VA HB521

Establishes a "no net loss" standard for wetland acreage and functions in Virginia, requiring the Marine Resources Commission to promulgate minimum standards achieving this goal

Adds a new permit requirement that all wetland permits must contain compensating mitigation measures sufficient to achieve no net loss of existing wetland acreage and functions

Directs the Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources to convene a stakeholder work group to address mitigation requirements specifically for tidal nonvegetated wetlands

Requires the stakeholder work group to evaluate mitigation options including mitigation banks, in-lieu fee programs, and permittee-responsible mitigation, with a report due to legislative committees by July 1, 2027

Amends Virginia Code §§ 28.2-1301 and 28.2-1308 governing Marine Resources Commission powers and wetlands development standards