Justin Pence
- Virginia Democrats Push Extreme Abortion Amendment Threatening Unborn Lives
Virginia Democrats have advanced two significant ballot amendments set for the November election that critics argue undermine traditional family values and the sanctity of life. The measures, passed through the state legislature in successive sessions, include a proposed constitutional change framed as protecting reproductive freedom.
- Advocate Highlights Deceptive Nature of Firearm Buy-Back Programs in Virginia
The advocate pointed out that buyback events present themselves as solutions for individuals unsure about what to do with unwanted guns. In reality, she stated, many of these firearms end up being auctioned to federal firearms licensees rather than being destroyed.
- Virginia Democrats Push $714 Million State Employee Pay Raise Funded by New Taxes
As Virginia lawmakers finalize the massive budget for the upcoming 2026-2028 biennium, fiscal conservatives are raising urgent alarms over a reckless expansion in permanent state spending. Governor Abigail Spanberger and Democratic legislative leaders have agreed to a 3.5 percent across-the-board pay bump for state employees, which will cost hardworking taxpayers an estimated $714 million.
- Virginia Mother Urges Action to Shield Families from Nitrous Oxide Risks in Local Shops
Health Impacts of Legal Nitrous Oxide The substance affects critical body systems including the legs and lungs as described in the detailed account presented to lawmakers. Medical professionals have outlined the mechanism by which nitrous oxide enters and exits the body leading to lasting damage.
- Virginia Taxpayers Foot the Bill for Massive Housing Subsidies in FY2027 Budget
The newly finalized budget for the Commonwealth of Virginia includes a staggering allocation of state funds directed toward affordable housing initiatives for the fiscal year 2027. Lawmakers have approved a massive $187.5 million in total biennial support for the Virginia Housing Trust Fund, which features a specific $100 million expenditure strictly for FY2027.
- Virginia Taxpayers Burdened with Sweeping State Employee Raises in New Biennium Budget
The newly finalized Virginia budget for the 2026-2028 biennium places a massive financial burden on hardworking taxpayers to fund sweeping salary increases for government workers. Governor Abigail Spanberger recently signed off on a spending plan that mandates a 3.5 percent annual salary increase for state employees and state-supported local employees across the board.
- Virginia Taxpayers Face Record Education Bill as State Spends Billions Despite Declining Enrollment
The state of Virginia has officially enacted a budget that includes a staggering two billion dollars in new public education funding. This record-breaking allocation represents the largest single investment in public education in the history of the commonwealth, placing an immense long-term burden on hardworking taxpayers.
- Virginia Lawmakers Allocate $1 Billion to Backfill Federal Healthcare Cuts, Sparking Overspending Concerns
As the federal government finally takes steps to rein in out-of-control spending, Virginia lawmakers are moving aggressively to shift those financial burdens directly onto state taxpayers. Legislators are currently advancing a budget proposal that allocates a staggering $1 billion in reserves for contingency funding to respond to federal funding reductions.
- Governor Abigail Spanberger Pushes Five Million Dollar Budget Expansion for New Digital Services Bureaucracy
Governor Abigail Spanberger recently announced her fiscal year 2027 budget proposal, which includes a significant financial request to fund a newly created Virginia Digital Service team. The proposed budget allocates five million dollars to fully launch this new technology initiative for the 2026 to 2028 biennium budget cycle.
- Virginia Taxpayers Face Continued Spending Surge with $98.4 Million Education Supplement
Virginia lawmakers are advancing a massive spending initiative that includes a $98.4 million one-time supplement to the At-Risk Add-On program for public school divisions. This latest financial maneuver is officially intended to address specific local operating or capital needs throughout the upcoming biennium.
- Virginia Taxpayers on the Hook for $10 Million Expansion of Renamed Special Education Bureaucracy
Virginia taxpayers are facing another significant budget expansion as state officials push forward a massive $10.0 million funding increase for the fiscal year 2027 education budget. The general fund appropriation specifically targets the newly rebranded Support for Students with Intense Support Needs Application, formerly known as the Special Education Regional Tuition program.
- Historic Virginia Education Budget Raises Red Flags for Fiscal Conservatives and Taxpayers
The newly proposed Virginia state budget introduces a staggering financial commitment to public education, raising serious concerns for fiscal conservatives focused on protecting taxpayer dollars. Lawmakers have approved a sweeping plan that includes a 4% salary increase for teachers and school support staff in both fiscal years 2027 and 2028.
