Virginia Lawmakers Debate University Governing Board Reforms

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Democratic state lawmakers in Virginia are proposing legislation to adjust the process for appointing members to public university governing boards and to allow higher education institutions to hire their own legal counsel, rather than relying solely on the state attorney general's office.

Why it matters

The proposed reforms are aimed at reducing political influence over university governance and giving institutions more autonomy in legal matters. Supporters argue this will help insulate public colleges from partisan politics, while critics contend the changes could undermine state oversight.

The details

A key bill, House Bill 1385 introduced by Del. Lily Franklin, D-Blacksburg, would require that appointments to university boards be "primarily motivated by loyalty to the institution" rather than "loyalty to a political party, political candidate, or individual holding elective partisan public office." The legislation would also allow public colleges to hire their own legal counsel, rather than relying solely on the state attorney general's office.

• The bills are being debated by the Virginia legislature in the 2026 session.

What’s next

The bills will continue to be debated and considered by the Virginia legislature in the coming months.