Virginia Farmers Gather in Richmond for Legislative Advocacy

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More than 100 Virginia agriculture leaders are gathering in Richmond on February 9th for an annual event known as Legislative Day. The event, rescheduled due to Winter Storm Fern, will allow farmers and foresters to advocate for their legislative priorities with state lawmakers.

Why it matters

This annual advocacy event gives Virginia's agriculture community a direct line to policymakers, allowing them to push for funding, regulations, and legislation that support the state's farming and forestry industries. Key issues include securing full funding for agricultural best management practices, establishing labeling requirements for alternative protein products, and addressing the shortage of rural large animal veterinarians.

The details

At the top of the agenda is fully funding the Agricultural Best Management Cost Share Program, which helps farmers implement practices to improve Chesapeake Bay water quality. While Governor Younkin's budget included record-high funding for this program, it still fell short of the full amount sought by the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation (VFBF). Lawmakers are now carrying budget amendments to reach the desired funding level through 2028. Other priorities include establishing labeling requirements for alternative protein products, maintaining tax relief for forestland owners, and securing grants to protect waterways on logging jobs.

• The Legislative Day event is scheduled for February 9, 2026.
• The event was originally planned for an earlier date but was rescheduled due to Winter Storm Fern.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Lawmakers will consider the agriculture community's legislative priorities during the ongoing General Assembly session. The outcome of key bills and budget amendments will determine the success of the advocacy efforts.