Legislative Updates

It’s January 2026 — Happy New Year, everyone! 🐝

January also means the Virginia General Assembly is back in session in Richmond. The Session began on January 14, and new legislation is being introduced daily for the next few weeks.

Two bills have already appeared that give beekeepers a real opportunity to remind legislators that we are an essential part of Virginia’s agricultural industry (and why that matters is important).

📜 Bills to Know About

SB 155🔗 https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB155Adds bumble bees to the list of state-designated Native Pollinators.Patron: Sen. Mark Peake (Lynchburg area)

This bill builds on our success two years ago when Apis mellifera was named Virginia’s State Pollinator. The VSBA Board voted to support this bill because we believe in advocating for all pollinators and strengthening public awareness of their importance.

HB 869🔗 https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB869Gives preference to locally grown and produced farm products (including honey) when purchased by state agencies or agencies receiving state funding.Patron: Del. Rae Cousins (Richmond)

This bill updates Virginia’s Public Procurement code. The VSBA Board also voted to support this legislation, as it directly benefits Virginia beekeepers and farmers by prioritizing local products.

📣 Why You Should Reach Out to Your Legislators

• You only need to contact two people:

  • Your Delegate

  • Your Senator

  👉 Tip: Put “I’m a Constituent” in the subject line — it will be read.

• Find your legislators here:🔗 https://whosmy.virginiageneralassembly.gov/

• Let them know you’re a beekeeper.If they have questions about beekeeping, invite them to call you.

• The General Assembly does not currently view beekeepers as a core part of Virginia agriculture — that needs to change.

• Legislators love bees, but competing interests (pesticides, herbicides, and related industries) are well-organized and persuasive.Last year’s bill requiring notice before pesticide spraying failed far too easily.

🐝 Why This Matters

Legislators only know people care about an issue when someone tells them.This is the moment to introduce yourself, share your experience, and remind them that beekeepers matter — to agriculture, food security, and Virginia’s environment.

Now is the time. 💛