VA HJR7

Directs the Department of Workforce Development and Advancement, in collaboration with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, to study the feasibility of creating an optional service year program for recent high school graduates

Requires review of Maryland's "Service Year Option" program established in 2023, analyzing employer and graduate participation rates, regional differences, and program completion percentages

Mandates estimation of start-up costs, staffing needs, and ongoing operating expenses the Commonwealth would bear to establish and maintain a similar program

Requires recommendations for strategies to encourage public and private employer participation and incentivize high school graduates to enroll, including analysis of hours and training requirements

Study must be completed by November 30, 2026, with findings and recommendations submitted to the Governor and General Assembly by the first day of the 2027 Regular Session