RICHMOND, VA (April 20, 2026) – The Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) and the Virginia Municipal League (VML) today responded to Governor Abigail Spanberger’s proposed amendments to HB 1263 / SB 378, noting the Administration’s engagement with local government concerns.
VACo and VML appreciate the Governor’s decision to amend the legislation to delay the main implementation for local governments until January 1, 2030, providing localities with additional needed time to prepare for potential changes.
“Counties across Virginia have been clear about the importance of maintaining local flexibility in workforce decisions,” VACo Executive Director Dean Lynch said. “VACo had requested a veto of this legislation, but we appreciate that Governor Spanberger carefully considered the concerns raised by local governments and took meaningful steps to address them through her amendments.”
“This legislation is complex and will require significant local resources to implement,” VML Executive Director Michelle Gowdy said. “Additional time to prepare for a change of this magnitude is helpful.”
While the amendments provide additional time and clarity, VACo and VML will continue to work with members and state leaders to monitor the impact of the legislation and advocate for policies that preserve local authority and flexibility. VACo and VML remain committed to supporting localities as they navigate this evolving policy landscape and will provide ongoing guidance and resources in the months and years ahead.
VACo and VML look forward to continuing to engage cooperatively with the Governor on this and other important issues facing local governments and the Commonwealth.
Sincerely,
Dean A. Lynch, CAE
Executive Director
Virginia Association of Counties
Michelle Gowdy
Executive Director
Virginia Municipal League