VA SJR23

Directs the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) to study the need for and feasibility of creating a Secretariat of Rural Affairs in Virginia

Rural Virginia faces significant disparities including a 14.9% poverty rate compared to 8.5% in metropolitan areas, approximately 33% of rural hospitals at risk of closing, and an estimated 133,000 homes and businesses lacking broadband access as of July 2025

JLARC must evaluate whether divisions from 12 agencies could be consolidated under the new Secretariat, including the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and Department of Housing and Community Development

The study must assess potential staffing models, funding needs, and whether alternative structural reforms might be more effective than creating a new Secretariat

JLARC must complete meetings by October 1, 2027, and submit an executive summary of findings and recommendations by December 1, 2027