.

State upgrades social services systems

Virginia funds the Department of Social Services licensing system with $786,369 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The state also sets aside $350,000 from general funds and $350,000 from other funds each year to replace the CommonHelp benefits portal. Unspent portal funds carry forward for that work. The department receives $780,000 from each fund source each year for electronic identity checks. These system investments do not change benefit amounts, eligibility, or household duties.

Telemedicine providers choose their tools

Virginia cannot require a health care provider to use a specific company’s technology or app to get paid for telemedicine services. The law does not set a household payment or coverage amount.

University medical center keeps unspent funds

Unspent University of Virginia Medical Center funds from June 30, 2026, and June 30, 2027, remain available for approved uses. The Department of Planning and Budget must approve their use. The law does not state the balance amounts.

Up to $30 million for teaching hospitals

Virginia’s Medicaid agency can provide extra payments to teaching hospitals affiliated with the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. Total payments cannot exceed $30 million. A public entity provides the non-federal share, and the required agreements and funds must meet federal rules.

Virginia funds specialized health programs

Virginia provides $252,595 each year for a palliative care partnership and $255,000 each year for two programs at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Medicine. It also provides $350,000 each year for a movement disorders center and $225,588 each year for medicinal tobacco research and field tests. These funds support programs and research; they do not change patient coverage or guarantee care.

More funding for a statewide housing study

Virginia provides $200,000 in FY2027 and another $200,000 in FY2028 for a statewide housing assessment. The funding supports state planning and does not directly change household benefits or eligibility.

More support for home buyers and parks

Virginia continues authorization of $5 million in unused energy-efficiency funds for its pilot down-payment assistance program. It also continues $5 million for a manufactured-home-park acquisition pilot, with up to $750,000 for eligible groups’ due-diligence work before making an offer. Existing program rules and reporting requirements continue. These grants are not direct payments to park residents.

College employee rules consider pay costs

Certain covered employees at public colleges with a state management agreement are not subject to a specified budget rule, unless the budget act addresses them directly. Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia’s higher education council must, when practicable, consider faculty field, rank, living costs, and regional comparisons when setting salary goals. The law does not require a raise.

Colleges can finance campus housing

Several Virginia colleges can arrange financing and agreements for housing, parking, and other campus facilities. Some can use foundation bonds or interim Treasury loans, and some need the Governor’s approval to explore financing. The law does not require construction or set project costs or rents.

Colleges set internship goals

Virginia colleges must set goals for internships and other work-based learning, based on state measures. Starting in FY2027, state agencies must report on progress, institutional results, and related expenses by November 1 each year. The law does not promise students placements or payments.

Community colleges get cybersecurity funds

Virginia provides $1 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to improve cybersecurity at community colleges. The funding supports college systems and does not create a direct household payment or individual eligibility rule.

Funding for Governor’s Fellows

The state provides $103,800 each year for the Governor’s Fellows program. Unspent money remains available the next fiscal year, and the budget department can transfer funds to state agencies. The law does not state individual fellow payments.

Funding for HBCU and community projects

Virginia provides $12.5 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for Norfolk State University and partner institutions. Projects include minority business support, health programs, broadband and technology access, workforce credentials, and an HBCU instructional site at Northern Virginia Community College. The money funds projects, not direct household payments.

Funding for state minimum wage increases

The state makes about $939,564 available in FY2027 and $3.9 million in FY2028 to help agencies and public colleges pay for scheduled minimum-wage increases. The Compensation Board also receives about $210,442 in FY2028 for increases affecting workers whose wages it funds. The increases are scheduled for January 1, 2027, and January 1, 2028; these provisions do not state workers’ new wage amounts.

Funding for VCU’s Qatar campus

The law directs an appropriation for administrative and support services at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Qatar campus. It does not state the amount or create a direct household payment.

Guidelines for college space use

Beginning July 1, 2026, Virginia’s higher education council must, when practicable, bring public colleges together to develop space-use guidance. It must consider current use and future plans for teaching and research space. The law provides no construction funding or change to student charges.

Higher education centers plan together

Three regional education and research centers must coordinate their work and report each year by October 1. The West Piedmont Higher Education Center can keep rental income from outside groups using space in Martinsville. After its reconstitution is complete, its board must make a sustainability plan and report options to state leaders by August 1, 2027. The law does not state a funding amount for this planning.

More bond funding for school facilities

The Secretary of Education can allocate Virginia’s annual tax-exempt bond limit to education facilities built through public-private partnerships. Unused bond capacity can carry over. The Secretary must prioritize proposals showing private contributions, efficiencies, or other partnership benefits.

More campus repairs and facilities

The state funds campus projects in FY2027, including $7.4 million for University of Mary Washington maintenance and $6.2 million for community college roofs and heating and cooling systems. It also funds property purchases at James Madison University and Laurel Ridge Community College, and a career training facility at Rappahannock Community College. The Laurel Ridge purchase must be below appraised value and paid for with available nongeneral funds. These projects do not set tuition or direct household payments.

More career training for veterans

The government provides $400,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to develop cybersecurity career training for veterans. It also provides $287,850 and two positions each year to William & Mary for veterans counseling degree programs. The law does not set individual payments or tuition aid.

More college access program support

The government provides $250,000 in general funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Guidance to Postsecondary Success program. The program coordinates statewide efforts to expand college access and student success. The funding does not guarantee individual student payments.

More college transfer and G3 support

The state provides $480,000 and two staff positions each year for an online college transfer site with agreements, course guides, and search tools. It also provides $4 million each year for advice and outreach about the G3 education program; this funding does not change who qualifies. New funding for community colleges must first support college operations, while base funds must support a goal of 70 percent full-time faculty.

More colleges can run lab schools

An otherwise ineligible institution can partner with a Virginia public college to run a college partnership laboratory school and access the state fund. The public college must have had an approved application to serve as fiscal agent and partner by June 30, 2024. The Department of Education requires contracts to be resubmitted to meet the partnership rules.

More colleges join 4-VA

The 4-VA Management Board can add institutions when expansion supports the partnership's goals. The Board is expected to pool funding as needed for ongoing priorities and projects. The law does not set a new funding amount or guarantee a direct payment to students.

More degrees in key college fields

The state provides about $11.8 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to support degree production at eight public colleges. Schools are expected to increase annual awards over their 2016–17 base levels: targets range from 5 to 50 in data science and technology, 5 to 35 in science and engineering, 5 to 45 in healthcare, and 5 to 40 in education. The state higher-education council tracks progress; the funding does not guarantee admission or a degree.

More flexibility for school staff

School divisions can use existing technology-teacher funds for a licensed data coordinator, technology teacher, or blended role. Divisions receiving reading or algebra-readiness funds and providing the required local match can hire licensed specialists. School boards can also employ reading staff while they work toward required specialist training and licensure. These changes add staffing options but do not provide a new funding amount.

More funding for college centers

Two Southside Virginia Community College centers each receive $9,780 per year in FY2027 and FY2028. The Amherst Center at Central Virginia Community College receives $255,000 in state funds and $163,000 in other funds each year. The college must report yearly on enrollment, programs, students served, and degrees and certificates awarded.

More funding for college data research

The government provides $475,047 in general funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for research and administration of a multi-agency higher-education data system. The funding supports analysis and policy recommendations, not direct payments to students.

More funding for colleges that meet goals

The state provides $20 million in general funds and $18.1 million in other funds each year in FY2027 and FY2028. A college receives its transfer only after the state council certifies that it met all available performance benchmarks.

More funding for graduate engineering

Virginia provides about $1.16 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for graduate engineering education projects. The annual total includes about $801,000 in general funds and $358,000 in other funds. Participating institutions must submit reports or operating plans for state review; the funding does not set individual student awards.

More funding for healthcare career training

The state funds healthcare career programs in Hampton Roads and Greater Roanoke, and puts $1 million into a statewide healthcare training fund in FY2027. Roanoke programs can support hiring, worker training, and employers’ clinical instruction costs; unspent money carries forward. Another $200,000 for a regional workforce initiative depends on matching commitments from Maryland and the District of Columbia. Dental hygiene program funds must be matched by private money; the law does not state that amount.

More funding for Norfolk State programs

Norfolk State receives $5,350,128 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for engineering, computer science, and criminal justice programs. The university also receives $37,500 each year for its Eminent Scholars Program and up to $70,000 each year for an applied sciences institute. These funds support programs, not set payments to students.

More funding for public employee benefits

The law sets employer funding rates for public employee insurance and retirement-related programs in FY2027 and FY2028. Rates range from 0.13% to 1.06%; Virginia’s Sickness and Disability Program rate is 0.39% of payroll. The state also transfers more than $4.1 million each year for Line of Duty Act premiums and $4.6 million in FY2027 and $4.8 million in FY2028 for workers’ compensation premiums. These rules fund programs and do not set individual benefit amounts.

More funding for schools and campuses

Roanoke and Petersburg receive $300,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Community Builders Program, divided based on prior-year student membership. The Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind may keep income from renting campus facilities. Virginia also provides $500,000 yearly for Bray School research with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and $50,000 yearly for infrastructure at George Mason University's Point of View facility.

More funding for ultrasound research

The state provides $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Focused Ultrasound Research Program. The money supports research, including work with the University of Virginia, not direct household payments.

More funding for Virginia Tech research

Virginia Tech receives $2.39 million in state funds and $15 million in other funds each year for research in bioengineering, biomaterials, and nanotechnology. The university also receives $4 million in state funds each year for brain disorder research. These appropriations support research and do not provide direct household payments or guarantee treatment.

More graduate engineering education

The state funds an educational telecommunications project that provides graduate engineering education. Annual funding includes $390,647 in state funds and at least $468,850 in other funds, $332,140 in state funds and $168,533 in other funds, and $869,882 in state funds and $436,357 in other funds. Participating institutions must jointly support supplemental budget requests for review by the state higher education council. The law does not set direct student awards.

More graduate engineering training

The state funds educational telecommunications projects that support graduate engineering education in FY2027 and FY2028. One project receives an estimated $299,286 in state funds and $224,464 in other funds each year; another receives $139,633 in state funds each year. Participants must submit a joint report to the state council when requesting extra budget money.

More graduate public policy programs

The government provides $250,000 and two positions each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for William & Mary’s public policy program, whose first year is available online. George Mason University receives $459,125 each year to support its School for Conflict Resolution. Neither appropriation sets individual student awards or tuition aid.

More learning programs for Virginia students

Virginia funds college-readiness grants with $3 million each year and several student learning programs. These include $700,000 yearly for Black History Museum learning, $300,000 yearly for Civics Connects, and $250,000 yearly for regional education centers. The state also provides $300,000 for a free bookstore in FY2027, $125,000 yearly for Schooner Virginia education, and $250,000 yearly for critical-language grants. These funds support programs, not direct household payments.

More medical school enrollment support

Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine receives $6.5 million each year to support enrollment growth, staff, and faster paths to graduation. The funding supports the school’s ability to offer lower tuition to in-state students, but it does not guarantee a tuition cut or set a savings amount.

More medical training and health staff

Virginia provides $4.3 million each year for Virginia Commonwealth University family-practice training. It also funds geriatric education with about $253,000 in state funds and $356,000 in other funds each year. The university must maintain its other support for the Center at least at the FY2019 level. Funding also supports 238 faculty positions and other staff serving the VCU Health System; that provision gives no dollar amount.

More online college classes

George Mason University can form public or private partnerships to develop online and technology-based instruction. Before signing an agreement, it must get approval from the state higher education council and report whether the deal affects the Online Virginia Network Authority. Old Dominion University can use its existing funds to expand distance learning, TELETECHNET, and summer school. Neither provision guarantees admission or sets tuition terms.

More options for job training

The Virginia Space Grant Consortium receives $75,000 in FY2027 and $75,000 in FY2028 for aerospace training and academic pathways. The Southern Virginia Higher Education Center can provide specialized training under employer agreements that existed on January 1, 2016. If local community colleges cannot meet identified employer needs, the Center can use other providers or provide the training itself.

More pay and benefits for state workers

People in listed state jobs qualify for fringe benefits available to full-time classified state employees. Agency heads can use agency funds for performance-based pay plans, but they do not have to do so. The state can adjust starting pay for the newest Virginia Management Fellows cohort beginning July 25, 2026, based on comparable jobs and available funds. The law also sets hiring procedures for jobs funded on a noncontinuous or nonrecurring basis; it does not set their pay or benefits.

More purchasing options for Virginia colleges

All Virginia public colleges can use shared purchasing contracts, regardless of their purchasing-authority level. Beginning July 1, 2026, some colleges use state small-purchase thresholds, though a higher threshold in their own rules remains allowed. Covered colleges can also align proposal advertising rules with referenced state rules.

More regional career training for students

The state funds workforce and technical training through the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center. Career programs receive general and other funds in FY2027 and FY2028, including training in health care, manufacturing, information technology, STEM, automation, and robotics. The Career Tech Academy serves high school students from Charlotte, Halifax, and Mecklenburg counties.

More regional college and job partnerships

A regional education partnership receives $568,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to develop courses in education, healthcare, and cybersecurity. George Mason University can also explore a partnership with Averett University to expand education, job training, and career paths in Southern Virginia. That partnership depends on available resources and is not guaranteed.

More reliable nursing incentive payments

The state provides $3.6 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for the Nursing Preceptor Incentive Program. The health department must find why nursing incentive payments are late or funds go unused, make a corrective plan, and report how many payments arrive within 30 days. The law does not set individual award amounts.

More science and technology learning

Northern Virginia Community College receives $489,000 each year for science, technology, and robotics programs, with an equal private contribution expected. Virginia Peninsula Community College receives $500,000 each year for work with a regional science and math hub. A cybersecurity training platform receives $2 million each year for students in public schools and colleges. Virginia Tech receives $5.22 million each year to increase degrees in key fields, including targets of 60 more data science and technology awards and 100 more science and engineering awards than in 2016–17.

More staffing and services at Richard Bland

Richard Bland College receives $1,557,350 and 13 positions in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for staffing in finance, technology, human resources, financial aid, and operations. The college also receives $300,000 each year for student-success efforts, which may include health services and on-campus jobs. The law does not set individual student payments.

More state funding for local schools

The law provides Norton’s school division $145,896 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The division must certify that it shares at least one service with another school division. Several named local school systems also receive higher state funding for instructional and support positions, based on 25% of Planning District Eight’s rates. The support-position rate is 18%.

More STEM programs for Virginia students

The state provides $150,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for a partnership among three museums. The money supports learning programs for Virginia students in kindergarten through grade 12 and connections to technology careers.

More support for a youth clubhouse

The government provides $250,000 in FY2027 to the Boys and Girls Club of the Northern Neck. The money supports its Northumberland Youth and Teen Clubhouse, not direct household payments.

More support for education research

The state provides $300,000 each year to support the Council on Economic Education and $192,753 each year to support the Education Policy Institute. The funding supports their work and does not create direct household payments or new eligibility rules.

More support for library programs

Libraries can use $1 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for summer reading materials or programs, or for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math materials. When budget cuts are required, the Library of Virginia’s rent plan is excluded from reduction-target calculations.

More support for marine careers

Virginia provides $125,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for a marine conservation fellowship program. It also provides $225,000 each year for Virginia Sea Grant workforce and professional development, including state-agency fellowships. The law does not set individual award amounts.

More support for minority doctoral graduates

The government provides $170,000 in general funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Virginia’s participation in a regional effort to increase minority doctoral graduates. The law does not set individual student awards.

More support for regional job centers

Virginia Western Community College receives $261,370 and four positions each year for work at two regional education and training centers. The state also provides $345,000 each year for rent at the Botetourt County center. Other state funding for workforce training and community education facilities must have at least one-third local or private matching funds, approved by the State Board for Community Colleges. The Rural Horseshoe Initiative receives $250,000 and nine positions each year.

More support for school programs

The state supports one full-time gifted-education instructional position for every 1,000 students, based on adjusted March 31 enrollment. School divisions must spend the established funding on approved gifted programs. Tobacco Region school divisions must also work together to seek the highest possible reimbursements for eligible E-Rate costs; more money is not guaranteed.

More support for unemployment offices

More support for veterinary college programs

Virginia can transfer up to $255,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to Virginia Tech. The money supports the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine and its equine programs.

More support for Virginia marine research

Virginia funds marine science, fisheries, aquaculture, and advisory work in FY2027 and FY2028. The aquaculture center receives $637,876 and 6.85 positions each year and must coordinate with the state's marine repletion program. Other support includes $159,579 yearly for fishery grants, $188,086 and one position yearly for marine institute technology, and $50,000 yearly for a mariculture advisory program and the Potomac Science Center. The higher-education council also collects Virginia Sea Grant dues and pays them from funds set aside for that purpose.

