Legislative Update: Now’s the Time to Engage Locally on 2026 Priorities

As we move into the fall, the City of Winchester, Frederick County, and Clarke County are all beginning discussions about their 2026 Legislative Agendas—the local priorities they’ll share with our representatives in Richmond ahead of the next General Assembly session.

That means now is the time for business and community voices to be heard. Over the next several weeks, each locality’s City Council and Boards of Supervisors will identify issues they want to elevate at the state level—ranging from education funding and transportation improvements to infrastructure investments like water, sewer, and broadband.

If there are state-level regulations, policies, or funding decisions that impact your business or industry, this is your opportunity to weigh in. Reach out to your local elected officials and share your perspective:

• What’s working well that you want to see protected or maintained?
• What state policies or regulations are holding your business back?
• What state investments could improve your ability to grow, hire, or serve your customers?

Remember, your input helps shape the priorities that our local governments bring to Richmond. These legislative agendas are the foundation for the advocacy work done each year on behalf of our communities.

The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber of Commerce will continue to monitor and engage with these local processes as the 2026 General Assembly session approaches—but your voice matters most at the local level, right now.

Take Action This Month: Contact your City Council member or County Supervisor and make sure your business priorities are part of the conversation.

 

City Council & Mayor - City of Winchester, VA

Board of Supervisors | Clarke County, VA

Board Members and Contact Info | Frederick County