Del. Austin Report From Richmond - Week 4   Richmond, VA (Feb. 9, 2026) - To the Constituents of the 37th House District, Week four of the General Assembly session has concluded, and both pace and partisanship have intensified. As session progresses, it has become increasingly clear that the majority party is using its near supermajority not only to advance its own priorities, but to block Republican legislation that would deliver tangible benefits to Virginians. Several bills that would have real impacts on constituents were defeated late last week, not because of substantive flaws or ideological disagreement, but simply to make a point. This week, Governor Spanberger issued a press release highlighting the first eight bills to advance as part of her administration’s “affordability” agenda. While these measures are presented as steps toward cost relief, most rely on studies, reports, or task forces rather than actions that would deliver immediate or measurable savings for Virginia families. As we have seen with repeated studies of major cost drivers such as the car tax, analysis without implementation rarely produces meaningful relief. Notably absent from this agenda is broad-based tax relief, meaningful incentives to increase housing supply, or measures to reduce fees that continue to increase electricity costs. Republicans have offered alternative proposals addressing the car tax, power bills, and grocery costs, but they have not advanced. On Friday, the Governor signed legislation to enable drastic changes to Virginia’s congressional map and redistricting process. The result is a 10–1 advantage for Democrats and should raise serious concerns for anyone focused on fairness, rural representation, and electoral competitiveness. Several districts span vast and disconnected regions. One stretches from the Washington, D.C., suburbs to Hanover County, another combines Shenandoah County with much of Fairfax County, while others run from Richmond to Southside and from Northern Virginia to Hampton Roads. These configurations are difficult to justify based on geography or shared communities of interest. The Virginia Court of Appeals has forwarded the pending legal challenge to the Supreme Court of Virginia, where it now awaits review. With early voting set to begin 45 days before the election, preparations for a potential special election on the constitutional amendment would need to be underway by early March to meet statutory deadlines. Questions remain as to whether all legal requirements, particularly those related to publication timelines and neutrality standards, have been satisfied. Ultimately, voters will have the final say. I continue to encourage everyone to remain engaged and prepared for an election on April 21. Information on voting options, including permanent absentee status, is available through the Virginia Department of Elections. Against this backdrop of unilateral control, the ability to amend legislation takes on added significance. When the majority chooses to shut down legislation rather than engage, the opportunity to revise problematic bills becomes far more important than it otherwise would be. HB 1377, as originally introduced, contained language that raised concerns about its potential impact on the Virginia Military Institute, particularly regarding its continued state funding. Over the past week, I worked closely with VMI Superintendent General David Furness and the bill’s patron to review the language and discuss revisions. After numerous discussions, a substitute was agreed to. Of particular importance was the removal of language that could have affected VMI’s state funding. Given that VMI operates at the pleasure of the General Assembly, addressing that issue was a priority for me. Other provisions of concern were also removed as part of the amendment process. While not perfect, I join Superintendent Furness in supporting the amended bill as it represents the most appropriate course of action under the circumstances. This week at the Capitol, we welcomed constituents including Ms. Frances Ruley, who advocated for increased cancer resources in recognition of National Cancer Day, and Ms. Judy Casteele, representing Project Horizon, an organization serving some of the most vulnerable members of our community. We also met with constituents promoting tourism in Virginia and defending pro-business policies. I always emphasize the value of face-to-face conversations in Richmond and appreciate those who take the time to travel and share their perspectives. It is an honor to serve you in the Virginia House of Delegates. If I can be of assistance, or if you would like to share your views on any legislative matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at DelTAustin@House.Virginia.gov or 804-698-1037.

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