More support for Virginia State University

The state funds Virginia State University programs, faculty goals, and serious campus repairs in FY2027 and FY2028. Funding includes $3.79 million each year for degree programs, $1.3 million each year for manufacturing and logistics, and up to $600,000 each year for repairs. Other grants support more degrees and faculty qualifications; they do not set student aid or tuition.

More support for Virginia teachers

Virginia provides $2.44 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for teacher-quality grants. It also funds training for principals and teachers, including $413,000 yearly for principal development and $366,000 yearly for training on high-needs students. The state must help school divisions update vocational classes and teaching methods.

More targeted job training opportunities

The law funds targeted science and technology internships, maritime workforce training, and pre-hire training for construction and other workers. The programs receive specific grants, including $500,000 each year for construction pre-hire training. The law does not set individual participant payments or general eligibility rules.

More time to spend school funds

Eligible localities can carry unused state education aid into FY2028 and FY2029, but must meet the required local effort and program matches for the prior year. The carried money must be appropriated to the school division for the following year's spending. Unspent textbook funds remaining on June 30, 2027, or June 30, 2028, can also carry forward for the same textbook purpose.

More training for health workers

Virginia funds nursing partnerships with $250,000 each year at the state level and $191,884 each year at Northern Virginia Community College. The partnerships aim to increase the number of licensed nurses and nursing faculty. The state also provides $475,000 each year for sonographer training labs and $1.05 million each year for health science and technology education at four community colleges. Pharmacy training and research receive $500,000 each year. Virginia Commonwealth University must submit a family medicine residency plan by July 1 each year and work with the University of Virginia to offer Southwest Virginia training experiences. These funds support programs, not set payments to students.

More training for in-demand jobs

The state funds job training at community colleges across Virginia. Annual grants include $130,005 for advanced manufacturing, $115,130 for a job retraining center, and $100,000 each for career training at two Laurel Ridge campuses. Solar training receives $296,314, and aviation maintenance training receives $3.11 million and two staff positions. Automotive and building maintenance training receives $500,000. High-demand regions receive $7.75 million each year, with employers required to contribute matching support. The state also makes at least $664,647 available each year for statewide training institutes. Early childhood training and related college programs receive $350,000 each year, including $100,000 for early childhood instruction and equipment.

New graduate programs at Wise

Virginia's higher education council must review the University of Virginia's College at Wise software engineering curriculum on its merits, without tying the review to state funding. Wise can offer master's degree programs, but the council must review each new program. The law does not guarantee approval or change tuition or student aid.

Norfolk State keeps unused funds

Norfolk State University can carry unspent balances from specified academic programs and institutes past June 30. The money is reappropriated for the next year and can support educational or auxiliary activities.

One-time help for college restructuring

The state provides $20 million in FY2027 for one-time restructuring at public colleges and universities. Institutions submit proposals, and state and legislative officials review them and decide how to allocate the money. The funding goes to institutions, not directly to households.

Reimbursements for public college purchases

The state provides $2,871,599 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for payments to certified colleges. Each college’s share depends on its state-approved credit-card purchases of $5,000 or less in the previous fiscal year. The payments go to colleges, not directly to households.

Schools no longer pay fire inspection fees

Public and private schools no longer pay the Virginia State Fire Marshal’s permit or inspection fees. The law does not state how much schools save.

Set aside funds for workforce programs

The Governor must set aside 15% of certain federal workforce funds for state workforce strategy and programs. Unused Rapid Response funds also move into the fund at the end of the federal funding cycle. The Secretary of Labor must report on its use and results each year by December 15.

State funds college authorization program

The government provides $200,000 in nongeneral funds in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for coordination and administration of Virginia’s State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement program. The money supports program operations, not direct student payments.

State match for supported employment

The state must use budgeted non-federal funds to match the federal Supported Employment grant when a match is required. The law does not state the match amount or set an individual payment.

State plans a child care center

The law provides $35 million in FY2027 for a new state agency building and related work. It also requires continued planning for a standalone child care center in Richmond. The planned 15,000-square-foot center is intended to serve up to 150 children of state employees; the law does not guarantee that services are operating.

State plans education and job training

Virginia continues its talent-pathways planning grant program, with no new funding amount stated. It provides $2.23 million each year to support the Office of Education and Labor Market Alignment. The office guides state education and workforce investments, especially those using general funds.

Training for state workers and auditors

Virginia provides $1.86 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Virginia Management Fellows internship and management-training program. Unspent funds can stay with the program. The State Inspector General’s Office must also run training and continuing education for internal auditors.

Unemployment fund spending priorities

The law sets an order for spending money in the Special Unemployment Compensation Administration Fund. It prioritizes interest on federal Treasury loans for unemployment benefits, then essential Virginia Employment Commission services, especially if federal funding falls. Capital projects and the discretionary fund come later. These priorities do not change an individual's unemployment eligibility or benefit amount.

Universities support regional development

The University of Mary Washington can make an agreement with the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance to support regional economic development and research. Virginia also provides $950,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 to help create the University of Virginia Economic Development Accelerator. The provisions do not set direct payments or specific household or small-business eligibility rules.

Business grants can support solar

Enterprise Zone real-property investment grants can support a business property project that includes rooftop solar or solar canopies over parking lots. The law does not set a separate household payment or grant amount for solar.

Cannabis applicants get fee protections

After a licensing lottery, the Authority must keep an unsuccessful application for one year and consider it for licensing periods that begin during that year. It cannot charge another application fee for the retained application, but applicants must provide requested information within 14 calendar days or risk denial. The Board can refund or credit certain mistaken or unused license fees, and must prorate a refund when a natural disaster destroys licensed premises; refunds are due within three years after collection.

Cloud company gets infrastructure grant

Virginia puts $7,717,312 into a cloud computing grant fund in FY2028. The grant supports the company already eligible for the program. Existing eligibility rules, payment calculations, and the overall payment cap still apply. The grant does not go directly to households.

Funding for business startup and loans

Virginia provides $65,000 each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for the Business One-Stop Program. The Small Business Financing Authority receives $1,321,337 in nongeneral funds each year. These funds support business services and financing, but do not set a payment or loan amount for any business.

Grants back business investment projects

Virginia funds investment performance grants with $2,949,000 in FY2027 and $1,789,000 in FY2028. It also puts $954,500 yearly into grants for eligible shipping and logistics headquarters projects. Eligible financial-services projects receive support from a fund with $1,404,243 in FY2027 and $1,495,318 in FY2028. These grants go to businesses or projects, not directly to households.

Grants for large animal veterinarians

The state provides $450,000 in FY2027 and $450,000 in FY2028 for large animal veterinary grants. Unspent money carries over for the same purpose. The law does not state individual grant amounts.

Henrico gets a site fund

The law creates a fund for site replacement and Henrico County economic development. Grants to the county's Economic Development Authority can use only specified county deposits and related interest. Remaining balances generally return to the state general fund after the fiscal year following their fifth deposit anniversary.

More funding for Virginia trade programs

Virginia provides $4.6 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to carry out its International Trade Plan. The money goes to the state economic development authority, not directly to households.

More funding to preserve working lands

Virginia deposits $437,500 into the Farmland and Forestland Preservation Fund in FY2027 and another $437,500 in FY2028. The law does not state individual award amounts or who can receive them.

More grants for brownfield cleanup

Virginia deposits $2.25 million into its brownfield restoration fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Site cleanup grants can be up to $500,000. The program must prioritize sites with redevelopment potential and benefits for surrounding communities.

More grants for technology and research

Virginia provides $3 million each year for technology-based entrepreneurship and $5 million each year for research and projects with strong job-creation potential. It also provides $1 million yearly for technology industry initiatives and $1 million yearly for unmanned systems development. These funds support business and research activity, not direct household payments.

More room for cannabis retail stores

The Board can allow retail marijuana stores to use up to 2,500 square feet of floor space, up from 1,500 square feet. The law does not state how the larger limit changes customer prices.

More support for state economic development

Virginia provides $200,000 each year for cybersecurity at its economic development authority. It also provides $1.25 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to reorganize the authority’s economic development services. These funds support state agency operations, not direct household payments.

More support for Virginia forest landowners

Virginia provides $1.85 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for the Reforestation of Timberlands Program. Participating private forest landowners may benefit, but the law does not state individual award amounts or eligibility details.

Protections for hemp and cannabis businesses

Virginia protects accountants from state liability solely for accounting services to licensed marijuana businesses. They are not required to provide those services. Valid, active industrial hemp registrations issued before July 1, 2027, remain valid until their current expiration dates and count as issued by the Cannabis Control Authority’s Board.

Rocket Lab ground lease capped at $1

Virginia Space may charge Rocket Lab no more than $1 per year for the specified ground lease around its assembly, integration, and testing facility. The cap applies during the performance period in the agreement signed August 15, 2023.

Auto rental fees support state budget

Virginia deposits revenue from a specified auto rental fee into the state general fund after the Department of Taxation recovers its direct administrative costs. The law does not change the fee renters pay.

Aviation fuel avoids regional sales tax

Virginia prohibits collection of the regional additional sales tax on aviation fuel. The law does not state a tax rate or a separate start date.

Early vehicle tax relief for qualifying towns

The Secretary of Finance may pay certain towns their personal property tax relief reimbursements early for amounts due on or after July 1, 2006. A town must meet all listed conditions, including qualifying 2004 and 2006 tax due dates, a qualifying 2004 reimbursement, cash-method accounting, and fiscal hardship. The payment goes to the town, not directly to taxpayers.

Marijuana tax money returns to localities

The state must return marijuana tax money to the locality where it was collected through quarterly payments. If an establishment crosses a local boundary, the affected localities share the money based on their portions of the establishment. These payments go to local governments, not directly to households.

More local control of tax revenue

Qualifying municipalities receive sales-tax revenue from transactions at certain public facilities they financed with bonds issued from July 1, 2001, through June 30, 2006. Regional transportation commissions also receive fuel-tax revenue based on the shares collected in their member jurisdictions. The law does not state the total amounts or require direct household payments.

More support for local tax offices

Local commissioners of the revenue and their offices receive $28,949,013 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for tax value certification, office operations, and state tax services. The Virginia Department of Taxation also pays no fees for remote access to land records, and vendor contracts must exempt the department from access and subscription fees.

New fund supports Virginia tax system replacement

The law creates the Project Lighthouse Fund to pay costs of replacing the Department of Taxation’s revenue management system. Any money left at the end of a fiscal year stays in the fund for this work. The law states no funding amount or effective date.

Payment timing for old vehicle-tax relief

The Commonwealth must reimburse qualifying localities by August 15 of each fiscal year. The rule covers localities with qualifying vehicle-tax billing dates between January 1 and June 30, 2004, that received a related reimbursement during that same period. It changes when localities are paid, not when households pay taxes.

Recycling equipment keeps tax credit

Businesses can claim a Virginia tax credit for machinery and equipment used in advanced recycling and processing recyclable materials. It applies to tax years that begin before January 1, 2027. The law does not state the credit amount.

Sales tax break for research centers

Federally funded research and development centers sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy do not pay Virginia sales tax on qualifying tangible personal property. The exemption began July 1, 2018.

Tax deduction for qualifying grid upgrades

Beginning with tax years starting January 1, 2026, Virginia taxpayers can deduct costs for qualifying grid upgrades needed to connect a triggering project. The same costs cannot also be deducted under another specified state rule.

Added fees when Virginia collects debts

When the Virginia Employment Commission collects a debt through the federal Treasury Offset Program, it can add its collection fees to the debt. The law does not state the fee amount.

Annual disclosures for cannabis board members

Virginia Cannabis Control Authority board members must file a personal-interest statement before taking office. They must file it again each year by February 1.

Court debts face stronger collection

Commonwealth’s attorneys can use staff, private attorneys, collection agencies, or government agencies to collect delinquent court-ordered fines, costs, penalties, and restitution. Collection costs for employed staff may come from collections and be divided between state and local amounts owed. Officers can hire licensed auctioneers to sell personal property taken for collection and can move it to an auction site inside or outside the county or city.

Extra fees for online court filings

The Virginia Supreme Court can charge an extra fee for each case filed online under its electronic filing rule. The law does not set the fee amount. The money supports statewide electronic filing systems.

Fees for marine license lists

People or organizations requesting a computerized list of marine licenses must cover the cost of making the copy. The Marine Resources Commission can also charge a reasonable fee for each record. The law sets no fee amount.

Higher fees for vehicle owners

Owners pay an additional $6.25 when registering each covered pickup truck, panel truck, or other covered motor vehicle. People whose driving privileges are reinstated pay a $100 fee to the Trauma Center Fund unless a waiver applies. The law waives the fee for specified suspensions before July 1, 2019.

Higher minimum fees for DMV services

DMV must charge at least $15 for a vehicle title and at least $20 for an original or replacement driver license; those amounts are minimums, not maximums. DMV also charges a $10 late vehicle-registration fee, subject to statutory exceptions. Mail renewals get a 10-day grace period, except for vehicles registered under the International Registration Plan. DMV may charge $10 for a first issuance of a REAL ID-compliant credential for federal use.

Pay $28 for process service

The Secretary of the Commonwealth charges $28 each time a person or entity requests service of process.

Penalties for fake DMV documents

It is unlawful to obtain, help someone obtain, or knowingly use certain DMV documents without meeting legal requirements. A violation involving a document used for an age-limited activity is a Class 2 misdemeanor; another violation is a Class 6 felony. The DMV Commissioner can cancel the document.

Permits required for state-property events

Events on property controlled by the Department of General Services need a permit. For expressive activity with 10 or more people, the event cannot disrupt a state government function. Casual visits and tourism are excluded from that group rule.

Possible fees for land services

Landowners receiving aerial herbicide spraying may pay the contract cost plus an administrative fee. Soil and water conservation districts may also charge landowners for services or equipment. Those charges cannot exceed district costs, and districts do not have to charge them. The law does not set fee amounts.

Vehicle fees help fund state budget

The law transfers $12,518,587 each year for two years from the emergency medical services fund to the general fund. The money comes from a $2 increase in the annual vehicle registration fee, raising vehicle owners’ costs.

Fees for wildlife license records

People or organizations requesting computerized lists of wildlife licenses pay copying costs and a reasonable fee for each record. The law does not set the fee amount.

Higher fees for Virginia vital records

Beginning July 1, 2026, a standard Virginia vital record costs $15. An expedited record search costs $53. The fee applies to each service requested.

Less notice for small unclaimed property

The Virginia State Treasurer does not have to publish notice for an unclaimed-property item worth less than $250. Owners keep their claim to the property, but may receive less public notice.

Private agents can collect smaller state debts

Virginia’s debt collection division can hire private agents to collect debts under $15,000. This changes how the state may collect a debt, but not the amount owed.

Short-term loan database may end

The State Corporation Commission can stop requiring a short-term loan database only if its current vendor stops operating and the Commission finds that another vendor is not feasible. The Commission must then change its rules. The law does not change loan terms.

In-person rules for medical cannabis

Cannabis processors and dispensing facilities can provide products in person to qualifying Virginia residents or temporary residents with a valid written certification, or to their registered agents. The provided text cuts off before explaining who may receive products for a minor or vulnerable adult.

A $150 fee for written authorizations

People requesting a written authorization under the cited Virginia law pay a $150 fee.

Fees for state employee housing

State employees living in state-owned or state-leased housing must pay a fee set by their agency. The state may waive it in exceptional cases documented as being in the Commonwealth’s best interest. The law does not state the fee amount.

New fee for some property records

Virginia charges a $20 fee for each covered deed or certificate of satisfaction recorded. Half of the fee goes to the general fund, and half supports an agricultural conservation cost-share program.

Up to $150 for timeshare foreclosures

A Virginia Commissioner of Accounts may charge up to $150 for a timeshare estate foreclosure. The fee must be reasonable and cover foreclosure costs.

Citizen board members lose pay

Executive-branch agencies cannot pay citizen members for serving on boards, commissions, councils, and other nonlegislative bodies. Members who received this pay lose it. The law does not state how much pay is affected.

Fewer job protections for commission staff

Employees paid from the American Revolution 250 Commission appropriation are not covered by the Virginia Personnel Act. They also are not entitled to severance or unemployment benefits promised in their hiring agreements.

Higher tuition rules for out-of-state classes

Old Dominion University can create a fund for TELETECHNET classes offered outside Virginia. Tuition and fees from those students must exceed the program’s direct and indirect costs. The university sets the rates and keeps extra revenue for the program; the law does not state a specific price increase.

Less severance after cannabis agency transfers

A state employee who transfers to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority and accepts a job there is not treated as involuntarily separated. The employee cannot receive Workforce Transition Act severance on that basis. Other severance eligibility depends on staying employed through the employee’s Transition Date.

Less severance for some new state hires

New Virginia Employment Commission hires covered by this rule cannot receive transitional severance benefits unless their funding source requires them. Some listed agencies and programs can also adjust position levels as workload and funding change.