- Virginia Taxpayers Face Massive K-12 Spending Hike With $98.4 Million Budget Supplement
The proposed Virginia budget for fiscal year 2027 includes a $98.4 million one-time supplement to the At-Risk Add-On program for public school divisions. This large allocation would give local districts broad flexibility to address operating or capital needs throughout the coming biennium with minimal state oversight.
- Taxpayers on the Hook for Massive $115.3 Million James Madison University Expansion
Virginia taxpayers are facing a massive financial burden as the upcoming FY2027 state budget includes a staggering $115.3 million allocation for a single building expansion at James Madison University. This nine-figure appropriation from the General Fund is earmarked for the College of Health and Behavioral Studies, representing a significant capital expenditure during a time of
- Virginia Allocates $116.3 Million for School Bonuses Amid Growing Budget Concerns
The state of Virginia is preparing to distribute a staggering $116.3 million in taxpayer funds to cover a one-time bonus payment for public school employees. This substantial financial commitment targets funded Standards of Quality instructional and support positions across the commonwealth.
- Virginia’s $117.6 Million Education Bonus Highlights Concerns Over State Spending and Local Tax Burdens
Virginia lawmakers are once again reaching into the general fund, this time allocating $117.6 million for a one-time bonus program aimed at public education employees. The amendment specifically provides a flat $1,500 bonus for state-recognized instructional and support positions across the commonwealth.
- Virginia Budget Conceals Millions in Spending Under Generic Program Names
Virginia taxpayers are facing massive state expenditures hidden behind vaguely named programs that make financial oversight nearly impossible. The recent state budget allocates a staggering $72.5 million over the biennium for community violence intervention programs.
- Virginia’s $148.4 Million Special Education Budget Hike Raises Fiscal Alarms
Virginia lawmakers are currently debating a massive $148.4 million allocation drawn directly from the General Fund for the 2026-2028 biennium. This staggering sum is specifically earmarked for special education students under the Direct Aid to Public Education umbrella.
- Historic $2 Billion Education Spending Sparks Conservative Concerns Over Government Bloat in Virginia
The newly proposed Virginia biennium budget for fiscal years 2027 and 2028 introduces a staggering level of state spending that has raised significant concerns among fiscal conservatives. At the center of this financial blueprint is a historic two billion dollar allocation in new public education funding, marking the largest single investment of its kind in
- Fiscal Restraint Needed as Virginia Allocates $30 Million for Local Business Site Development
As Virginia lawmakers finalize the fiscal year 2027 budget, a renewed focus on economic development spending has sparked discussions among fiscal conservatives regarding the proper use of taxpayer dollars. The budget includes an additional $10 million General Fund allocation for the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program, bringing the total first-year funding to $30 million.
- Virginia’s New Data Center Tax: A Billion-Dollar Excuse for Government Expansion
Virginia lawmakers have officially adopted a first-of-its-kind statewide energy consumption tax on data centers, sparking concerns among fiscal conservatives about government overreach and unchecked spending. The new levy imposes a $0.011 per kilowatt-hour charge on all electricity consumed by these facilities, which is projected to generate up to $600 million annually for state coffers.
- Bon Air Facility Overhaul Essential to Restore Order in Juvenile Corrections
Infrastructure Upgrades Target Core Deficiencies Plans call for expanding capacity at the Bon Air campus while enhancing overall conditions to support better operations. The Oakridge facility is slated for renovation to serve as a dedicated 40-bed standalone site focused on vocational work programs.
- Virginia Budget Explodes with $17.6 Million Handout for Universal School Breakfasts
Virginia taxpayers are currently facing a significant financial burden as the state budget allocates a staggering $17.6 million to increase school breakfast reimbursement rates. This massive funding initiative, slated for the upcoming FY2027-FY2028 fiscal biennium, aims to push more school divisions into the controversial federal Community Eligibility Provision.
- Hidden Mandates: Virginia Taxpayers Foot the Bill for $11.1 Million in Concealed Central Appropriations
A staggering $11,125,212 allocation tucked away in the Virginia state budget under the vague category of “Central Appropriations” is raising serious alarm bells among fiscal conservatives. The massive expenditure, slated exclusively for the 2028 fiscal year, is explicitly designated to fund the controversial provisions of House Bill 5 from the 2026 General Assembly.
- Virginia Lawmakers Push Costly Bureaucratic Expansion with New Marijuana Marketplace Budget
Virginia taxpayers are facing a massive bureaucratic expansion as state lawmakers push forward with a costly framework for a legal recreational marijuana marketplace. The newly amended budget reveals a staggering funding increase to establish retail sales by July 2027, raising serious concerns about government waste, fraud, and overspending.
