Bill > HJR43

This resolution directs the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC), a state agency that conducts studies for the legislature, to investigate whether it is necessary and practical to establish a new state government office called the Secretariat of Rural Affairs. This study is prompted by the recognition that rural Virginians face significant challenges, including lower quality of life, educational attainment, and health outcomes compared to urban residents, as well as weaker economic growth and limited access to essential services like broadband. The JLARC will examine how current government agencies are serving rural areas, how a new Secretariat could improve access to housing, employment, healthcare, and other vital services, and whether specific divisions from various state departments could be placed under this new Secretariat. The study will also consider how funding streams might be managed, potential staffing and financial needs, and how the Secretariat could collaborate with existing rural advocacy groups. Finally, JLARC will explore alternative structural reforms that might be more effective and cost-efficient than creating a new Secretariat to improve life in rural communities, with a report due by December 1, 2026.

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HJ43