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SB 155

Brown-belted bumblebee (Bombus griseocollis); designating as the official state native pollinator.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Peake

Virginia designates the brown-belted bumblebee as the official state native pollinator to boost public awareness and support for pollinator conservation efforts.

Referred to Committee on Rules
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Bill Summary · SB 155

Legislative bill overview

SB 155 designates the brown-belted bumblebee (Bombus griseocollis) as Virginia's official state native pollinator. The bill has already passed the Virginia Senate with strong bipartisan support (36-2) and is currently in the House Rules Committee awaiting consideration.

Why is this important

Designating a state pollinator raises public awareness about native pollinators and their ecological importance to agriculture, food production, and natural ecosystems. Such symbolic legislation can lead to increased funding for pollinator conservation programs, habitat protection initiatives, and educational efforts about local species that support Virginia's agricultural economy.

Potential points of contention

  • Limited practical impact: Symbolic designations create minimal legal or regulatory change; critics may argue legislative time is better spent on substantive pollinator protection measures with enforcement mechanisms
  • Species selection rationale: Questions may arise about why this particular bumblebee species was chosen over others, and whether the selection reflects scientific priorities or regional considerations
  • Unfunded conservation: Designation without accompanying appropriations for habitat restoration or research funding may be viewed as performative rather than substantive environmental policy

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

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