VA HB52

Establishes "beneficial use of dredged material" as official Commonwealth policy, requiring the Marine Resources Commission to mandate such use for all dredging permits unless unsuitable based on Commission-developed criteria

Defines beneficial uses of dredged material as restoration of underwater grasses, island restoration, shoreline stabilization, wetland creation/restoration/enhancement, and fish or shellfish habitat creation/restoration/enhancement

Expands priority consideration for dredged material disposal sites beyond beach nourishment to include all beneficial use projects in the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries

Assigns the Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources responsibility for determining whether dredged material is suitable for beach nourishment or other beneficial uses

Takes effect December 1, 2027, and requires the Commission to establish a work group to assist in developing implementing regulations or guidance