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VA HB1299
Bill
Status
Engrossed
2/11/2026
Primary Sponsor
Karrie Delaney
Click for details
AI Summary
- Establishes that the word "shall" in Virginia statutes creates a mandatory requirement, not merely a directory or advisory provision, unless the statute expressly states otherwise
- Adds new section 1-243.1 to the Code of Virginia's rules of construction chapter
- Requires the Virginia Code Commission to review and evaluate how this definitional change would affect existing provisions throughout the Code of Virginia
- Commission must report findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by December 1, 2026
- Provisions will not take effect unless reenacted by the 2027 Session of the General Assembly
Legislative Description
Rules of construction; use of "shall", effective clause, report.
Last Action
Continued to next session in Courts of Justice (11-Y 4-N)
3/9/2026
Committee Referrals
Courts of Justice2/13/2026
Rules: Studies2/2/2026
Rules1/28/2026
Courts of Justice1/15/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available