Lower pay and travel reimbursements for court officials

Circuit and General District Court judges qualify for commuting mileage reimbursement only when the courthouse is outside their home county or city and more than 25 miles away. The state also cannot pay or repay covered prosecutors’ and public defenders’ salaries above the salary paid to circuit court judges. Localities can still add to salaries for locally elected officers and their employees.

New fee for public workers’ payroll deductions

The Department of Accounts can charge up to 15 cents for each payroll deduction it administers through the Supplemental Insurance and Annuities program. Employers cannot reimburse workers for this fee.

New fees for auditor training

The State Inspector General’s Office can charge participants in internal-auditor training events. Fees can cover the direct cost of hiring instructors. The law does not set a fee amount.

New fees for literacy material reviews

The University of Virginia's Virginia Literacy Partnership may charge applicants a reasonable fee to review literacy materials for the Department of Education. It must set a fee schedule before collecting fees, and the charges may cover review costs. The law does not state the fee amount.

New meal and parking charges

State employees must pay agency-set charges for meals served in state facilities. Charges must cover at least the food, direct labor, and utilities used to prepare and serve them; on-duty employees at the named correctional facilities are excluded. Agencies must also charge for parking when required at state-owned facilities, and covered agencies must charge for parking at leased offices in metropolitan Richmond. Higher education institutions are excluded from the leased-office rule, and the law does not state the fee amounts.

Out-of-state students pay course-cost rates

Out-of-state students taking Virginia community college distance courses must pay tuition and fees that bring in more than the direct and indirect cost of instruction. The State Board for Community Colleges sets the rates. The law does not state a specific price or increase.

Public college coaching pay cap

A Virginia public college cannot provide more than $100,000 in general fund money for one athletic coaching salary. General-fund amounts above the cap phase down by 20% per year for five years. The rule does not cap pay from other sources.

Retirement reimbursement limits for some workers

The Virginia Compensation Board cannot reimburse covered retirement contributions above the employer rate for the Commonwealth’s general classified workforce. Sworn State Police personnel are exempt. Employees or local government employers may have to cover costs above the allowed rate.

Electronic estimated tax payments

For payments made on or after July 1, 2022, some people required to pay estimated taxes must pay electronically. This applies when a covered payment is over $1,500, or annual tax liability is over or expected to exceed $6,000 for a tax year starting on or after January 1, 2022. The Department must give advance notice. The Tax Commissioner may grant a waiver after a written request if electronic payment creates an unreasonable burden.

Fees for Virginia tax requests

Virginia charges $275 for each request for a tax letter ruling, except requests from local assessing officers. A tax-return copy may cost $5. Each offer-in-compromise request for doubtful tax collectability costs $50. The Tax Commissioner may waive the copy or compromise fee for unreasonable burden after a written request.

Local school and transit taxes

Counties and cities in Planning District 8 can seek voter approval for a local sales tax of up to 1 percent for school projects, public transportation, or both. They can also add a use tax at the local sales-tax rate after adopting the required ordinance. Food and essential personal hygiene products are excluded from these taxes.

Local school taxes outside District 8

Counties and cities outside Planning District 8 can seek voter approval for a school sales tax of up to 1 percent. A locality that has imposed the corresponding sales tax can also add a use tax at that rate. Food and essential personal hygiene products are excluded. Depending on financing, the taxes end when related bonds or loans are repaid or by a local end date no more than 20 years after adoption.

Local tax on marijuana purchases

Each Virginia locality must enact an added tax of 1 percent to 3.5 percent on taxable marijuana sales. It starts on the first day of the second month after enactment and must remain in effect for at least three years. A county tax does not apply inside a town.

Possible tax on Stafford admissions

Stafford County can impose an admissions tax of up to 10 percent at a qualifying entertainment venue if the venue and county sign a memorandum of understanding. The venue must meet the law's land and licensing conditions. The authority expires July 1, 2019, if no qualifying venue in the county is subject to the tax.

Tax on Virginia marijuana purchases

Virginia charges a 6% state tax on taxable marijuana purchases before July 1, 2029. Starting that day, the rate is 8%. The tax is added to applicable sales and use taxes. Some sales are exempt, including sales between marijuana businesses and qualifying medical products.

Labs may pay for testing services

The state may charge for certain required water tests when the act does not already fund them. It may also charge laboratories for required certification. Fees cannot exceed the cost of providing the service, and the Governor must approve a plan before water-testing fees increase.

Registration rules for manufactured home communities

Manufactured home communities operating in Virginia on July 1, 2026, must register within 180 days. Owners must disclose the registration rule when selling a community. They must also give the state 180 days’ notice before ending community operations.

Annual fees for Virginia corporations

Virginia corporations pay $100 per year if they have up to 5,000 authorized shares. Larger corporations pay $30 for each additional 5,000 shares or part of that amount, up to $1,700 per year. Three-fourths of the fee receipts go to the state general fund.

Businesses must file tax forms electronically

Employers and businesses must electronically file specified tax returns, forms, and payments in the format set by the Tax Commissioner. Start dates vary by tax and filer type, from 2012 through July 1, 2024. The Commissioner may grant a written-request waiver for undue hardship; employer annual-report waivers are available for an unreasonable burden. These rules change filing methods, not tax rates.

New fee for license applications

Starting July 1, 2026, the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation can charge $7.25 with each initial license, renewal, or reinstatement application. The fee ends after June 30, 2030, and pays for agency software upgrades or replacement.

New fees and penalties for hemp sellers

A business pays a nonrefundable $1,000 fee for each regulated hemp retail location application and annual renewal. A seller can also face a civil penalty of up to $500 for each day a topical hemp product lacks the required warning. The penalty does not apply to qualifying products made before July 1, 2023.

New fees for hemp businesses

Industrial hemp businesses pay nonrefundable fees for registration applications. Grower registration or renewal costs $150; processor registration costs $200; dealer registration costs $250. The law does not specify how often processors or dealers must renew.

New fees for mine and well permits

A coal mine license application, renewal, or transfer costs $350. A mineral mine application costs $400 on paper or $330 electronically; the fee for sand or gravel mining on five acres or less is $100 on paper or $80 electronically. A new oil or gas well permit application costs $600, and a permit modification costs $300. The law does not say how these fees compare with earlier amounts.

Permit fees for food businesses

The health commissioner can set plan-review and yearly permit renewal fees for hotels, campgrounds, summer camps, and restaurants. Each fee can be no more than $40. K–12 public schools are excluded.

Record and liability rules for marijuana businesses

The Board must set recordkeeping rules for marijuana licensees and sellers of regulated hemp products. Licensed marijuana businesses must keep accurate records and make them available for inspection. Retail stores and microbusinesses generally must make records available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; unavailable records are generally due within 24 hours after a request. Licensees can be held liable for work-related violations by their agents or employees.

Welcome Center displays may cost businesses

Businesses using display space at state Welcome Centers may have to pay a fee. The Virginia Tourism Authority can collect only what is needed to fund center operations. The law does not set a fee amount.

Approval needed to enter legislative facilities

The Clerks of the House and Senate control access to specified parking and office spaces at 9th and Broad Streets and Old City Hall. No one can enter without approval from one of the clerks.

Approval required for Carillon construction

Structures, improvements, or renovations on state property at the Carillon in Richmond need General Assembly approval before work can happen. The rule applies to this specific site.

Breaks Park cabin project ends

The law ends authorization for a Department of Conservation and Recreation cabin project at Breaks Interstate Park. It names no replacement project or new funding amount.

Extra charges on unpaid election penalties

People or groups with unpaid election-related charges or civil penalties must pay applicable interest, collection fees, and late penalties. The added charges continue while the amount remains unpaid. The law does not state their amounts.

Fees for bulk sex registry data

State Police must set a reasonable fee for bulk transfers of public sex offender registry information. Transfers to the Statewide Automated Victim Notification system are free. Fees help pay registry administration costs, but the law does not state the fee amount.

Fewer required drug assessments for youth

Juvenile justice agencies no longer have to provide drug screening and assessment as part of court-ordered investigations. The law does not name a replacement service.

Historic attraction grants require matches

Groups receiving covered state money for historic or commemorative attractions must provide an acceptable local or private match. The match must be worth at least as much as the state grant and can be cash or in-kind. Some appropriations are excluded from this rule.

Less public access to capital records

Some emails and other records shared by members of the state capital planning advisory committee and their staff are exempt from Virginia’s public records law. The exemption covers specified capital funding, project cost, authorization, and transfer matters.

Limits on Attorney General legal work

The Attorney General’s Office must use approved employees or other legally allowed workers for legal services. Law students and recent graduates need an institution-paid stipend. Unpaid interns can help only if they are not licensed to practice law in the listed places. The rules also cover work at Office-leased sites.

Limits on courthouse security spending

Virginia sheriffs’ offices cannot use the specified appropriation to buy certain courthouse security devices. They can pay deputies when operating equipment is part of their regular security work, but the money cannot pay extra staff whose main job is operating the devices. Judges cannot order courtroom security deputies beyond set limits without a written finding of a major security risk in the case. Commonwealth’s attorney offices also cannot use the specified funding item to employ investigative staff.

Limits on criminal court funding increases

The Office of the Executive Secretary can approve a Criminal Fund rate increase only when forecasts show no need for higher future appropriations, or enough funding is provided to cover expected costs. Planned rate changes must also appear in forecasting materials.

Limits on local ordinance enforcement funding

The Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority cannot use crime program funds to pay enforcement personnel to enforce local ordinances. The law limits how the authority can use those funds.

Local groups repay disaster overpayments

Localities must repay emergency mission overpayments within 60 days after written notice. Covered localities and eligible nonprofits must repay certain disaster-assistance overpayments, including interest, within 60 days after notice and a reimbursement request. Unpaid amounts may be withheld from eligible funds, and future prepayments may stop. A recipient paying no interest must certify that it earned none on the overpaid funds.

More screening in juvenile cannabis cases

Courts must order drug screening for juveniles found delinquent for the specified offense committed on or after January 1, 2000. A qualified counselor must assess a juvenile if screening shows substance abuse or dependence; the law does not say who pays. School officials must receive notice of certain petitions, and marijuana-related cases cannot use a summons procedure available for some other minor offenses.

New conditions for injury grant applicants

Applicants for state grants related to brain or spinal cord injuries must submit a plan to become self-sufficient by the end of the grant cycle. Applicants without a plan cannot be considered for funding.

New limits on water grant applications

The state must assess water project needs each year, beginning by June 30, 2027, and start annual grant solicitations by January 1, 2027. It must report grant needs, available funds, and gaps starting October 1, 2026. Starting with the 2028 solicitation, projects must appear in an earlier needs assessment to apply.

No risk-limiting audits for presidential elections

Virginia election officials cannot conduct risk-limiting audits for presidential elections or presidential nomination elections. The law does not state when this restriction begins.

Park must use its own funding

The state cannot use general fund money for Oak Hill State Park’s operations or capital improvements. The park must use its own revenue or donations to pay those costs.

Pause on new justice academies

From July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, the Board of Criminal Justice Services cannot approve or fund new criminal justice training academies. This limits the Board’s actions and does not create a new household duty.

Tighter rules for adult drug court funding

State money cannot support adult drug courts that serve only first-time substance abuse offenders or that leave out probation violators. Juvenile drug courts are exempt from this restriction.

Cannabis agency data gets fewer protections

Personal information systems maintained by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority are excluded from the state’s personal-information chapter. The law does not specify what replacement protections apply to information in those systems.

Data centers must limit cooling water

By July 1, 2027, the Department of Environmental Quality must set criteria for identifying water-scarcity areas. Before July 1, 2032, data centers in those areas must show they have minimized cooling-water use and use the best available water-efficient technology. New data centers in the Eastern Virginia Groundwater Management Area are also covered if they submit a complete air-permit application after January 1, 2027. Direct evaporative cooling requires Department approval of a primary technology.

Fewer organ donation brochures by mail

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles no longer has to mail an organ-donation brochure with every driver’s license renewal notice or application. Driver eligibility, fees, and organ-donation registration rules do not change.

Funds preserved for SNAP settlement

Virginia must carry forward unused funds as of June 30, 2026, when needed for the federal SNAP overissuance settlement. The money can only pay costs in the settlement agreement, which expires September 30, 2026. This does not directly change household SNAP benefits.

Limits on Medicaid waiver changes

Virginia health agencies cannot use the proposed individualized supports budget process for the specified Medicaid waiver programs without General Assembly approval. This rule limits agency action; it does not change participants’ benefit amounts.

Limits on school meal funding

A locality cannot receive school nutrition funds under this budget item if its schools sell competitive foods where funded meals are served while those meals are being served. The Superintendent of Public Instruction enforces the restriction. The law does not state how much funding could be affected.

Live-in caregivers face visit checks

Virginia must seek federal approval to remove the electronic visit verification exemption for live-in caregivers. If approved, affected caregivers who provide covered services must follow the verification rules. The law does not state a change to benefits or household costs.

Local cuts can reduce behavioral health funding

Community Services Boards and Behavioral Health Authorities cannot use new state funding to replace local contributions. If local support falls after new state funds are provided, the recipient loses the same amount of new funding. The commissioner may waive the rule for proven extreme hardship, using the stated employment, income, or property-value measures.

More oversight of health agencies and fees

The health department must require regional health planning agencies to get yearly independent audits of state spending. Before setting or changing nursing home license fees, the health commissioner must meet with stakeholders about phased-in fees and possible state support. The law sets no fee amount or required outcome.

State aid rules for special education and foster care

The state must deny Children’s Services Act pool funding to a locality that fails to meet federal and state rules for covered special education and foster care services. Children and families in an affected locality may have less access to services if funding is denied. The law does not state how much funding could be withheld.

TANF funds face tighter use limits

The Virginia Department of Social Services cannot start, expand, or change TANF-funded services beyond those authorized and funded in the law. Another act of the General Assembly or federal law can allow or require a different use.

Approval rules for public college programs

A Virginia public college can use money from this act for an academic program only when it has required approval. Some publicly funded off-campus teaching sites also need state review. Conditional approval can last up to one year; continued operation then needs approval through legislation or an appropriation. Several types of sites are exempt, including sites funded entirely with private, local, or federal money.

Limits on state support for adult classes

The state must reimburse general adult education providers using a fixed cost per student or per class. State funds cannot support vocational courses that do not offer credit. The law does not set a direct payment requirement for learners.

Court clerks lose some treasury payments

The State Comptroller cannot pay circuit court clerks for money that certain district courts or magistrates deposit directly into the State Treasury. Payments for money deposited directly by Circuit Courts continue.

Energy program fee for state agencies

Energy suppliers collect an administrative surcharge from state agencies that use Virginia's energy management program. The surcharge must match the Department of Energy's actual program costs; households are not charged directly under this provision.

Fees fund state purchasing system

Virginia’s statewide electronic purchasing system is funded through fees charged to state agencies, colleges, and vendors. The law does not state the fee amounts or how they are calculated.

Higher fees for air pollution permits

The law requires air emissions fees to cover the program’s direct and indirect costs. The first emissions-fee increase cannot exceed 30 percent over current rates. Fees change each year with the Consumer Price Index. Permit application fees are separate from annual fees and cannot be credited against them.

Lawmakers receive monthly office allowances

Each Virginia General Assembly member receives $1,250 per month for office expenses and supplies. Specified House and Senate leaders receive an additional $500 per month for official expenses.

Less state mileage repayment to localities

Virginia counties and cities cannot receive state reimbursement for mileage they pay to local electoral-board members. Localities can still pay mileage, but must cover it without this state repayment. The law gives no amount or start date.

Limits on alcohol fund revenue

The law limits which revenues can go into the fund for specified Alcoholic Beverage Control items. It excludes taxes collected by Virginia’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. The provision does not directly change household taxes, benefits, or prices.

Limits on pay for prisoner lawyers

Lawyers appointed to represent indigent prisoners can receive up to $55 per hour and $200 per day. For appointments covering more than one state prison, monthly billing is capped at $6,000, plus reasonable expenses.

Local governments cover more staff costs

The Compensation Board may deduct local shares of certain insurance and retiree health premiums from yearly reimbursements. It also deducts $80,000 each year from sheriffs and regional jails for jail risk-management training. State retirement reimbursements for certain local offices and facilities are limited, and employers pay contributions above the limit. Localities cannot use state reimbursements to replace specified local salary funds for affected members who were in service on June 30, 2012.

More approval for agency spending

State agencies generally cannot change an overhead surcharge billed to another agency unless the state budget includes the change. The Governor can act in an emergency or carry out approved actions after giving committee leaders at least five days’ notice. Agencies also need General Assembly approval before starting a new service that requires new property or equipment, or higher future operating costs.

