In just three months, FACS staff and advocates held dozens of meetings with key legislators, sent hundreds of letters to their representatives, and worked closely with our state partners to make sure critical legislation was moving forward. Thus, HB 153 and HB 893 have been passed by the General Assembly and are on their way to the Governor’s desk to be signed:
- Data Center Transparency (HB 153), Bill Patron: Del. Josh Thomas — Requires local governments to have a site assessment measuring noise levels, the impact on water supply, and other critical factors before approving construction of new, high-energy facilities, such as data centers, within 500 feet of residential communities and schools.
- Electric Utilities and Energy Storage Facilities (HB 893), Bill Patron: Del. Rip Sullivan — Makes it easier to build energy storage facilities that can help manage the grid’s capacity and increase storage for renewable energy.
This is a HUGE victory, and the FACS community should be very proud of the role we played in helping move these valuable pieces of legislation forward.
Additionally, the General Assembly has just sent legislation (HB 1234) to the Governor’s desk that would authorize localities to have measures requiring solar canopies to be built on non-residential parking lots with over 100 spots. FACS was supportive of this bill during session and, once signed by the governor, it is a concept we are looking forward to using as a way to potentially see more solar canopies in places like Fairfax County and other communities in Virginia.
Hear from Virginia State Senators on March 26 at 7 PM!
On March 26 at 7 PM, FACS is covering highlights from the 2026 General Assembly session with special guest speakers from the legislature. The first guest speaker will be Virginia State Senator Danica Roem. More will be announced closer to the event. Additionally, we’ll share opportunities to be an advocate on the local level through the county budget process and you’ll be able to see a clear connection between FACS’ state and local efforts.
About the Author
As FACS’ Advocacy Director, Bryan Scrafford can answer all your questions about advocacy on the state and local levels along with legislation FACS is actively supporting. Contact Bryan at bryan@faithforclimate.org.