- Virginia Booth Stands Out at State Fair for Lack of Presence and Locked Doors
At the America 250 Great American State Fair, Virginia distinguished itself among participating states by having its booth locked and unattended while others remained open to visitors. This observation highlights differences in how states approached their exhibits during the event celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.
- Legislation to Create Waste to Energy Grant Program Introduced in Virginia House
During the 2026 Regular Session of the Virginia General Assembly, House Bill 115 was introduced to establish a grant program intended to support waste-to-energy disposal methods for certain localities. The bill proposes the creation of the Waste to Energy Grant Program administered by the Department of Environmental Quality.
- Virginia Bill Introduced to Provide Flexibility for Local Election Dates
In the ongoing 2026 session of the Virginia General Assembly, a significant proposal has emerged regarding the administration of local elections across the Commonwealth. Delegate Rob Bloxom introduced House Bill 51 on December 29, 2025.
- Virginia Legislature Advances Tough Measures on Juvenile Delinquency with HB 123
RICHMOND, VA – In a decisive move to enhance accountability for delinquent youth, the Virginia General Assembly has passed House Bill 123, a comprehensive measure addressing loss of driving privileges for children involved in alcohol, firearm, drug offenses, and truancy. The bill, introduced by Delegate Atoosa Reaser as chief patron, sailed through both chambers with
- Virginia Legislature Delivers Bipartisan Victory for Judicial Safety with Unanimous Passage of HB124
RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia General Assembly has sent a clear message in support of protecting those who uphold justice, unanimously passing House Bill 124 to enhance penalties for assaults against district court temporary recall judges. The measure, now awaiting action from the Governor, adds these dedicated public servants to the list of protected judicial
- With Virginia back in, RGGI Futures price tops $41 per ton
By Steve Haner, The carbon tax (allocation price) per ton that is charged by the RGGI Compact to any electricity generator using coal, oil or gas. The price of carbon credits on the secondary market for the cap-and-trade multistate system has increased due to Virginia’s imminent return to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
- Virginia Democrats Force ‘Insurrection’ Label on January 6th in School Curricula Through HB 333
The bill, introduced early in the 2026 legislative session, quickly became a flashpoint in debates over education standards and historical interpretation. Helmer, an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran who serves as Campaigns Chair for Virginia House Democrats, took to the floor of the House of Delegates to champion the enrolled version of HB 333.
- Virginia Democrats Mocked for Out-of-Touch Remarks on Rural Life During Gerrymandering Debate
Republicans have long championed reforms to prevent the manipulation of district lines that dilute the voice of rural voters, ensuring fair representation for communities outside the Washington, D.C. suburbs. The amendment in question seeks to address ongoing concerns about partisan redistricting practices that have favored densely populated urban areas, often at the expense of Virginia’s
- Virginia Democrats Kathy Tran Pass Bill Imposing Three-Year Gun, Ammo, and Explosives Ban for Misdemeanor Hate Crime Convictions
Delegate Kathy Tran, representing Fairfax District 21, was seen advocating for the measure during House proceedings. The bill targets those convicted of misdemeanor assault and battery offenses that also qualify as hate crimes.
- Virginia Legislature Delivers Bipartisan Win for Judicial Efficiency with Passage of HB 128
RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia General Assembly concluded action on House Bill 128 on March 12, 2026, when the House of Delegates agreed to a Senate substitute by a vote of 97-1 with no abstentions. This final step propels the bill, which enhances the certification process for ancillary traffic infractions in felony cases, to Governor
- Virginia Legislature Delivers Win for Educational Excellence the International Baccalaureate Program
RICHMOND, Va. – In a decisive move to reward academic rigor and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, the Virginia General Assembly has sent HB595 to Governor Glenn Youngkin for his signature. The legislation, which incorporates key provisions from HB132 introduced by Delegate Marcus Simon, streamlines graduation requirements for students pursuing the internationally renowned International Baccalaureate (I
- Senator Sturtevant Exposes Democrat Gerrymandering Scheme in Virginia Redistricting Battle
In 2021, Virginians overwhelmingly approved constitutional amendments creating bipartisan commissions to draw congressional and legislative maps, putting an end to the long-standing practice of partisan gerrymandering. These commissions produced maps that reflected the commonwealth’s true political makeup, fostering competitive districts where voters, not politicians, determine outcomes.
