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Bill

SB 310

State Corporation Commission; time frame for completion of certain proceedings.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Laura Jane Cohen and 1 co-sponsor

SB 310 sets specific completion deadlines for Virginia's State Corporation Commission review of electric transmission line projects to accelerate infrastructure permitting.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 149 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · SB 310

Legislative bill overview

SB 310 establishes or modifies the timeline for the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) to complete its review and approval process for certain electric transmission line projects. The bill appears to set specific deadlines or procedural requirements for how quickly the SCC must process these applications.

Why is this important

Transmission line projects are critical infrastructure that can take years to permit and construct, affecting electric grid reliability, renewable energy integration, and utility investment timelines. Establishing clear completion timeframes can reduce regulatory uncertainty for utilities and potentially expedite infrastructure development, though it may also compress the review period for public input and environmental considerations.

Potential points of contention

  • Balancing speed vs. thoroughness: Setting aggressive timelines could pressure regulators to conduct less rigorous reviews of complex engineering, environmental, and public interest considerations
  • Public participation concerns: Compressed review periods may limit opportunities for affected communities and environmental groups to meaningfully participate in proceedings
  • Utility development pressure: The timeline may favor transmission project approval and benefit utilities economically while potentially limiting alternative solutions or distributed energy alternatives

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

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