New charges for state offices

The state charges 3% of lease costs to manage single-agency leases and 5% for master leases. Office space in state facilities costs $18.25 per square foot in each of the first two years, with possible extra maintenance charges. State agencies must pay rent invoices within 30 days; engineering and architectural services cost $201 per hour in each of the first two years, subject to exceptions.

New fee for land-applied biosolids

People responsible for land-applying covered exceptional-quality biosolids pay $3.75 per dry ton. The fee applies to material covered by state law. The State Water Control Board can change or end the fee.

New rules for agency payments

Agencies funded partly or fully by special funds must pay other state agencies for billed services from the relevant fund. The State Comptroller can also charge an agency $5 for each check or earnings notice if it fails to follow the state's electronic-payment efforts. These charges apply to agencies, not directly to households.

New state agency service charges

Participating state agencies pay $2,000 per full-time-equivalent employee and $800 per wage employee in each of the first two years for human resource services. The service center must recover its costs through those charges. The department must also consider each participating agency’s claims history when setting workers’ compensation premiums; the law does not say whether those premiums rise or fall.

Quarterly reports for water grants

Owners with covered water-quality grants must report expected payments every quarter for the current and next fiscal years. The Department must compare those forecasts with available funds and send them to specified legislative committee chairs. The reporting rule does not create a new household benefit.

Shortline rail funding capped at $4 million

Virginia may provide up to $4 million from the Highway Construction Fund to the shortline railway program in FY2027 and up to $4 million in FY2028. The program must follow state law.

State agencies face system service charges

Agencies that use the state payroll service pay charges based on employee type. For wage employees, the charge is $149.94 in FY2027 and $169.28 in FY2028; for salaried employees, it is $176.43 and $199.15. Users of state enterprise applications also pay a surcharge set by state officials, but the law does not set its amount. A Treasury loan can cover application costs before the related fund collects enough money; collections repay the loan.

State repays federal overcharges

The law provides state funds as needed to refund the federal government for over-recoveries found in Virginia’s indirect-cost plans. The amount depends on the overcharges identified and is not stated.

Stricter rules for state grants and loans

State agencies can lend appropriated money to nonstate groups only when state law or a budget act allows it, or the Governor approves. Nonstate agencies generally must operate in Virginia, serve a public purpose, and provide matching contributions to receive state funds. Grants of $150,000 or more are paid in up to 12 monthly installments; smaller grants are paid in one installment after requirements are met. State-funded spending must follow referenced procurement rules.

Tighter rules for state property deals

State agencies generally need to confirm that their budget covers a property lease before acquiring or occupying space. Selling or leasing surplus state property requires specified approval or notice, and an objection can require approval in an appropriation act. Covered economic-development property must be appraised by more than one independent licensed appraiser and cannot be sold below the appraised fair market value.

VDOT cannot recover some federal costs

Until the Federal Highway Administration approves VDOT’s indirect cost plan, VDOT cannot recover certain statewide and agency indirect costs from that agency. The law does not directly change household taxes or benefits.

Veterans agency repays state advance

The Department of Veterans Services must use leftover nongeneral-fund money, after expenses, to repay a state working-capital advance. Veterans and households do not have to make these payments.

Retail cannabis sales wait until 2027

Before July 1, 2027, licensees cannot sell marijuana, marijuana products, immature plants, or seeds at retail. Pharmaceutical processors and cannabis dispensing facilities can still serve qualifying patients, their registered agents, and, for minors or vulnerable adults, their parents or legal guardians under the stated rules.

Limits on aid for new transit routes

After a new transit system or route has operated for two years, state operating aid cannot exceed the amount allowed by the statutory funding formula. The law does not end that aid.

Waterworks face a capped assistance fee

Community waterworks pay a fee to cover the Waterworks Technical Assistance Program’s operating costs. The fee cannot exceed $3 per connection. The law does not say whether household water bills will change.

New fee on public banks

The State Treasurer may charge qualified public depositories an annual administrative fee of up to one-half of one basis point of their average public deposits over 12 months. Fees collected from all depositories cannot exceed $200,000 in any year.

New fees for state investments

The State Treasurer can charge managed state investment accounts up to 20 basis points. Certain higher-education bond participants and entities using approved alternative financing can also pay fees up to 10 basis points of the amount financed, plus direct issuance costs. The fees go to the general fund.

Localities repay some improper assistance

A locality must repay the state for certain public assistance paid to someone who was not eligible. It does not have to repay when specified department errors caused the payment, or when it used due diligence but received incorrect or incomplete information. The recipient does not owe this repayment.

Medicaid provider payments follow new timing

Virginia moves the last quarterly payments for certain hospital programs from June to July. Medicaid managed-care organizations receive monthly payments during the first week of the following month. Certain Medicaid and FAMIS provider remittances are delayed by one week each June, except for providers paid through monthly capitation. These rules change provider payment timing, not household benefit amounts.

Rural hospitals lose certain extra payments

Virginia’s Medicaid agency cannot make these private enhanced payments to a rural hospital that no longer operates labor and delivery. The restriction applies when the hospital had an operating labor and delivery unit on January 1, 2026. It limits payments to the hospital, not patients’ bills directly.

State share of local service costs limited

The Virginia Department of Social Services cannot change local social-services funding rules in a way that increases the state’s share of program costs. An act of the General Assembly or federal law can authorize or require a change. The rule does not directly change household benefits.

UVA Medical Center operating funds

The University of Virginia Medical Center cannot use operating money for capital projects. This limits how the center can spend its operating funds; the law does not change patient charges or access.

Apprenticeship project funding ends

The law ends authorization for the Advanced Manufacturing Apprentice Academy and Regional Centers of Excellence project. It moves $12.5 million in unused bond authorization to the state’s 2020 capital construction pool. The transferred authorization is not a payment to households.

Blind rehabilitation grants have a limit

For federal fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028, the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired cannot request more than $14,420,492 in federal vocational rehabilitation grants in a year without prior written approval from the budget director.

Colleges pay toward retirement system debt

Since July 1, 2019, covered public colleges must pay the part of the state retirement rate used to reduce unfunded retirement debt for certain converted positions. The rule applies to positions that existed by December 31, 2011, were converted to ORPHE-eligible positions on or after January 1, 2012, and are filled by employees who choose ORPHE. It does not apply to new positions established after January 1, 2012. Colleges must report covered positions and employee choices by April 1 each year.

Health workforce funding requires reports

The Virginia Health Workforce Development Authority must submit its audited financial report and required information within 30 days after completion. If it misses the July 1 deadline, it receives no funding from this budget item for that fiscal year until it submits the materials.

Higher education funds shift to state budget

The law moves an estimated $10.67 million from the College Partnership Laboratory School Fund to the general fund by June 30, including first-year interest. It also transfers $5 million from a higher education planning fund to the general fund by July 15, 2026. The law does not state how these transfers affect schools, services, or students.

Limits on college access spending

The Commonwealth Savers Plan cannot raise administrative spending for college access programs above its legislative appropriation. It also cannot make new commitments beyond those already in place on June 30, 2025.

Limits on lab school state funding

College partnership laboratory schools must show progress toward financial sustainability by the end of their first approval period. After their first contract renewal, they cannot need extra state funding for operations, except for school-division Direct Aid to Public Education. The Board of Education reports progress each year.

New fees for college bond financing

The Treasurer may charge colleges in a private college financing program an annual fee of up to 10 basis points of each project’s outstanding financed principal. Participating colleges also pay their share of direct bond issuance costs. The law does not state whether colleges will pass these costs on to students.

New financial rules for public colleges

College athletics programs must pay for yearly or as-needed reviews of their financial reports. The statewide cost is estimated at $450,000 per year. Public colleges without a state management agreement must also meet financial and administrative standards, including routing at least 75% of purchase dollars through the state purchasing system from registered vendors. The law does not say whether these costs raise student fees.

Private school payments rise more slowly

Beginning July 1, 2026, locality reimbursement rates for private day education services cannot rise by more than 2.5% a year. The cap is measured against the prior year's rate, using the FY2026 maximum allowable amount as the starting point. It limits local payments, not tuition charged directly to families.

School divisions pay for efficiency reviews

A Virginia school division may ask the Department of Planning and Budget to help arrange an efficiency review. The Director decides whether to provide help. A division that takes part must pay the full cost, but the law does not state the amount. Taking part is not required.

Business site funds move to general budget

The law transfers an estimated $80.8 million from the Virginia Business Ready Sites Acquisition Fund to the general fund by July 15 in the first year. It also transfers an estimated $1.84 million from the Property Analytics grant fund by June 30, plus first-year interest. The law does not state how these transfers affect specific projects or grants.

Cannabis license and permit fees

The Cannabis Control Authority Board can charge application, license, and permit fees for marijuana businesses. The law does not set the fee amounts.

Less state aid for relocating businesses

State assistance should not support a company expanding or relocating in one Virginia community while it closes facilities in another. The Secretary of Commerce and Trade must give specified legislative committee chairs a written reason for any exception.

More marijuana ads fall under state rules

The definition of marijuana advertising now covers messages meant to promote marijuana, marijuana products, plants, or seeds. Rules that use this definition can reach more advertising activity.

New labor rules for cannabis businesses

Cannabis businesses applying for or renewing a license must maintain a labor agreement with a bona fide labor organization. The agreement must bar picketing, work stoppages, and boycotts against the business. Applicants must file signed attestations, and renewal attestations must be signed within 10 days before filing. Cannabis processors and dispensing facilities must also set policies for pre-hire and regular random employee drug screening.

Stricter cannabis locations and transfers

Each cannabis license covers one business location, and transfers or ownership changes need prior written Board approval. Retail stores and microbusinesses generally cannot locate within 1,000 feet of a hospital, school, college, or child day program, or seriously harm nearby homes. For five years after an impact license is issued, owners generally cannot transfer more than 49% of a controlling interest; a limited family estate-planning exception may be set by Board rules.

Tobacco sellers face registration rules

Starting January 1, 2021, a tobacco distributor must register if Virginia tobacco-product sales exceed $100,000 or reach 200 separate transactions in a calendar year. Sales by commonly controlled people or businesses count together. Federal law may require a different minimum.

Data centers face property assessments

Local assessors must value data center fixtures classified as real estate at 100% of fair market value using the cost approach. The law does not set a property tax rate or state the resulting bill.

Electronic filing for estate returns

Beginning January 1, 2020, an estate or trust income tax return must be filed electronically when an income tax preparer prepares the annual return. This changes the filing process, not the estate’s or trust’s tax liability.

Less money kept from charity tax gifts

For voluntary contributions made through Virginia income tax returns for tax years starting on or after January 1, 2003, the Tax Department may keep up to 5% of contributions to each organization for administration. The total kept from all organizations cannot exceed $50,000 in a tax year. The retained amount reduces what the organizations receive.

Localities may pay for assessor training

The Virginia Department of Taxation may recover the direct cost of property-assessment training from localities that take part. Local officials and board members still receive payment for their actual attendance expenses. The law does not set a fee amount.

More tax paperwork for businesses

Corporations pay $100 for each request to change their tax filing method, though the Tax Commissioner may waive the fee for unreasonable burden after a written request. Covered payment settlement companies must electronically send duplicate tax reports to Virginia within 30 days after the federal deadline. Projects expecting historic rehabilitation tax credits face audits by Virginia-licensed certified public accountants.

Penalties for cannabis tax violations

A late marijuana tax return brings a penalty of 5% of the tax due for the first 30 days. Another 5% applies for each additional 30 days or part of 30 days, up to 25%. A false return filed with willful intent to defraud brings an added penalty of 50% of the proper tax due. A licensee who knowingly and willfully violates these rules loses its license for three years.

Electronic payments for frequent recipients

People who receive six or more payments each year from the State Treasurer must receive them electronically. The Treasurer chooses the payment method. The State Comptroller may allow another method when circumstances justify an exception.

Fees for probationers at diversion centers

The state provides $700,000 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for Department of Corrections diversion center operations. Probationers assigned to the centers pay fees that cover part of their housing costs. The law does not state each person’s fee.

Possible wellness fee for Virginia lawyers

The Supreme Court of Virginia can set an annual fee of up to $30 for Virginia State Bar members. The fee applies only if the Court adopts rules. The money supports wellness programs for attorneys, judges, and law students, and cannot replace existing judicial-branch funding.

Privacy protections for old marijuana records end

Covered marijuana-related misdemeanor records, including deferred and dismissed charges, generally are not open to the public. The law allows disclosure for listed purposes, including some criminal justice and employment checks. These privacy protections end July 1, 2026.

Two-person rule for certain toll lanes

Certain high-occupancy toll lanes must require at least two people in a vehicle for high-occupancy use. The rule covers facilities that meet the law’s specific construction, agreement, or location tests. The law does not set a toll amount.

More enforcement of child medical support

State agencies must identify medical support orders for children enrolled in Medicaid or FAMIS and take steps to enforce them. A noncustodial parent may have to provide medical support or repay Medicaid when an order requires contributions toward the child’s medical costs. The law does not set a new payment amount.

New debt collection options at hospitals

VCU Health can choose whether to use the Attorney General’s debt collection process. If it opts out, it can use private collectors and lawyers and settle or discharge accounts. UVA Medical Center can use private collectors if the University shows the Secretary of Finance that this is expected to cost less. These changes do not set new payment terms or change the amount owed.

New limits for medical cannabis patients

A written medical cannabis certification expires within one year, and a practitioner can set an earlier expiration. Patients cannot hold certifications from more than one practitioner at the same time. Patients or, when allowed, their parent or guardian can name someone to receive products; that person must register unless named on the certification. The Board can limit how many patients one agent serves.

New rules for Medicaid plans and reviews

Virginia changes Medicaid managed-care assignment rules; random assignments may stop when one plan has 40 percent of a region’s members. The state must also modify its emergency-room use program, though the law does not specify the new rules. Virginia must review behavioral health medicines for safe, approved use and may review members age 18 or younger who take three or more such drugs. After federal approval, applicants who do not want their tax returns used for renewal checks must opt out.

Changes to state worker payments

State employees may receive the IRS mileage rate for their first 15,000 official personal-car miles each fiscal year; later miles usually pay 13 cents per mile. The Comptroller may require pay by direct deposit or prepaid card, and some July paychecks follow a special timing rule. Full-time state employees cannot receive extra pay for service on covered boards, though they can get reasonable expense reimbursement. An elected official may give up state-funded salary so the money can pay office staff.

Driver education fees face a cap

A school division must follow the state’s standard driver-education program to receive state funding. A school board can charge a behind-the-wheel fee, but the fee plus state aid cannot exceed the actual average cost per pupil.

Leadership incentives can replace tuition grants

Virginia provides $372,899 in each of FY2027 and FY2028 to run the women’s leadership program at Mary Baldwin University. The program may offer financial incentives to participating Virginia-resident women. A student who receives an incentive cannot get a Tuition Assistance Grant. The law does not state the incentive amount.

Mixed leave and pay rules at colleges

Public college governing bodies may set age and service rules for voluntary faculty early retirement plans, with required state approval and legal review. Eligible institutions may also use private gifts and endowment income to add to classified employees’ pay. Full-time academic-year classified employees cannot be paid for unused sick leave, though eligible workers may receive or convert disability leave credits.

More college learning support and limits

Virginia Tech can use a separate fund for online courses, certificates, and degrees. Virginia students in these programs cannot also take classes at the Blacksburg or an extended campus. For students outside Virginia, tuition and fees must exceed teaching costs. Senior colleges must arrange community-college remediation for accepted students who need it; the law does not set who pays or the charge.

More flexibility for child-care centers

The state can let some child-care centers care for one more young child or two more children ages public-school eligibility through 12 per staff member. Centers using the change must tell families in writing, and federal rules still apply. The authority ends June 30, 2028.

New checks on state employee pay

State Police and covered executive employees need required approval before certain pay changes. Salary band changes and promotions also need funding approval or an appropriation. Covered employees may still receive performance-based salary increases of up to 10% in a fiscal year and bonuses of 0–5%. A circuit court clerk with uncorrected audit findings may not receive a salary increase, unless the Compensation Board finds extenuating circumstances.

New rules for local officer pay

The Compensation Board uses the higher of the latest census count or available population estimate when setting budgets for covered officers. An incumbent’s salary cannot fall because of a population decline during the officer’s term. Counties and cities can add pay for certain officers, but must cover the full cost. The Compensation Board cannot reimburse accumulated vacation time for employees of constitutional officers. For specified officers, July 2026 salaries use the tables in effect on June 30, 2026.

State workers get travel pay by direct deposit

State employees traveling on official business receive travel-cost reimbursements in the same bank account used for their net pay. The law changes how reimbursements are paid, not the amount workers receive.

Teaching certificate fees can change

The Board of Education can change teaching-certificate fees. Fees must account for the actual cost of issuing certificates, but the law does not state whether an applicant’s fee will rise or fall.

