From the VA Senate Democratic Caucus:
Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus Releases First Bills on Legislative Agenda Focused on Affordability
RICHMOND, VA — The Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus announced today that its members are filing the first pieces of legislation for the upcoming 2026 General Assembly Session. These bills are foundational to Virginia Democrats deliberate effort to tackle the rising costs facing families across the Commonwealth.
Senate Democrats are prioritizing policies that make life more affordable, strengthen economic stability, and ensure every Virginian has access to the tools they need to build a secure future. This early action reflects months of outreach, community conversations, and feedback from Virginians who are calling for meaningful relief and long-term solutions.
“Our caucus is moving quickly because Virginians cannot afford to wait,” said Senator Scott Surovell, Senate Majority Leader. “From housing costs to utility bills to access to healthcare, families are feeling pressure in every direction. We are committed to passing legislation that gives Virginians real breathing room and makes their day-to-day lives easier.”
Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus Chair Mamie E. Locke emphasized that the Senate’s work will be rooted in people first solutions: “Affordability is the issue we hear about more than any other. Senate Democrats are focused on tackling the costs that strain family budgets and block opportunity. We are prepared with strong legislation that improves economic security and supports working families that strengthens Virginia.”
Senator Lashrecse Aird, Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus Policy Chair, highlights the Caucus’ momentum heading into session: “With the election cycle behind us, we’re already hard at work to show Virginian’s our plan to deliver for them right away. With a new Democratic governor and a unified Democratic legislature, these first bills will take meaningful steps to reduce costs, strengthen economic security, and build a more affordable Commonwealth for everyone.”
The first bills Virginia Senate Democrats are filing address the cost-of-living challenges, including:
- Senate Bill 1: Minimum Wage Increase, sponsored by Senator L. Louise Lucas, Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee Chair
- Senate Bill 2: Paid Family Medical Leave, sponsored by Senator Jennifer Boysko
- Senate Bill 3: Child Care Employee Assistance Program, sponsored by Senator Lashrecse Aird, Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus Policy Chair
- Senate Bill 4: Universal Free Breakfast Program, sponsored by Senator Danica Roem
- Senate Bill 5: Weatherization Task Force, sponsored by Senator Mamie E. Locke, Senate Rules Committee Chair
The Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting fundamental rights by passing several constitutional amendments during the 2025 session. Under the Virginia Constitution, these amendments must pass again in 2026 before appearing on the November 2026 ballot for voters to decide.
The amendments advanced by the Virginia Senate Democrats this year include:
- SJ 1: Constitutional amendment that guarantees the fundamental right to reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy in Virginia.
- SJ 2: Constitutional amendment to clarify voter qualifications in Virginia, ensuring that all votes placed by eligible citizens are fully protected under the state constitution
- SJ 3: Constitutional amendment affirms marriage as a union between two individuals, regardless of gender, sex, religion, or other factors.
Additional legislation will be introduced as Senators continue their outreach and collaboration with communities across Virginia.
