Del. Eric Phillips
We completed our last day in Richmond for the 2026 Virginia General Assembly Session on March 14th; however, we did not finalize a state budget for the upcoming two-year period. Because of this, I’m unable to provide the usual end-of-session update explaining the final spending plan and my vote on it.
As a result, the legislature will have to return for a special session to complete the budget. Until a final plan is approved, schools, local governments, and other organizations that rely on state funding will have limited information about the resources available to them for the next biennium. My staff and I will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
At this point, legislators are returning to Richmond on April 22nd for the reconvene veto session and we will be staying an extra day or two to hopefully vote on a budget at that time.
Redistricting
In the meantime, early voting has begun for the upcoming referendum on the proposed redistricting amendment. Residents are encouraged to review the details of the proposal and participate in the election process. You can vote now at your respective local Voter Registrar’s Office and on Election Day April 21st at your regular polling place. You can find your polling place and join the permanent absentee voter list on the Virginia State Board of Elections’ website.
During session, we have a quick reference board to track legislation as it worked its way through committees and the floor. As you will see, we had success with several bills and resolutions, six were continued to 2027 and four of our bills were tabled. I heard many favorable comments on legislation that did not pass and I was encouraged to bring them back next year.
As of Saturday, the House and Senate have enrolled 757 bills that are waiting on the signatures of the Speaker and Lt. Governor; we have sent 711 bills to the Governor’s office for review so far; and the Governor has acted upon 11. The Governor’s deadline to make recommendations or veto legislation is April 13th and then the General Assembly reconvenes to vote on her actions on April 22nd.
The House of Delegates Page Program is a wonderful opportunity for young men and women to learn more about civics and the legislative process, develop leadership skills, and to make lasting memories and friendships. The Pages are vital to legislators, House staff and visitors during the Virginia General Assembly session offering assistance and guidance to those who visit the Capitol.
This year, I was honored to treat these hard-working Pages to dinner from Chick-Fil-A as a small gesture of appreciation for all dedication over the last 60 days. They are such an excellent group of young people.
Applications for the House Page Program open in the fall of each year. If you have a family member, student or neighbor who may be interested in applying, I highly encourage them to review all the requirements and process to apply below. The Senate also offers a Page Program as well. It is such an amazing opportunity for our youth to be engaged in the legislative process.
