Virginia Senate Bill SB769

Virginia 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/26
• Refer: 1/22/26
• Report Pass: 1/22/26
• Engrossed: 1/26/26
• Refer: 1/29/26

Caption

A BILL to amend and reenact Items 5 and 6 and Enactments 14, 15, and 16 of Chapter 725 of the Acts of Assembly of 2025, which appropriates the public revenues for two years ending, respectively, on June 30, 2025, and June 30, 2026, and to amend Chapter 725 of the Acts of Assembly of 2025, which appropriates the public revenues for two years ending, respectively, on June 30, 2025, and June 30, 2026, by adding an item numbered 78.10 and by adding enactments numbered 17, 18, 19, and 20 which appropriates the public revenues for two years ending, respectively, on June 30, 2025, and June 30, 2026; and to provide for the submission to the voters of proposed amendments to the Constitution of Virginia by amending Section 6 of Article II and by adding in the Schedule a section numbered 6; and to repeal § 30-13 of the Code of Virginia, relating to the general appropriation act; Department of Elections.

Impact

The legislation aims to amend Section 6 of Article II of the Virginia Constitution, ensuring electoral districts are drawn in a manner that is representative of the population while adhering to federal laws regarding equity and fairness. This potential amendment signifies a shift in how congressional districts may be structured, offering a way to restore fairness in elections while also committing to return to the established redistricting process after the 2030 census. The proposed changes would affect how representation is calculated and executed within Virginia's legislative framework.

Summary

Senate Bill 769 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Virginia that seeks to address the apportionment and redistricting of congressional districts. The bill allows the General Assembly to make temporary modifications to congressional districts in response to external redistricting actions taken by other states, specifically between January 1, 2025, and October 31, 2030. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity and fairness of electoral representation in Virginia during that period, especially if another state undergoes redistricting that could impact electoral balance.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 769 appears to be contentious, as it raises questions about the role of state authority in modifying congressional districts. Supporters argue that the amendment is necessary for ensuring fair representation and responding adeptly to changes in other states' districting practices. Conversely, critics may view this as an opportunity for political maneuvering, fearing it could lead to further partisanship in the drawing of electoral maps, undermining the intended fairness of the process.

Contention

A point of contention in SB 769 is the possibility that its implementation could lead to abuses of the redistricting process, as it grants significant power to the General Assembly to modify districts temporarily. Concerns have been raised about the potential for partisan motivation behind such changes, which could influence electoral outcomes and public perceptions of the electoral process's integrity. Furthermore, ensuring that the amendment only serves to 'restore fairness' can be subjective and may lead to disputes over when and how modifications should occur.