WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJ 23

Make-A-Will Month; designating as August 2026 and in each succeeding year thereafter.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 12 co-sponsors

Virginia designates August annually as Make-A-Will Month to encourage citizens to create or update estate documents through awareness promotion.

Subcommittee recommends reporting (5-Y 0-N)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJ 23

Legislative bill overview

HJ 23 designates August of each year, beginning in 2026, as "Make-A-Will Month" in Virginia. This is a ceremonial resolution that encourages citizens to create or update their wills during this designated month through awareness and promotion efforts.

Why is this important

Estate planning remains underutilized, with surveys showing a majority of Americans lack current wills or proper estate documents. Designating a specific month can increase public awareness about the importance of will-writing and estate planning, potentially improving financial preparedness for families and reducing complications after death. This costs the state nothing but leverages government recognition to promote civic responsibility.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. substantive value: Critics may argue the state should instead fund actual legal aid services or will-drafting programs rather than simply designating a month
  • Inequitable access: While awareness is helpful, low-income Virginians often cannot afford estate planning services, so promotion without resources may feel hollow
  • Government overreach concerns: Some may view this as unnecessary state involvement in what is essentially a personal financial matter better left to private sector promotion

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

Sign in to ask a question.