Bill > HJR443

This joint resolution establishes a 13-member joint subcommittee to comprehensively study the potential consolidation and rescheduling of Virginia's general elections from odd-numbered to even-numbered years to align with the federal election cycle. The subcommittee will include eight legislative members (three senators and five delegates), four nonlegislative citizen members with specific local government backgrounds, and the Commissioner of Elections as an ex officio member. The two-year study, to be completed by November 30, 2026, will examine the potential impacts of this election schedule change, including effects on voter turnout, campaign costs, election administration, and local government expenses. The subcommittee is tasked with developing detailed recommendations about which elected offices' terms might need adjustment, necessary constitutional and legal amendments, potential budget cycle modifications, and specific implementation strategies. The study is limited to eight total meetings over two years, with a maximum direct cost of $19,840 annually, and will require approval from the Joint Rules Committee. The subcommittee must submit executive summaries of its findings by the first day of the Regular Session for each year, with potential recommendations for publication as an official legislative document.

Budget and Finance

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HJ443