Transit employers can check criminal records

Transit district commissions and their contractors can check criminal records after offering someone a job. The check must be authorized and needed for public welfare or safety, such as deciding whether a conviction fits the job.

UVA sets medical center employee pay

The University of Virginia can set pay for its Medical Center employees under policies established by the Board of Visitors. The law does not require a pay increase or reduction and does not set pay amounts.

Higher tax on liquid nicotine

Virginia taxes covered liquid nicotine at 20 percent of its wholesale price starting July 1, 2024. Sellers may pass some or all of the tax to buyers. A separate 2.25-cent tax applied to each covered heated tobacco stick from January 1, 2021, through June 30, 2024; that tax period has ended.

Reviews can delay flagged tax refunds

Virginia holds a tax refund when a contracted entity flags it as potentially wrong, while the claim is reviewed. A refund found valid may be paid from the fund. The law sets no review deadline, so a flagged refund may be delayed.

Tax filing gets backup options

If a power or systems failure blocks the Department of Taxation’s electronic services near a tax due date, the Tax Commissioner may waive penalties, extend deadlines, or do both. Taxpayers can file estimated tax declarations with the state tax department or local revenue commissioner. The Department can provide local tax forms and property-tax books online instead of printing and distributing them.

Vehicle tax relief appears on bills

For certain state calculations tied to vehicle tax relief, Virginia excludes transfers, one-time payments, and money from selling state property or assets. A locality that uses specific rules to allocate state vehicle tax relief must explain those rules on tax bills and show the relief amount for each qualifying vehicle. The law does not set a household’s relief amount.

Food businesses face inspection fees

Covered food establishments may pay an annual inspection fee of up to $40, including applicable local fees. Businesses requesting overtime or holiday meat inspection must pay their share of the inspection cost. Qualifying out-of-state food businesses can get permits for certain temporary events, mobile units, or sales to related businesses; permanent locations still need the required permit.

Deadlines for marijuana license applicants

Selected applicants have 18 months to provide required location and property information, with one possible extension of up to six months for good-faith efforts. The Authority can grant temporary operating permits to qualifying buyers at covered auctions for up to 60 days, or longer if it decides. Applicants may buy products after final authorization while an inspection is pending, but cannot sell them until inspection is complete. The Authority has 90 days to approve or reject an application after receiving required information and background-check results.

Fees for cannabis business licenses

Marijuana license applicants must pay an application fee, fingerprint-processing costs, and a state license fee. Annual establishment fees must cover regulation costs, but the law does not state their amount. Cannabis processors and dispensing facilities need permits and application fees; each health service area can have one permit covering a processor and up to five facilities. A processor can apply for dual-use privileges after paying a one-time conversion fee and meeting Board requirements.

New tax duties for cannabis sellers

Cannabis sellers must collect marijuana tax and hold it for Virginia. People who owe the tax must file and pay by the 10th day of each month; a final return is due within 15 days after selling or closing the business. The Authority can require a bond or approved securities to protect tax collection. Sellers can claim a tax refund on returned purchases, except tax on amounts they keep.

Cannabis cases get changed police and court rules

The law changes which crimes can trigger a Class 5 felony for certain threats or obstruction and removes one marijuana-related basis for property seizure. Cannabis authority agents and correctional officers gain arrest powers for specified situations. Officers can testify about approved field tests, but defendants in certain trials must receive written notice of their right to request full chemical analysis. The law also removes a sentence-reduction option for one offense and requires reporting certain arrests of adult students to school superintendents.

Cap on energy aid administration

State and local agencies that run the Percentage of Income Payment Program cannot spend more than $5.5 million per year on administration. The cap does not set household payments or eligibility.

Changes to court staffing and case handling

Courts must use special justices for involuntary commitment hearings only in unusual cases, such as when no district court judge is available. Local governments can request delays to required court building work through June 30, 2028, with an exception for facilities involved in litigation by November 30, 2008. The law also sets procedures for appointing prosecutors from another jurisdiction, reallocates excess vacant clerk positions to courts with documented staffing needs, and allows electronic processing of criminal court orders.

Changes to juvenile justice funding

From July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, the state pauses new funding for covered local juvenile facilities, except approved emergency work for immediate life-safety needs. Localities may contribute more than the state share to juvenile programs, but their match cannot be lower. Localities must return unused program funds by October 1 of the next fiscal year, or the department can withhold a similar amount; returned money supports short-term grants, which are not guaranteed. The Department of Juvenile Justice must use support payments for children’s safety, care, and treatment, and reinvest savings from lower facility costs in treatment, education, rehabilitation, and related services.

Changes to local jail funding and staffing

Jails can lose per diem payments when federal inmates exceed contracted beds, unless the Corrections Director certifies a listed exception. The state can also limit operating funds for certain older jail projects and move or reduce temporary jail positions based on crowding. Reimbursements may be held back for missing or incorrect crime data, missing sex-offender compliance certification, or a late death report. The state restores withheld money when the required correction or report is confirmed during the same fiscal year.

Changes to Virginia road rules

Virginia’s transportation department can work with state and local police to enforce high-occupancy vehicle rules. Certain building work inside secured transportation department sites no longer needs Art and Architectural Review Board approval, but historic sites and sites being considered for historic status still need review.

Crime Commission gets protected case data

The Crime Commission can request government records and court case data for its official work, and participating reviewers can share sealed or expunged records for a case review. The transferred data is limited to research, evaluation, or statistics and must be protected from disclosure of identifying details. Aggregate information can be shared with specified government officials.

Cybersecurity safeguards for state agencies

The law funds cybersecurity training and creates a state planning committee to guide grant priorities. VITA also provides security scans, audits, and support to agencies that join its service center. VITA can access records held by the center, but it must protect them and follow federal law. VITA sets statewide security and privacy rules for agency cloud services.

Election offices and report filers face costs

Localities using paper pollbooks must record voting credit; for elections after November 2010, they may have to repay state costs for providing the books. The State Board of Elections must set a fee of up to $25 for each covered paper report, with a waiver for indigence. The state provides $3,336,286 in FY2027 to replace campaign-tracking and finance systems, and unspent money carries into the next fiscal year.

Federal grants for local crime programs

The law makes an estimated $4.8 million in federal anti-crime grants available in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Ten percent can pay for administration, and the state provides $452,128 each year for state-agency matching funds. Local governments that receive passed-through grants must provide a 25% match.

Historic Fort Whitworth site can transfer

The state may transfer about three acres at Central State Hospital, including the Fort Whitworth site, to the Petersburg Battlefields Foundation for no payment. The Foundation pays subdivision and transfer costs. The transfer needs required reviews and approvals, including the Governor’s written approval.

Historic rules eased during emergencies

During an emergency that threatens life, safety, or property, the state historic-preservation rule in the cited law does not apply. This changes the preservation requirements officials must follow during those emergencies.

Jails face new duties and payments

From July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, qualifying small localities receive $18 per day for local-responsible inmates and $12 for state-responsible inmates. The state also recovers costs for housing federal and other out-of-state contract inmates, with exceptions for specified cases and beds. Local and regional jails must screen each person admitted for mental illness and, if state-funded, report inmate counts at least weekly and use state crime codes. The state may fund jail and officer training if the General Assembly appropriates money; late cost-report information can lead to preparation costs being deducted from funds due.

Limits on forensic lab contracts

The Department of Forensic Science cannot sign lab service contracts that require extra general fund money for services available at lower cost. It also cannot sign contracts that add regulatory burdens for Department staff.

Local approval for correctional facility sites

A county, city, or town must support certain correctional facility sites before the state can buy the land or start construction. This applies to land the Commonwealth did not own on January 1, 1995. Site studies, real-estate options, and design work can happen first.

Local governments can limit cannabis sales

Local governments can set the hours for marijuana sales and must set penalties for breaking those rules. The state Board can refuse another store license when the number of local licenses could harm the public interest, safety, or welfare. It must consider local conditions, license counts, and objections from officials or residents.

Local jails get corrections grants

The state provides $225,000 each year for Central Virginia Regional Jail Authority programs and $600,000 each year for programs in Southwest Virginia Regional Jail Authority localities. State grants cover 75% of projected costs. Participating localities must pay the remaining 25%.

More closed meetings for public boards

Several public boards can discuss some matters in closed meetings, including private gifts, certain investments, saver personal information, and other sensitive agency matters. The Commonwealth Savers Plan Board must still disclose investments held, amounts invested, and present values. These rules protect some private or sensitive information but reduce public access to the discussions.

More flexibility for Lake Anna funds

The Lake Anna Advisory Committee can use money already set aside for hydrilla control on other Lake Anna health, safety, and welfare needs. The state can also move Board-designated funds from the Game Protection Fund to capital improvements, up to 50% of the specified revenue deposited in that fund.

More prisoner housing agreements

The Department of Corrections can contract to house more federal or out-of-state inmates in state facilities with the Governor’s approval and enough available beds. It can also make agreements with local and regional jails to house state-responsible offenders and transfer convicted state felons. These agreements follow the act’s stated budget rules; no contract amount is specified here.

More room for fire fund costs

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs can use up to 25% of available Fire Programs Fund revenue for administrative costs. Required payments from the fund must come first. The law does not state the fund’s total amount.

More tools for state forest protection

The State Forester can use uncommitted fire suppression fund money to replace forestry and protection equipment. The Forestry and Corrections departments must continue using inmate labor for state forest projects. The law limits how two forest funds can be spent and requires the state to consider private mitigation credits before using state forest land for future wetland or stream mitigation.

New certification for crime reports

The State Police superintendent must set written procedures for timely, accurate electronic crime reports. Each reporting organization’s principal officer must certify that reports are accurate to the best of their knowledge and belief.

New fees for police training use

The Virginia State Police can charge other law enforcement agencies to use the Blackstone Training Facility for training. The public safety secretary must approve the fees, which go into a fund for facility upkeep and equipment. Money left at year-end stays in the fund.

New limits on state park land

The Department cannot start or accept new state park land using nongeneral funds without a specific General Assembly appropriation, subject to stated exceptions. The state also moves $2.375 million from a park fund to the Natural Area Preserve Fund. That money must be used only to acquire, care for, and manage natural area preserves.

New noise limits for data centers

The state must set data-center noise rules by December 31, 2029, based on the lowest achievable noise level. Localities may set stricter rules. Starting January 1, 2030, a data center can face a penalty of up to $32,500 for each day it breaks the rules.

New rules and support for court clerks

Each circuit court clerk’s office must receive at least $1,000 a year for technology, and the Compensation Board can fund a marriage-license automation pilot. Clerks must deposit fees and state revenue with the Treasurer, provide requested records to prosecutors, and give a certified successor reasonable access to office records and systems. Certain serious audit findings require a written fix plan within 10 business days.

New rules for cannabis oversight

The Cannabis Control Authority’s hearings are exempt from specified hearing-officer rules. The Board must consult the Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council on public health rules, and a majority of the Council must approve them unless another law provides an exception. Local governments generally cannot regulate or prohibit listed marijuana activities, subject to specified exceptions and local prohibitions.

New rules for local court offices

Circuit court clerks must report income tied to their official duties, but not income from unrelated private work. The Compensation Board may suspend a clerk’s office-expense allowance for a late or incomplete report. Public-vehicle reimbursements must use the required rate, and personal-vehicle claims require proof that a public vehicle was unavailable. The Board also assigns certain new positions when needed to meet a court order, while some local government changes trigger position transfers and salary and benefit cost deductions from money due to the receiving locality.

New rules for local jails

Local and regional jails must get state board approval before a secure-custody project increases capacity. Facilities holding people in secure custody must follow state operating rules and inspections. These changes add oversight and limit local authority to expand jail capacity.

New service plans for children

Localities receiving Children’s Services Act funds must use an approved process to review services and report case and cost data. Local teams and boards must plan care for children in or at risk of residential care. Parents or guardians must enter service agreements, and public reports may not identify children.

New uses for State Police funds

Virginia State Police can use money from four named state funds for automated systems. The department must also redirect resources, as needed, from drug-law enforcement to homeland security and emergency preparedness; other authorized drug enforcement can continue. When special-fund revenue exceeds expenses, the department may use the surplus for air-medical equipment, technology upgrades, or vehicle replacement.

Permit to move threatened bird nests

Officials can allow threatened bird nests and eggs to be moved on the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel South Island when construction would otherwise have to stop. Officials must find that reasonable steps were taken to prevent nesting, and wildlife staff must supervise the move as close as possible to the original site. The transportation department must apply within 30 days after the relevant regulation is adopted.

Review of large transportation spending

Before directing more than $10 million to one transportation project, or more than $25 million total in a two-year period, the Governor must seek Commission review and notify legislative committee staff. If the Commission does not recommend against the spending within 30 business days, the money can be directed.

State can sell or lease Clermont Farm

The Department of Historic Resources can sell or lease Clermont Farm to another public or private group after considering its options. Any deal must not conflict with Elizabeth Rust Williams’s will. Money from a sale or lease goes into the Historic Resources Fund.

State Police can change office projects

The State Police can use several projects to buy, build, or renovate offices instead of only barracks. The department must study its needs and compare building, buying, renovating, leasing, and lease-to-own options using existing project funds. Improvements under the Division Six project must stay within its budget.

Temporary priority for the budget law

From July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, this budget act takes priority over conflicting laws. A later law can override it if that law names the budget provisions it changes and says this priority rule does not apply.

Updated rules for police officers

State officials must review and update minimum officer training standards as needed, including mental health, community policing, and serving people with disabilities. Police agencies need a waiver to keep using rifles of .50 caliber or higher and ammunition for those rifles, but other firearms and ammunition are not covered by that waiver rule. Certain specialized officers are exempt from a disclosure rule while doing official work, when identity protection is necessary.

Water quality funds and grants

The law withholds 15% of certain Water Quality Improvement Fund appropriations when state collections exceed official estimates, unless the budget says otherwise. The Department of Conservation and Recreation can make grants to state agencies, and existing bond authority for water-quality grants continues to the extent available. No total grant amount is stated.

Cannabis and hemp sellers face new rules

Cannabis deliveries must follow rules for background checks, identification, vehicle security, GPS tracking, secure communications, and records. The Authority can inspect covered hemp retailers and take samples; the Board can deny, suspend, or revoke registrations. Covered hemp retail violations can bring civil penalties of up to $10,000 per day, including unregistered sales and sales over stated product limits.

Higher THC caps for cannabis edibles

The Board may set edible marijuana limits of up to 10 milligrams of THC per serving and 100 milligrams per package. Those amounts are up from 5 milligrams per serving and 50 milligrams per package. Similar limits apply to other marijuana products where practical.

More privacy for broadband data

Virginia must publish broadband maps showing served and unserved locations without naming providers or showing who owns or controls networks. Providers can ask the state to correct map information, but the Department’s decision is final. Provider-submitted data is confidential and cannot be released without the provider’s written permission. The maps do not guarantee service to a household.

New rules for cannabis buyers and sellers

People under 21 cannot use false or borrowed identification to buy marijuana; penalties can include a fine of up to $25. The law also bans certain dangerous resin extraction and limits when missing transport papers alone can make products contraband. Sellers cannot sue to collect the price of illegal sales. From February 1 through June 30, 2027, specified licensees and workers are protected from arrest or prosecution for listed offenses tied to compliant licensed work.

Permit action after consumer violations

After a court finds that a permit holder violated one of the listed consumer protection rules, the Commissioner may deny, suspend, or revoke its permit. This gives the state another enforcement tool and can affect a covered business’s ability to operate.

Stronger landfill upkeep safeguards

Virginia must revise financial-assurance rules for solid-waste facilities. The rules must cover landfill caps, leachate, gas systems, and other upkeep, including elevated-temperature landfills. The state must review the assurance and include enforcement rules, adding compliance responsibilities for facility owners and operators.

Changes to nursing home rules and funding

The law exempts nursing homes from a specified state-law provision, but the available information does not explain how that changes care or costs. A temporary specialized-care payment method applied in fiscal years 2021 through 2023; after that, the state returned to its prior rate-setting method. The state can request up to $2 million for nursing-facility projects when current funds are insufficient and required federal and state approvals are in place.

Child care subsidy waitlists by locality

Virginia sets yearly local targets for how many children can receive child care subsidies based on available funds. When demand exceeds a locality’s target, the locality must maintain a waitlist. Being on the list does not guarantee a subsidy or a place.

Delayed Medicaid pharmacy manager contract

Virginia must delay contracting with one third-party administrator to manage Medicaid pharmacy benefits until January 1, 2027, and until the General Assembly provides enough state funding. The law does not state how this delay changes members’ drug costs or coverage.

