Legislation amending financial disclosure requirements under the State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act (COIA) is heading to the Governor’s desk, with SB 530 (Srinivasan) establishing a state-managed electronic filing system for local officials. This bill represents a shift in how local governments will manage compliance with COIA requirements, moving from largely local, paper-based processes to a centralized system operated by the Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council. Under the legislation, local elected officials, certain employees, and candidates will be required to file their annual disclosure forms electronically through the Council’s system. The legislation standardizes filing practices across the Commonwealth and places primary responsibility for system administration and oversight at the state level, with coordination involving general registrars and the Department of Elections.
The bill includes a phased implementation schedule that reflects differences in local capacity but ultimately requires all localities to transition to the new system. Larger jurisdictions will be required to comply first, beginning in 2028, followed by mid-sized localities in 2029, and all remaining counties and cities by 2030. While optional early participation is permitted, the mandate will apply statewide within the next several years. The bill passed the Seante unanimously and was approved by the House of Delegates on a vote of 82-15.
VACo Contact: Jeremy R. Bennett