Bill
SJ 358
Ceremonial resolution commends STIHL, Inc. for 50+ years in Virginia Beach, highlighting ~3,000 jobs, strong economic impact, workforce development, and community contributions.
Status and basic facts
- Bill: Senate Joint Resolution No. 358 (SJ358ER)
- Title: Commending STIHL, Inc.
- Introduced: February 7, 2025
- Enacted/Enrolled: Passed both chambers and enrolled as SJ358ER
- Agreed to by the Senate: February 13, 2025
- Agreed to by the House of Delegates: February 17, 2025
- Enrolled: February 19, 2025
- Purpose: Ceremonial resolution recognizing and commending STIHL, Inc. for its long-standing presence and contributions in Virginia Beach and the Commonwealth.
Purpose and intent
- The General Assembly commends STIHL, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of STIHL International GmbH, for more than 50 years of operations in Virginia Beach.
- The resolution expresses admiration for STIHL’s economic contributions, workforce development efforts, corporate citizenship, and role in enhancing Virginia’s reputation as a favorable place to do business.
Key provisions and statements of fact
- Location and longevity: STIHL, Inc. has been located in Virginia Beach for more than 50 years; construction of the Virginia Beach facility began in 1974.
- Scale and reach: The facility is among the Commonwealth’s largest manufacturing sites, with nearly 3,000 employees on a two million-square-foot site; ships products to more than 90 countries.
- Economic and community impact: STIHL supports educational programs, environmental sustainability, and critical research; engages in workforce development through a manufacturing technology summer camp for high school students and a model apprenticeship program.
- Collaboration and regional impact: Works with the Virginia Manufacturing Association and the Manufacturing Development Commission to bolster Virginia’s business climate and attract other companies.
- Industry leadership: Described as the top-selling brand of handheld outdoor power equipment in the United States, with thousands of dealers nationwide.
- Ceremonial result: It states the General Assembly’s desire to commend STIHL on its 50th anniversary in Virginia Beach and to have a copy of the resolution presented to STIHL.
Who is affected
- STIHL, Inc. and its employees (approximately 3,000 at the Virginia Beach facility).
- The local Virginia Beach economy and community, including educational and workforce development partners.
- Broader state branding and economic development narrative, highlighting Virginia’s manufacturing environment.
Procedural and timeline notes
- This is a ceremonial resolution with no regulatory or fiscal provisions.
- It serves as an official commendation from the Senate and the House of Delegates, recognizing corporate contributions and community involvement.
Overall impact
- Provides formal recognition and positive public exposure for STIHL, Inc. and its role in Virginia’s economy and workforce development.
- No policy changes, funding, or regulatory obligations arise from the bill; primarily a symbolic gesture of appreciation.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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