Fairer deadlines for Medicaid provider appeals

The law sets deadlines for DMAS to notify providers about Medicaid reimbursement overpayments: four years after payment, four years after a complete cost report, or 15 months after a final report following a sale or provider termination. An appeal decision is due within 180 days. If it is late, the decision favors the provider, with a jointly agreed stay of up to 60 days and extra time for settlement review. DMAS can require providers to file appeals online, but providers can request an exception for good cause before the deadline, including lack of rural internet access.

Limits on state opioid grant spending

State agencies can use opioid-abatement grants only within their legal authority. The grants must be one-time and cannot create an ongoing state obligation. The law does not create a direct household benefit or duty.

More support for nursing facilities

Virginia provides up to $2.31 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028 for nursing-facility quality projects, and $3.5 million each year for capacity building. Up to $4.1 million in FY2027 supports facilities joining a federal staffing campaign. DMAS also creates a special payment group for facilities where at least 80% of residents have specified diagnoses. Those facilities must also meet Medicaid-use and case-mix thresholds: at least 90% Medicaid use and a case mix index of 1.15 or higher under the stated 2014 measure. DMAS must seek federal approval for the capacity-building program.

New rules for behavioral health providers

Virginia must update behavioral health licensing rules to match Medicaid service changes and allow supervised peer-recovery trainees to qualify as Medicaid providers. The state may consider private operation for behavioral health facilities planned for renovation or replacement, but can keep state operation if it shows equal or better care at no greater cost. A Community Services Board loses an equal amount of state grant support if it fails to participate in Medicaid services and meet provider rules. State funds cannot replace local support for certain mental health, disability, and substance-use services.

Approval rules for job training aid

Virginia reviews workforce needs and recommends programs that can qualify for G3 assistance. The General Assembly must approve additions or changes to eligible high-demand fields before they take effect. This process can change which training programs qualify, but it does not grant aid directly to students.

Changes to school funding formulas

The law changes how Virginia calculates some school costs and funding updates. A school division can report a substantial error in an index value by December 31 of the year the values are published; a confirmed error can change funding only for that division. The Department of Education also limits how inflation affects updates. The law does not state whether the revised cost calculations increase or reduce a particular division’s funding.

Mixed rules for Governor’s Schools

The Superintendent can adjust tuition, program types, lengths, and enrollment to keep summer Governor’s Schools and Foreign Language Academies within available funds. The state funds added per-pupil costs for up to 1,800 students at each Governor’s School each year. State general funds cannot cover startup construction or fixed equipment, and instructional equipment funding requires an equal school-division commitment. New academic-year schools need General Assembly approval; Fairfax County cannot cut Thomas Jefferson Governor’s School’s local per-pupil funding below its 2003–2004 level.

More support for Virginia teachers

The law funds teacher hiring, residency training, computer science training, and teacher-retention services. It provides $3.6 million each year for teacher residency grants, including $1.85 million for Virginia Commonwealth University’s Richmond program. School divisions must cover at least one-third of residency program costs and apply by August 1 each year.

New rules for education record sharing

State education agencies share teacher and student information for specified studies and program reviews. Some student records may identify individuals, but they can be used only for approved studies, must have privacy safeguards, and must be destroyed when no longer needed. Other listed agencies may use de-identified student data to improve programs and career readiness.

Preschool grants and teacher rule changes

School divisions must apply for grants for provisionally licensed preschool teachers by December 1 each year. Priority goes to hard-to-staff schools and schools with the most qualifying teachers. Some publicly funded teachers in preschool grant programs do not have to meet state licensing rules. Providers must still assess children in fall and spring and meet preschool standards.

State use of education records

Virginia can share Social Security numbers with the U.S. Census, the U.S. Department of Education, or another federal agency for matching education-program data. The matching can examine outcomes such as earnings and education-related debt. The Office of the Workforce Development Advisor can access wage records held by the state higher education council.

Virtual Virginia course fees vary by need

Virginia sets each school division’s share of Virtual Virginia operating costs based on its ability to pay. Each division gets a set number of free course slots. Extra slots may have fees, and discounts based on ability to pay may be offered.

Alcohol authority sends savings to state

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority transfers $3,864,585 each year to the general fund from operating efficiencies. The law does not say which operating changes create the savings or change household prices or payments.

Arts grants favor performing groups

The Virginia Commission for the Arts must give performing arts organizations preference when awarding grants. The law does not set grant amounts or guarantee funding, and the preference may affect how grants are shared among arts groups.

Asbestos settlement money is divided

Virginia divides annual asbestos settlement reimbursements equally. Half goes to the general fund, and half goes to agencies that paid for asbestos removal at state-owned facilities. The total depends on the reimbursement received each year.

Audits and reports track state grants

State-funded nonstate agencies can be required to have their accounts audited. Certain other recipients of state funds must report each year by September 15 how they used the money and what results it produced. Existing reporting rules can exempt an entity from the annual report requirement.

Behavioral health funds support state oversight

The law transfers $154,743 each year from special funds at the behavioral health department to special funds at the State Inspector General’s office. It changes agency funding, not who qualifies for behavioral health services or what households pay.

Broadband providers report service areas

Broadband providers must send updated service-area data to Virginia each year, and public bodies must provide requested data. Customer names, addresses, and account numbers are not required. The information supports the state broadband map, but reporting can add work for providers and public bodies.

Changes to state retirement funding

The Commonwealth Savers Plan can borrow up to $2 million in each year of the budget period to build its state-facilitated retirement savings program. The Virginia Retirement System can charge served employers fees for administrative services, paid by reducing required retirement contributions. When a participating local government fails to pay required amounts, the Comptroller transfers money from certain state funds otherwise due to that locality.

Changes to VDOT land and property

VDOT can sell several properties and use proceeds for office relocation, facility maintenance, or capital projects. Any unused proceeds must go to the Transportation Trust Fund. The law also allows land transfers to Norfolk, a railway, and Gordonsville; Gordonsville must move a security fence within 120 days at no cost to VDOT.

Charitable gaming fees fund state budget

Audit, administrative, and permit fees paid by organizations conducting charitable gaming go into Virginia’s general fund. The law changes where the fees go, not their amounts. It does not state a direct effect on household charges.

Collected court funds move monthly

The state sends all money collected for a specified fund to three budget items each month, in the month after collection. The money supports purposes set in state law. The provision does not state a household benefit amount.

County authority takes over farmers market

The law allows the agriculture department to transfer the Eastern Shore Farmers Market facilities in Melfa to Accomack County’s industrial authority for no payment. The authority pays transaction expenses. The transfer requires an appropriation, in an amount not stated, to address tax-advantaged bonds used to finance the facilities.

Court debt fund money moves

The state transfers $2.4 million each year from the Court Debt Collection Program Fund to the general fund. The transfer does not change household court debts or collection rules.

Deadlines and matches for transportation grants

Projects using certain air-quality funds must receive federal approval within 12 months after state allocation and spend the money within 36 months after approval. Late funds must go to another eligible project. For regional grants serving urban areas with more than 200,000 people, the state may take back its match if deadlines are missed. The project sponsor must provide the match for federally aided Transportation Alternatives projects.

Drug enforcement fund money moves

The state transfers an estimated $5 million each year from the Intensified Drug Enforcement Jurisdictions Fund to the general fund. The transfer changes state funding but does not itself change enforcement rules or household payments.

Energy rules for state buildings

New state buildings over 5,000 square feet must meet energy standards at least as strong as LEED or Green Globes. The same applies to major renovations costing more than 50% of a building’s assessed value. State agencies must favor outdoor LED lighting when it is cost effective.

Faster review for large stormwater plans

Applicants may pay a voluntary $30,000 fee for faster review of stormwater plans in a common development plan covering at least 100 acres. Government review must take no more than 45 days, not counting time the applicant spends answering questions. Receipts above $9,600 must increase reviewer staffing.

Federal disaster recovery money goes to state budget

The law sends federal cost-recovery money in the Disaster Recovery Fund to Virginia’s general fund. The Department of Emergency Management reports the amount by June 1 each year. The law gives no transfer amount and does not change eligibility for disaster assistance.

Forensic department stops local charges

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science no longer pays county, city, or town service charges imposed instead of taxes. This lowers the department’s costs, while local governments lose that revenue. The law does not state the amount.

Fort Monroe payments capped for Hampton

The Fort Monroe Authority’s payments to the City of Hampton cannot exceed $983,960 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. The cap covers payments from all funding sources and limits both the Authority’s payments and the amount the city can receive.

Funding for Fort Monroe operations

Virginia provides $8.13 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 for Fort Monroe Authority operating costs. The law also allows up to $60,000 each year for site projects, fiscal-agent support, and project review. Any later qualifying federal reimbursement for expenses covered by the state's contribution must go back to the general fund.

Grants support industrial site upgrades

Virginia puts $5 million into its derelict-structures fund in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Each year, $2.4 million is set aside for port-related buildings and facilities in five named locations. Covered grant-funded real-property projects must support solar panels or parking-lot solar canopies, with stated exceptions. This rule does not require households to install solar equipment.

Horse industry funding and revenue rules

Virginia Racing Commission revenues first pay approved operating expenses, and any Item 99 year-end balance above $900,000 goes to the general fund. If revenues exceed Item 99 appropriations, the Commission can seek up to $700,000 for horse industry programs or grants. The law also sends 0.025% of the applicable wagering pool to each of four named horse and veterinary organizations; the Commonwealth receives the remainder as a license tax.

Land preservation fund money moves

The law transfers $466,600 each year from the Land Preservation Fund to the general fund. It does not change household payments, program eligibility, or land-use rules.

Legislators gain purchasing independence

Virginia’s Legislative Branch is exempt from executive rules and orders about purchasing, finance, and technology. With required leadership approval, House and Senate clerks can choose whether to follow executive procedures and can make service agreements.

Lower costs for corrections programs

Federal Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Program funds received by Virginia’s Department of Corrections are exempt from specified state cost recoveries. The department also no longer pays covered service charges to counties, cities, and towns. Local governments lose that charge revenue, and the law does not state the amounts involved.

More airport access funds, with limits

Virginia’s transportation board may request airport fund money for roads or other surface transportation that serves an airport. The aviation board may withhold entitlement funds from an airport without an approved spending plan or when it spends against that plan. State money covered by the law cannot pay aviation operating costs without board approval or support an airline’s operation.

More checks on local government audits

Audits of local governments with stormwater utilities or service charges must check compliance with state stormwater law. Auditors must also give written notice of internal-control problems and other financial matters that need attention.

More farm sales through corrections

When the Department of Corrections privatizes food services, it must also seek to maximize agribusiness operations. The department can sell qualifying farm, dairy, or animal products when Virginia imports more of a product than it exports. The law does not set prices or require sales.

More flexible tourism contracts for commemorations

The American Revolution 250 Commission and Virginia Commemorations, Inc. can make some tourism marketing contracts without sealed bids. The contracts must show cost savings and follow competitive principles. The procurement-law exception begins only after the Commission adopts the required guidelines.

More funding for toll and fuel enforcement

VDOT must repay DMV for the operating costs of the Fuels Tax Evasion Program. The state also funds a statewide system for toll customer service and violation enforcement. The law gives no amount for either change and does not state a new toll fee.

More funding for Virginia tourism

Virginia spends $3.1 million each year in FY2027 and FY2028 on tourism advertising; at least $1 million yearly supports ads matched dollar for dollar with private and regional funds. Separate grants provide $2.14 million yearly, and a $1.5 million yearly campaign seeks out-of-state Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic visitors. FY2027 includes $5 million for sports incentives, including $3 million for the 2027 LIV Golf Tournament and $500,000 for another 2026 golf tournament. Other support includes $150,000 yearly for Henrico tourism, $25,000 yearly for a museum, and advertising partnerships that require specified contributions of ad value.

More oversight of state technology

JLARC must keep reviewing the state technology agency, including its contracts, security, and purchasing. The agency continues to develop a system that assigns data-storage costs to state agencies based on their use. Unspent money from a named state appropriation carries forward as matching funds for available federal cybersecurity grants.

More rate choices for large industrial customers

Beginning July 1, 2026, some large industrial customers can choose more electricity rate schedules. They need at least 25 megawatts of demand, a 75% average annual load factor, and 200 qualifying full-time-equivalent employees; data storage is excluded. Each customer is limited to 50 megawatts, and the total is capped at 150 megawatts unless the Commission finds that exceeding the total cap is in the public interest.

New approval rules for state gifts

State agencies generally need the Governor’s written approval or written guidelines to seek or accept gifts, grants, donations, or contracts. The Governor can set procedures for noncash gifts, and qualifying equipment donations from the Virginia College Building Authority are exempt. A federally declared emergency is also excepted when accepting support creates no ongoing state cost.

New checks on state capital projects

Virginia must check a project’s cost, priority, and space needs before considering construction funding. The state can also move unused funds or bond authority among eligible projects to cover shortfalls. Some transfers require notice and no objection within 14 days; projects outside a central pool must first consider cost cuts or a smaller scope.

New controls for state building projects

The law requires most state capital projects to follow the General Assembly’s six-year plan, with limited routes for underfunded projects and emergencies. The Governor can approve certain financed projects without separate legislation, but payments must fit expected revenue or an agency’s available budget. Written approval is required before project planning, construction, or purchases begin or change. Major project funds generally wait for required environmental steps; design funding and contracts also face budget limits.

New controls on state purchases

The state technology agency handles technology purchasing for covered agencies and can authorize them to buy for themselves. State agencies generally need written approval before buying or leasing vehicles with public funds. Covered agencies also generally need approval before spending public money on films, television programs, or broadcast facilities, with listed exceptions.

New fees for private map users

Virginia’s mapping network must collect high-resolution maps and road files every four years with local governments. State and local government users pay no license fee, though they may pay transfer costs. Commercial, private, and out-of-state users must pay a fee set by the network.

New limits on state capital projects

State projects generally cannot change their purpose or size by more than 5%. The law also limits use of general funds to expand projects beyond what was first approved. Some omitted projects can still be approved when funding is available and required reviews and notices are completed. Qualifying projects costing up to $3 million are exempt from capital review, and related projects cannot be split to avoid that limit.

New priorities for local transportation grants

Virginia transportation agencies must use federal funding flexibility as fully as practical while following state law. State matching funds for certain federal grants are limited to planning groups serving urban areas with more than 200,000 people. The state may give higher priority to grants for specified transportation and development plans. Some local transportation fees must add to, not replace, existing transportation spending.

New reviews for state building projects

Virginia agencies must submit capital projects for review, and certain lease-based projects need legislative approval. Lease projects costing more than $5 million need Treasury Board approval when they transfer ownership or support a new building. The Governor reviews project need, plans, costs, and available labor and materials; agencies with maintenance funds must put roof work first. Bond requests and studies are due August 15, and student-cost and aid effects for certain college projects are reported by October 1. Institutions seeking construction flexibility must apply, and agencies leasing personal property must certify that their budgets cover the cost.

New rules for broadband providers

Virginia reviews federal broadband maps each year. Providers do not need to submit territory data when a public federal map is nearly as good or better, and the state cannot unreasonably deny a waiver. Before signing a broadband program subrecipient contract, Virginia must get federal approval confirming that the subrecipient qualifies.

New rules for state debt collection

Virginia agencies must follow set rules when collecting money owed to the state, with exceptions for certain cases. The debt collection division can keep up to 30% of service revenue and $400,000 in operating accounts. Certain fraud recoveries go to a new fund, with 30% of recovered money kept by the division and the rest transferred to public entities.

New rules for state energy upgrades

Qualifying state energy projects costing up to $3 million can count as operating expenses after required reviews. Projects over $3 million and up to $7 million also need energy savings to cover total costs, including interest. Projects above $7 million need capital review and the Governor’s approval. Projects over $250,000 require written notice.

New rules for Virginia Port Authority

The law exempts the Virginia Port Authority from a set of state code provisions. The supplied text does not explain those rules or show how the exemption affects households.

New state fleet service charges

State agencies and institutions leasing central fleet vehicles pay vehicle cost and interest over 84 months or less. They also pay $110 per vehicle each month in each of the first two years. The Department of General Services can provide fleet-management services to local public bodies for a fee, but the law does not set that fee.

Norfolk receives state land rights

The law allows the Marine Resources Commission to transfer specified land rights and the Commonwealth’s interest in Newton Canal to Norfolk for $1. The transfers need gubernatorial approval and approved documents. Some interests must include clauses that return them to the Commonwealth if stated conditions are not met.

Private rest areas require federal approval

The state transportation department can seek or accept proposals to develop or operate rest areas only if federal law allows private operation. The law does not itself privatize rest areas or require the department to accept a proposal.

Public colleges recover grant costs

State agencies and public colleges that accept grants or contracts must recover full statewide and agency indirect costs, unless the grantor bars recovery or the act provides an exemption. Colleges generally keep 70 percent of certain recoveries for research and related needs. For specified program levels, 30 percent goes to administrative costs; colleges can keep all recoveries tied to research grants above those levels.