- Republican-Backed HB130 Aims to Extend Vital Cancer Protections to Virginia Sheriffs and Deputies
RICHMOND, VA – In a strong show of support for Virginia’s frontline law enforcement, Delegate Mitchell Cornett introduced House Bill 130 during the 2026 Regular Session of the Virginia General Assembly. The legislation seeks to amend Section 65.2-402 of the Code of Virginia, expanding workers’ compensation presumptions for certain cancers to include sheriffs and deputy
- Virginia to Expand Conservation Easement Eligibility for Federally Recognized Tribes
RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia House of Delegates approved House Bill 134 on February 3, 2026, passing it by a vote of 93 to 5. This measure updates the Virginia Conservation Easement Act to enable federally recognized tribes to serve as holders of conservation easements.
- Virginia Enacts Legislation Granting Courts Discretion on Driving Privilege Denials for Truancy in Delinquent Youth Cases
The Virginia General Assembly has taken action to refine the state’s laws on juvenile driving privileges through the passage of House Bill 123 during the 2026 regular session. This legislation amends and reenacts Section 16.1-278.9 of the Code of Virginia, which deals with delinquent children and the loss of driving privileges associated with alcohol, firearm,
- House of Delegates: Josh Cole Pushes HB 702 Firearm Return Program
HB 702, which advanced through committee and was referred to Appropriations earlier in the session, seeks to formalize these return initiatives across Virginia. Supporters like Cole argue that the change in terminology better reflects the program’s intent, allowing citizens to turn in unwanted firearms in a safe and organized manner.
- New Law Prohibiting Bribery to Influence Voter Registration
In Richmond, the Virginia General Assembly has taken a decisive step to protect the integrity of elections by passing House Bill 113, which targets bribery in the voter registration process. This new law amends Section 24.2-1007 of the Code of Virginia and establishes clear prohibitions against soliciting or accepting bribes to influence decisions about registering
- Virginia to Require Religious Accommodations at Public Colleges and Universities
The Virginia General Assembly has passed and the governor has signed into law House Bill 131, which establishes mandates for public institutions of higher education to provide reasonable accommodations for students’ religious beliefs and practices. This legislation, designated as Chapter in the Acts of Assembly for the 2026 session, adds Section 23.1-401.4 to the Code
- Medical Marijuana Can Now Be Used by Terminally Ill Patients in Medical Care Facilities
RICHMOND, Va. — The core purpose of the bill is to ensure that patients with terminal illnesses can continue their use of medical cannabis when receiving care in hospitals and other medical facilities. The bill defines a patient for the purposes of this section as a person who has a terminal illness.
- Virginia set to Expand Workers’ Compensation Cancer Presumption to Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs
Richmond, Virginia — Delegate Mitchell Cornett introduced House Bill 130 in the Virginia House of Delegates during the 2026 Regular Session. The legislation is designed to amend and reenact section 65.2-402 of the Code of Virginia, relating to workers’ compensation and the presumption for certain cancers affecting sheriffs and deputy sheriffs.
- Legislation Authorizing Local Vehicle Noise Monitoring Programs
The Virginia General Assembly has approved House Bill 55, which establishes provisions for noise abatement monitoring systems to be used by local authorities in enforcing motor vehicle exhaust regulations. This legislation adds a dedicated section to the Virginia Code and makes corresponding changes to existing statutes on motor vehicle records.
- Abigail Spanberger Approves Expanded Provisions for Child Custody Relief Petitions in Juvenile Courts
In Richmond, the Governor has given final approval to legislation that broadens the scope of who can seek judicial relief from the care and custody of children in Virginia’s juvenile and domestic relations district courts. The measure, House Bill 73, was approved by the Governor on April 6, 2026, becoming Chapter 58 of the 2026
- Virginia Legislature Enacts Sweeping Prohibitions on Cosmetic Ingredients with HB 122 Passage
RICHMOND, VA – In a late-session move, the Virginia General Assembly has finalized passage of House Bill 122, imposing strict bans on the manufacturing, sale, delivery, and offering for sale of cosmetic products containing specific ingredients. The measure, prefiled on January 2, 2026, by Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra and ordered printed as offered on January 14,
- Virginia School Leaders Sound Alarm on Governor’s Collective Bargaining Push as Taxpayer Burden Looms
The bill, introduced in the Senate by Majority Leader Scott Surovell, seeks to dramatically expand collective bargaining rights to public sector employees, including teachers, police officers, and other government workers. Proponents claim it would address staff vacancies, turnover, and wage disparities by empowering unions to negotiate contracts.
- Don Scott allegedly told Virginia Military Institute board members to resign or suffer state funding cuts
Don Scott, Democratic Speaker of Virginia House, (circled), with Maj. Gen.