WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 992

Administrative Process Act; regulatory economic analysis required.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Garrett

Bill requires Virginia agencies to analyze economic costs and benefits before adopting regulations, aiming to ensure rules are necessary and cost-effective.

Subcommittee recommends striking from the docket (9-Y 0-N)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 992

Legislative bill overview

HB 992 would require Virginia state agencies to conduct detailed economic analyses before adopting new regulations, including assessments of costs, benefits, and impacts on small businesses and consumers. The bill modifies the state's Administrative Process Act to mandate these analyses as part of the regulatory development process.

Why is this important

Regulatory economic analysis requirements affect how state government creates rules that govern businesses and citizens. Such requirements can slow regulatory implementation but aim to ensure rules are cost-effective and necessary, influencing everything from business compliance costs to consumer protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Agencies may argue that comprehensive economic analyses require significant resources and expertise, potentially delaying necessary regulations
  • Regulatory philosophy divide: Supporters view this as promoting efficient government; opponents may see it as a tool to obstruct environmental, worker safety, or consumer protection regulations
  • Small business impact assessment: Defining and measuring effects on small businesses could be contentious, with disagreement over which analyses are truly predictive versus speculative

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.