Richmond payment capped at $70,000

The state’s yearly service payment to Richmond for the General Assembly Building and State Capitol cannot exceed $70,000 per fiscal year. This limits the state payment and the amount Richmond can receive for these properties. It does not set a household tax or fee.

Rules for managing state cash

The law lets Virginia move some available state cash to meet approved spending needs or respond to a declared fiscal emergency. It also allows certain unused balances to carry forward or moves inactive balances to the general fund. The state cannot use protected trust, debt-service, or federal funds for emergency transfers. Unauthorized agency deficits are not covered by the state, and officials who approve them can be held personally liable; approved deficit borrowing follows repayment rules.

Special fuel-cost rules for large customers

For a utility fuel-cost financing petition filed from May 1 through July 15, 2026, a specified rule applies to retail customers whose demand exceeded five megawatts in 2025. The law’s supplied description does not explain whether this changes those customers’ bills or by how much.

State agencies can use forest land

The Governor can set a template for Virginia agencies to lease, license, or use U.S. Forest Service land. The Attorney General's office must approve the agreement's form. Agencies using the land pay for any separate insurance policy.

State agencies change service cost accounting

The State Comptroller may charge an agency’s budget for services paid through working capital funds, with supporting documents. The Governor may restore a charge if the agency disputes it. The law also directs agencies to budget estimated indirect cost recoveries; a budget increase may cover actual recoveries above the amount budgeted. Public colleges are excluded from the indirect-cost rule.

State agencies get short-term loans

State agencies can borrow against expected special-fund collections, and agencies or public corporations can borrow against approved debt proceeds for capital costs. Written approval and a financing or repayment plan are required. Operating loans cover only the minimum projected need and last no more than 12 months. Capital loans are limited to expected costs in the current two-year budget period and may carry market interest.

State can transfer excess service charges

The Secretary of Finance can direct the State Comptroller to move a reasonable amount of excess service charges into the general fund. The money must come from charges above service costs or from over-recoveries from the general fund. The law sets no transfer amount.

State charge card rebates fund expenses

Rebates from Virginia’s statewide charge card program go into a new state fund. The fund pays program costs, rebates owed to local governments, and federal amounts due. Any money left goes to the general fund by June 30 each year. Up to $80,000 a year can cover certain accounting costs.

State fleet gets new funding accounts

A Treasury loan covers state fleet expenses when they come due before the fleet fund has recovered its costs. The fund repays the loan from money it collects. A new state fund tracks vehicle-purchase transactions for state agencies and other public bodies.

State moves excess balances to general fund

The law transfers reserve balances above statutory limits to the general fund. When a transfer is required and the Revenue Stabilization Fund is not above its constitutional limit, the Revenue Reserve Fund is drawn first. Each June 30, the Comptroller also transfers eligible state account balances below $100 to the general fund, with exclusions and exceptions.

State Police sale money goes to budget

The Virginia State Police must deposit half of the money from selling the airplanes being replaced into the state general fund. The law does not state the sale amount or provide a direct household payment.

State property may go to museum foundation

The Governor can approve transferring Commonwealth property or improvements to the American Frontier Culture Foundation. The law does not name the property or state its value, and it does not provide a direct household payment.

State reallocates central service funds

The state transfers $7,845,278 each year to the general fund for central services. It then sends $2,787,795 each year to the Department of Motor Vehicles to replace expected lost reinstatement-fee revenue. These are state fund transfers, not new household payments.

State reserves money for federal repayments

Virginia creates a reserve for amounts the State Comptroller determines are needed to repay the federal government. The Comptroller must transfer amounts due into the fund by June 30 each year. The money and interest stay in the fund until the federal government requires payment; this does not create a new repayment duty for residents.

State sells several public properties

The law authorizes a sale of about 54.33 acres of former correctional land to Brunswick County for $200,000. It also requires sales of the Culpeper Correctional Center, the James Monroe Building, and a Richmond forensic lab after the new Hanover lab is occupied and the Richmond site is no longer needed. Proceeds go to the general fund after specified requirements are met; prices for these other sales are not stated.

State transfers move money to general fund

The law moves money from several state funds and property sales into Virginia’s general fund. Transfers include about $34.5 million from the racing fund in each of two years and money from State Police programs. Proceeds from two property sales also go to the general fund after required steps. The law does not state a direct household payment or service change.

Tobacco funds cover enforcement costs

The law transfers $244,268 each year from one tobacco fund and $48,854 each year from another to the general fund. The money covers state costs for enforcing tobacco settlement rules. The transfers do not create a household payment.

Uninsured motorist fund money moves

The law transfers $7.4 million each year from the Uninsured Motorists Fund to the general fund. The money comes from the share that otherwise would go to the State Corporation Commission. The law does not change insurance rules or pay motorists.

Unspent recovery funds can move projects

Agencies with unspent project money on June 30, 2026, must send plans and timelines by August 15, 2026. The Governor can move expected unspent funds to other previously approved projects if state officials find the money will miss the federal deadline. Federal rules still apply.

Virginia tightens state spending controls

The Governor can reduce specific spending allotments by up to 15 percent, and nongeneral fund spending must stay within expected revenue. The Director of Planning and Budget can approve added agency spending from certain extra funds after approving a revised budget request. The Governor can approve limited deficit funding for certain unexpected mandates, service risks, or funding gaps; some loans are capped at 1.5 percent of specified current-biennium revenue. Capital projects cannot use this deficit funding.

Waivers for regional projects

The law allows a requirement under Virginia law to be waived for qualifying projects of regional or statewide interest. The text does not say what requirement can be waived or who decides, so the effect on project sponsors and residents is unclear.

Businesses can test their own scales

Businesses can use a registered service agency for annual testing of commercial weights and measures devices instead of periodic state inspections. Covered devices must be tested at least once a year, and businesses must report results. A rejected device cannot be used commercially until an official recheck finds it compliant.

CBD products stay available at dispensaries

Each pharmaceutical processor and cannabis dispensing facility must keep an adequate supply of products whose main cannabinoid is CBD and that have low or no THC. Processors must register each cannabis product they make. After approval, the Board must add the product’s national drug code to the Prescription Monitoring Program within two business days.

Limits on certain cooling chemicals

Virginia requires limits on products and equipment using certain cooling chemicals. Foam makers shipping products out of state keep an exception until the Board sets a feasible compliance date after hearing from them. Aviation and aerospace businesses keep an exception for manufacturing products for sale and distribution.

New rules for hemp products

A processed hemp product sold at retail must contain no more than 0.3% THC and no more than 2 milligrams of THC per package. The law applies specified permit rules and misdemeanor penalties to people who make covered hemp products, but no longer lists selling or offering them for sale as covered conduct. The Cannabis Control Authority administers current hemp-product rules until its replacement rules take effect; testing rules also move to the Cannabis Control Authority and Agriculture Board.

Water permit fees track program costs

Certain water pollution permit fees cannot exceed 50% of the direct costs of running, complying with, and enforcing the permit program. Fees for certain stormwater permits and nutrient-credit certification must equal 60% to 62% of direct program costs. The actual dollar amounts depend on those costs.

More room for transit program costs

The transportation board may use up to 5% of certain revenues for rail and transit project development, administration, and compliance. The authority covers only named funding sources and related program costs.

New funding rules for Virginia water programs

The Department can use up to 2% of each year’s funding for indoor plumbing and Southwest Virginia water projects to cover administration. The law does not change household fees or stated eligibility for assistance.

Vital records fees support records systems

The issuing health district keeps 85% of vital-records revenue for its costs, while the state Office of Vital Records receives 15% for infrastructure. The Comptroller must also put $2 from each fee collected by the State Registrar into the state automation fund. These rules do not change the fee charged to people.

New operating rules for VCU Qatar

Virginia Commonwealth University can keep local bank accounts in Qatar and other countries for its Qatar campus. The accounts are exempt from Virginia’s public-deposit securities law. VCU can also use its own lease and purchasing rules, which must follow competitive purchasing principles but may allow exceptions.

New rules for local bond payments

When a local government defaults on general obligation debt, the State Comptroller can pay bondholders and recover the payment and related costs from money otherwise due to that locality. For property financed with tax-advantaged bonds, sale proceeds must first be made available to the bond issuer when it finds that remediation is appropriate. These rules protect bond payments and tax status, while allowing recovery from local funds and restricting initial use of some sale proceeds.

Behavioral health balances move to general fund

Every July 1, the Comptroller must move special fund balances above $25 million from the behavioral health department to the general fund. Money set aside for electronic health records does not count toward the limit. The law does not state the amount transferred or how the general fund will use it.

Community agency funds follow a formula

When state or federal funding for Virginia Community Action Agencies increases, the Department of Social Services divides the increase by formula: 75% by low-income population, 20% by jurisdictions served, and 5% by area served. Each agency must receive at least 1.5% of the increase.

Higher fees repay health board loan

When health regulatory board expenses exceed current fee collections, the state must provide a loan of up to $3.5 million. The loan must be repaid by June 30, 2030, using increased board fees under a four-year plan. Regulated licensees pay the higher fees; the law does not calculate any effect on household service costs.

Higher Medicaid rates for residential treatment

Virginia’s Medicaid agency can reset psychiatric residential treatment rates every three years, starting July 1, 2023. It can set separate rate ceilings for these facilities and participating residential addiction treatment services, based on statewide average daily costs. Providers must submit cost reports; out-of-state providers must do so if they had more than 1,500 paid days for Virginia Medicaid members in the most recent state fiscal year.

Higher rates for some Medicaid treatment homes

Virginia adjusts inflation payments for psychiatric residential treatment facilities and qualifying addiction treatment providers in non-rebasing years. The adjustment uses a four-quarter average for psychiatric facilities. A revised method began July 1, 2024. These inflation adjustments end July 1, 2026, after federal approval. Beginning July 1, 2024, qualifying therapeutic group homes may receive 50% higher daily rates if they accept children needing Medicaid screening and treatment services.

Hospitals help cover med-flight costs

Beginning July 1, 2025, eligible hospitals pay a share of specified Chesterfield County med-flight costs. Each share depends on the hospital’s portion of state police med-flight patients transported there in the prior fiscal year. Costs already paid by state funds are excluded. The assessment reduces that hospital’s Trauma Center Fund payment, and the money goes to Chesterfield County.

Local behavioral health boards expand Medicaid billing

Community Services Boards and Behavioral Health Authorities must maximize Medicaid billing for services provided to eligible clients and report their Medicaid revenue each year. The state must monitor that revenue at least annually. Community Services Boards may also use a line of credit for cash flow, capped at three months of operating expenses. These rules apply to the organizations, not as new billing duties for clients.

Medicaid transportation calls based in Norton

A statewide call center linked to brokerage transportation for Medicaid or FAMIS enrollees must be located in Norton, Virginia. The law does not state that enrollee transportation benefits or costs change.

More review of state health programs

JLARC must keep reviewing Virginia’s economic development programs and health and human services agencies. It can examine spending, results, forecasts, and records. JLARC can also set a salary range for its director, but the law gives no amount.

New payment rules for Medicaid plans

Virginia directs the state share of certain managed care repayments to the Health Care Fund. Medicaid contracts must limit quality withholds to 1% in years one and two, 2% in years three and four, and 3% starting in year five. Plans must return set shares of underwriting gains above 3% of Medicaid premium income, with higher return shares above 6% and 8%. Beginning July 1, 2026, the state can seek extra rebates on glucose monitors and related supplies; this does not change coverage rules.

Quarterly Medicaid drug reporting

340B drug providers must report Medicaid drug sales and related costs to DMAS each quarter. Managed care contracts and provider agreements must include these reporting duties. The information helps the state check rebates, but providers and health plans take on new reporting work. The law does not directly change coverage or patient costs.

Rules for state employee health plans

Every plan under the state employee health plan section must follow a referenced state law. This provision does not explain that law’s requirements or identify a specific change to benefits or costs.

State and local health funds shift balances

By June 30 each fiscal year, the law transfers year-end balances from state and local employee health administration funds to their health insurance funds. It changes where the money is held, not who qualifies for coverage or the amount of benefits.

Housing fund may cover tax losses

The Governor can direct a transfer from the Virginia Housing Trust Fund to the general fund when claims for the Virginia Housing Opportunity Tax Credit exceed the annual revenue-loss forecast. The transfer equals the net lost revenue. This moves state funds and does not change a person’s tax-credit eligibility or amount.

Changes to local job service funding

Employment service funding must follow recommendations from the Employment Services Organizations State Council. An organization can keep receiving two employment-service program funds for up to six months after its accreditation expires if it is actively seeking reaccreditation. The state also allocates work-program funds among local departments using performance standards and the number of people served.

Changes to state worker pension costs

Participating local governments use employer retirement contribution rates certified by the Virginia Retirement System board. A qualifying state agency can avoid paying certain separation-related retirement costs directly, but the cost is added to employer contribution rates. For qualifying legislative-branch separations certified since July 1, 2016, the full cost of enhanced retirement benefits goes into employer contribution rates, subject to required certifications.

Changes to unemployment system operations

The Virginia Employment Commission can take a Treasury loan, with approval, to pay for necessary administration as federal funding declines. It must repay the loan within three years using administrative-fee money. The Commission must also finish a wage-data project by December 31, 2026, and collect and share job titles, pay rates, and work locations using existing grant funds.

College enrollment and funding rules

Public colleges with more than 25% nonresident undergraduates generally cannot raise that share. A limited increase must support Virginia workforce needs, keep in-state enrollment at or above fall 2018 levels, and stay within one percentage point of the prior year; named universities and two-year colleges are exempt. The state must seek to cover at least 67% of specified education costs for resident students. Every two years, the state reviews college performance, and it may recommend withholding financial benefits from schools that fall short.

Different job rules at VCU Qatar

Virginia Commonwealth University can hire non-faculty workers solely to support its Qatar Campus. Those workers are not Commonwealth employees and are not covered by the Virginia Personnel Act. University and Academic Professionals remain Commonwealth employees and follow university policies, the management agreement, and applicable law.

Employers face a new unemployment fee

Starting January 1, 2025, certain employer unemployment tax rates fall by 0.05 percentage points. Employers also pay a quarterly fee of 0.05% of taxable wages to support unemployment system technology and staffing. Employers cannot take the fee from employee pay. The state also leaves regular unemployment claims from April 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021, out of certain employer tax calculations.

How Virginia divides school funding

Virginia uses a 15-year bus replacement schedule and 27.89 support positions per 1,000 funded instructional positions to calculate school aid. The state pays 55% of certain required staff benefit costs, subject to salary and locality limits. School-age population estimates from July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, help divide funding between localities; the law does not state which localities gain or lose.

Limits on college aid programs

The state transfers up to $4.15 million from available first-year college program balances to the workforce credential grant fund. That cap is reduced by amounts transferred for this purpose in FY2026. Colleges seeking credential grants cannot start certain programs that duplicate existing career and technical education programs, and no more than 25% of grant funds can go to one occupational field. Public associate degree colleges must also keep G3 participation within their budget appropriation, which can limit the number of students served.

More flexibility for college funds

Virginia public colleges can set aside unspent education funds in reserves capped at 6% of their recent education appropriation. Colleges must recover the full indirect costs of auxiliary programs, but qualifying colleges receive interest earned on auxiliary funds. The University of Virginia’s College at Wise can pause that cost transfer during the 2026–2028 biennium. Public colleges can also use a federal financing program for historically Black colleges and universities, subject to its rules.

More funding flexibility for UVA biotech

The University of Virginia can use unspent funds from an earlier state appropriation to finish its biotechnology building. For each state dollar used, the university must direct an equal amount of nonstate money to recruit research faculty. The amount of unspent funds is not stated.

More university research funding oversight

After signing agreements with the Virginia Innovation Partnership Authority, Virginia Tech, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Old Dominion University must report initiative finances by August 1 each year. Reports include budgeted and actual revenues and expenses, investments by activity, and cash balances. Remaining authorized balances carry forward and are reappropriated.

New conditions on local school funds

Superintendents can certify that local school money is budgeted, but the state still checks actual spending after the school year. Divisions seeking matched Lottery or Incentive funds must certify their intent by July 1 and budget the local match before state money is paid. Localities that spend above the required amount cannot cut school spending until they meet all school standards. The state may deduct audio-visual fees from Basic Aid and deduct local shares for education costs of students in state institutions.

New funding rules for college facilities

Virginia colleges must use specified funds or authorized debt for certain new campus costs. Parking and some facility upkeep generally use nongeneral funds, and colleges must prioritize maintenance. State maintenance funding recommendations must consider building condition, age, and use. Selected construction projects must have coverage through Virginia’s risk management program; some signed construction-flexibility programs continue until revoked.

New funding rules for public universities

Public colleges and universities can make agreements with nonprofits to fund research or other work tied to their mission. The Attorney General must approve agreements requiring binding arbitration or another jurisdiction’s laws. Most nongeneral fund collections must go to the state treasury and be spent under the budget act; private gifts, endowments, and related income are excluded, along with specified exceptions.

New operating rules for public colleges

Public colleges can negotiate for authority in a third area of operations after meeting agreement and renewal requirements. They must follow local review rules for covered land-disturbing work, unless they submit annual specifications to the Department of Environmental Quality. Colleges cannot use public funds for exaggerated promotional material, but can share factual information.

New rules for college tuition funds

Public colleges can count an authorized technology fee as ongoing tuition revenue, and must use that revenue to support technology. Some colleges can keep tuition and fee revenue identified for them, but must report how they will use it for education programs. Covered colleges cannot use general funds or tuition and education fees for intercollegiate athletics.

Property values guide school funding

The tax department must use a representative sample of local property values when calculating state school funding. A local school board can ask the department to review its first calculation, and the department must report any corrections to the Board of Education.

Protected funding for rehabilitation services

The state must keep vocational rehabilitation funds for rehabilitation services and cannot transfer them for other uses. The budget estimates a state match of $18,006,465 in each of FY2027 and FY2028. Federal grant requests are limited to $87,120,416 in each of federal FY2026, FY2027, and FY2028 unless the budget director gives prior written approval for more. Federal reallotment funds cannot create an ongoing state cost.

Public colleges review fees and staffing

Public colleges can fill positions authorized by the law, and Virginia State University begins a five-year pilot with added technology and purchasing authority on July 1, 2026. Public four-year colleges must review recreation revenue options, staffing structures, and supervisor roles, and act on feasible streamlining ideas. They must also work toward standardizing common purchases. The recreation review may consider new user charges, but it does not require a student-fee cut.

State backstop for school bond payments

When certain local bond payments fall short of debt service on qualifying school bonds, Virginia covers the shortfall first with available Literary Fund money and then with general fund money. The state may recover the amount, with interest, from the locality that failed to pay. The rule applies to qualifying bonds issued after June 30, 1997, that do not receive the specified statutory protections.

State gets proceeds from VCU leases

When Virginia Commonwealth University leases Altria Building space to Altria or another unrelated entity, the university must send rent above actual operating costs to the state. It can instead reduce the state’s share of the purchase price by that amount.

Stronger rules for public colleges

Public colleges with state management agreements must meet financial and administrative standards, including limits on project changes and office rent. Starting July 1, 2026, colleges receiving new operating authority must set an education measure approved by the state higher education council. State officials must also use the council’s project rankings when choosing which college projects receive funding; no project is guaranteed funding.

Tighter limits on state staffing

State agencies generally cannot exceed their budgeted position limits without approval. Some limits can rise temporarily for listed needs, while agencies over their limits must seek approval or plan to return to them. Behavioral health and corrections departments can shift positions among agencies but cannot exceed their department-wide limits. Temporary Cabinet assignments generally last no more than 180 days, and each office is limited to three positions unless the Governor approves more.

University funding for health research

Virginia provides $6 million in FY2027 for Virginia Tech's Patient Research Center and $3 million for Virginia Commonwealth University's Medicines for All Institute. Both amounts stay unavailable until the universities sign agreements with the state innovation authority covering research plans and other requirements. William & Mary receives $75,000 in state funds and $400,000 in other funds each year for biomedical and biomaterials research. Participating biosciences institutions must contribute at least $50,000 in cash for each year they take part.

Updated rules for recovery trainees

The Virginia Board of Counseling must align its rules for peer recovery specialist-trainees with rules adopted by the behavioral health department. The department can use emergency rules within 280 days after enactment. The law does not state the specific training or licensing requirements that will change.

Cannabis businesses face conduct penalties

Cannabis licensees and workers must follow license, age, product-storage, sourcing, and transfer rules. They cannot use cannabis at work, except for allowed quality-control sampling, or give cannabis products as gifts; some violations carry penalties of up to $500 or license and job loss. The Board can reduce penalties for certified seller training and may waive some penalties after five violation-free years, but not for knowing, willful violations.

Cannabis firms get product flexibility

Some licensed cannabis businesses can make minor changes to registered products without filing again, within THC and CBD limits. A licensee can also sell a product tested by another licensee if it passed required tests, stayed unchanged, and has traceable records. Rules also allow specified devices, hemp-based CBD products, and on-site demonstrations with cannabinoid-free samples. Virginia-grown hemp extracts can be used in some cannabis products after required testing, and cannabis products must follow state packaging and labeling rules.

Cannabis license eligibility gets stricter

The Board must refuse licenses for listed reasons, including certain convictions, fraud, undisclosed ownership, and qualifying local taxes at least 90 days overdue. Exceptions apply to some convictions and tax debts. The Board cannot reject an applicant solely for a past marijuana-related conviction, subject to a stated legal exception; other licensing rules still apply.

More options for medical cannabis sites

Qualifying dual-use facilities can operate retail marijuana stores alongside patient dispensing, and processors can cultivate beyond the former product-use limits. A permitted processor can operate up to five dispensing facilities and seek approval for one extra cultivation site, but covered indoor growing space cannot exceed 70,000 square feet in total. Some existing dual-use sites keep location or floor-space exceptions; one pharmacist can supervise no more than six people doing pharmacy-technician duties in covered areas. Processors can also correct typing mistakes on product labels and wholesale documents.

More state support for business growth

Virginia funds business-ready sites with $1.56 million in each of FY2027 and FY2028, plus venture investments of $3.1 million yearly and a regional innovation fund of $2 million yearly. It also funds an incentives division, internal audits, and a Virginia-Taiwan trade office. Pulaski County site funds require at least a dollar-for-dollar non-state match and proof that a company plans to locate or expand there. Returned venture money stays available for future investments, and the manager can recover its direct collection costs.

New definitions for cannabis businesses

The law defines cultivation to include work from planting through packaging, but not processing or testing. It broadens what counts as a sale and removes industrial hemp from the listed exclusions in Virginia’s marijuana definition. It also changes which activities licensed growers, processors, transporters, testing facilities, and stores may perform; transporters lose their former wholesaler resale role.

New rules for marijuana license owners

The Board must set rules for audits, ownership, financing, and business agreements involving marijuana licenses. Licensees pay for independent audits, and covered ownership changes need Board approval and background checks. Passive investments below 10% equity are presumed allowed, but the Board can still find undue influence. When it limits certain license types, it must offer impact-license applicants at least as many licenses as other applicants; qualified applicants may be chosen by lottery. The Board must also consider population density, limit market concentration, and try to spread licenses across Virginia.

Rules for licensed marijuana businesses

The law authorizes licenses for marijuana growing, processing, retail sales, transport, delivery, and testing. Cultivation licenses have five tiers, with canopy limits from 5,000 to 35,000 square feet; some tiers allow outdoor growing, subject to security rules. Licensed businesses must meet tracking, safety, security, and testing standards. Delivery must be in person and is barred at listed locations.

Cannabis profits flow into state budget

The law sends net profits from the Cannabis Control Authority Enterprise Fund to the general fund four times a year, within 50 days after each quarter. Second-year profits are estimated at $16.1 million. The fourth-quarter transfer is estimated and made in June; any shortfall is deducted from the next quarter’s profits.

Cigarette certificate fees fund state costs

Cigarette exemption certificate fees first cover the tax department’s direct costs. Extra collections are deposited in the state general fund every other year, beginning with the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The law does not set a new fee amount.

Local tax money restricted to projects

Local governments must use the specified tax revenue for school construction or major renovation, public transportation, or related financing costs. In Planning District 8, the money cannot repay certain older school project debts. The law directs how local governments spend the revenue but does not set a new household tax rate.

Some tax compensation payments pause

The law suspends specified tax-related compensation beginning with returns for June 2010, due in July 2010. It restores compensation under one specified tax provision beginning with returns for June 2011, due in July 2011. The law does not state the payment amounts.

Sports betting firms lose bonus tax breaks

Sports betting permit holders can exclude allowable bettor bonuses from counted revenue during their first 12 months of activity. The 12 months begin in the first month they collect wagers. After that period, they cannot exclude those bonuses or promotions.

State shifts funds for tax services

Virginia transfers an estimated $6.2 million each year from a local sales tax fund and $2.9 million each year from the transportation fund to cover tax compliance and revenue forecasting. These transfers fund state services but do not directly change household tax rates or transportation benefits.

Tobacco settlement money is allocated

The State Comptroller must deposit 41.5% of Virginia’s allocation under the tobacco Master Settlement Agreement. The law does not state the total allocation or describe a direct household payment.

Transportation officials access tax records

Named transportation officials can receive confidential tax information when needed to collect taxes in their member areas. They must keep it confidential and follow the same rules and penalties as Virginia tax officials. The law does not create a new household tax or reporting duty.

Virginia redirects tax and fee revenue

The law sends specified communications tax revenue and other agency receipts to Virginia’s general fund. It also defines the sales tax revenue used for some municipal entitlements. The first-year communications tax transfer is $2 million, with another $2 million in the second year. These changes redirect public revenue; they do not change household tax rates or bills.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Luke E. Torian
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 4,106 • No: 1,532

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 4

Yes: 38 • No: 0

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 14

Yes: 20 • No: 18

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 13

Yes: 20 • No: 18

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 9

Yes: 20 • No: 18

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 12

Yes: 21 • No: 17

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 8

Yes: 38 • No: 0

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 6

Yes: 25 • No: 12

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 5

Yes: 28 • No: 10

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 7

Yes: 37 • No: 0

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 2

Yes: 26 • No: 12

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 3, 4, and 5

Yes: 88 • No: 0

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 1

Yes: 57 • No: 33

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 2

Yes: 65 • No: 25

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 6.1

Yes: 65 • No: 23

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 7

Yes: 63 • No: 24

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 8

Yes: 90 • No: 0

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 9

Yes: 62 • No: 28

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 10

Yes: 74 • No: 14

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 11

Yes: 76 • No: 9

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 12

Yes: 62 • No: 28

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 13

Yes: 57 • No: 33

House vote • 6/29/2026

House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 14

Yes: 56 • No: 34

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 1

Yes: 20 • No: 18

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 11

Yes: 36 • No: 2

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 10

Yes: 31 • No: 7

Senate vote • 6/29/2026

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 3

Yes: 38 • No: 0

Senate vote • 6/22/2026

Conference report agreed to by Senate

Yes: 23 • No: 16

House vote • 6/22/2026

Conference report agreed to by House

Yes: 71 • No: 22

Senate vote • 3/4/2026

Committee amendments agreed to (Voice Vote)

Yes: 0 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/4/2026

Senate insisted on substitute Block Vote

Yes: 39 • No: 0

House vote • 3/4/2026

Senate amendments rejected by House

Yes: 0 • No: 92

Senate vote • 3/4/2026

Passed Senate with amendments

Yes: 24 • No: 16

Senate vote • 3/3/2026

Passed by for the day Block Vote (Voice Vote)

Yes: 0 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/3/2026

Reported from Finance and Appropriations with Senate Amendments Substituted for House Amendments

Yes: 9 • No: 3

Senate vote • 3/3/2026

Constitutional reading dispensed Block Vote (on 2nd reading)

Yes: 40 • No: 0

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 419 #2h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Constitutional reading dispensed (on 3rd reading)

Yes: 95 • No: 0

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 77 #4h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Uncontested committee amendments agreed to Block Vote

Yes: 89 • No: 9

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 50 #2h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 1 #8h agreed to

Yes: 65 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 54 #1h agreed to

Yes: 63 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 328 #1h agreed to

Yes: 91 • No: 5

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 125 #1h agreed to

Yes: 95 • No: 1

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 278 #3h agreed to

Yes: 92 • No: 5

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 352 #1h agreed to

Yes: 63 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 352 #3h agreed to

Yes: 66 • No: 31

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 359 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 471 #1h agreed to

Yes: 65 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 60 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 290 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 471 #2h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 471 #3h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 471 #4h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 471 #5h agreed to

Yes: 95 • No: 2

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 50 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 4-5.04 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Floor Amendment Item 4-14 #1h offered by Delegate McNamara passed by

Yes: 62 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Passed House

Yes: 83 • No: 14

House vote • 2/26/2026

Floor Amendment Item 3-5.24 #1h offered by Delegate Webert passed by

Yes: 73 • No: 22

House vote • 2/26/2026

Floor Amendment Item 109 #1h offered by Delegate McNamara passed by

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 4-14 #2h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 419 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 32

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 369 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 50 #3h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 420 #3h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 243 #1h agreed to

Yes: 63 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Floor Amendment Item 4-14 #2h offered by Delegate McNamara passed by

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 399 #2h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item C-18 #1h agreed to

Yes: 68 • No: 29

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 102 #6h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 33

House vote • 2/26/2026

Contested committee amendment Item 491 #1h agreed to

Yes: 64 • No: 32

House vote • 2/25/2026

Motion for Special and Continuing Order for Thursday, February 26, 2026

Yes: 93 • No: 0

House vote • 2/22/2026

Reported from Appropriations with amendment(s)

Yes: 22 • No: 0

Actions Timeline

Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 14 (20-Y 18-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 13 (20-Y 18-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 12 (21-Y 17-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 11 (36-Y 2-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 10 (31-Y 7-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 9 (20-Y 18-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 8 (38-Y 0-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 7 (37-Y 0-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 6 (25-Y 12-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 5 (28-Y 10-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 4 (38-Y 0-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 3 (38-Y 0-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 2 (26-Y 12-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
Senate concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 1 (20-Y 18-N 0-A)
6/29/2026Senate
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 14 (56-Y 34-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 13 (57-Y 33-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 12 (62-Y 28-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 11 (76-Y 9-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 10 (74-Y 14-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 9 (62-Y 28-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 8 (90-Y 0-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 7 (63-Y 24-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 6.1 (65-Y 23-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 2 (65-Y 25-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House
House concurred in Governor's recommendation No. 1 (57-Y 33-N 0-A)
6/29/2026House

Bill Text

Chaptered
6/29/2026
PDF
Reenrolled
6/29/2026
PDF
Gov Recommendation
6/26/2026
HTML PDF
Enrolled
6/25/2026
PDF
Amendment
6/19/2026
PDF
Amendment
2/26/2026
PDF
Amendment
2/25/2026
PDF
Amendment
2/24/2026
PDF
Amendment
1/22/2026
PDF
Introduced
12/17/2025
HTML PDF PDF

Back to State Legislation

Summary

How does this bill affect your finances?

Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

High Impact

Death benefit for fallen service members

One-time payment to Messiah Johnson

$25,000 for eligible sterilization survivors

Longer coverage after local job loss

Lower marketplace premiums for some households

Medicaid and CHIP members pay less

More Medicaid and FAMIS access

More state coverage for cancer and mental health

Higher pay for legislative assistants

Higher pay for public officials

Higher salaries for local election officials

Higher salaries for local public officers

Higher salaries for Virginia Supreme Court justices

Loan help for behavioral health workers

Military families get college stipends

More aid options for Virginia students

More college aid for students

More pay incentives for Virginia teachers

More student aid at Norfolk State

More transition help for separated local workers

Optometry students get Virginia practice grants

Paid sick leave for workers

Pell students get another tuition aid option

Raises and benefits for state workers

Tuition grants for online students

Tuition scholarships for high-achieving VCU students

Grants for small business investors

Bigger Virginia standard deduction

Vehicle owners get property tax relief

More grants to prevent community violence

More support for court-appointed lawyers

State funds local jail construction

More community mental health services

More funding for child care and preschool

More funding for children’s services

More funding for rural health care

More money for UVA patient care

More reading and math help in schools

More school funding for special education

Lottery and alcohol profits fund public budgets

Virginia funds major public construction projects

More funding for Virginia roads and transit

More money for roads and transit

More money for Virginia roads and transit

State funding for debt payments

More Medicaid support for hospitals

More college aid for Pell-eligible students

More funding for colleges and research

More money for college equipment and bonds

Adoption support limited for some families

Tighter rules for some student aid

Land tax credit capped at $20,000

Marijuana sellers face decal penalties

Cannabis businesses face stronger tax collection

Limits and penalties for home cannabis growing

Future teachers get grants with service rules

Future teachers get loans with forgiveness

G3 students get tuition and living-cost help

Paid sick leave reaches more workers

Hemp businesses face a $500,000 license fee

High fee for cannabis processor privileges

More Medicaid funding, hospital assessments

More money for school operations

More reading and math help

More school technology and devices

More state aid for school services

More support for smaller school classes

Billions for local school funding

More money for school resources

More state funding for public schools

Sales tax funds local schools

Medium Impact

Eligible records can be sealed

Higher pay for court-appointed advocates

Legal help for foster parents