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HB 169

Emerg. management; Secretary of Public Safety & Homeland Sec. shall convene work group to evaluate.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Askew

HB 169 creates a Virginia emergency management grant program and fund to enhance local disaster preparedness and response capabilities statewide.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0569)
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Bill Summary · HB 169

Legislative bill overview

HB 169 establishes a new grant program and dedicated fund in Virginia to support emergency management preparedness and capabilities across the state. The bill creates a mechanism for distributing resources to localities and organizations to enhance their disaster response and emergency preparedness infrastructure.

Why is this important

Emergency preparedness funding directly affects communities' ability to respond to natural disasters, public health emergencies, and other crises. Inadequate preparedness resources can result in delayed response times, preventable casualties, and increased recovery costs following disasters.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source unclear – The bill establishes a fund but the fiscal impact statement and bill language don't specify how the fund will be financed (general fund appropriation, fees, bonds, or dedicated revenue source)
  • Distribution mechanism – No details provided on how grant awards will be allocated among Virginia's 39 counties and 38 independent cities, which could create equity concerns
  • Administrative overhead – Creating a new grant program requires administrative staff and infrastructure, with unclear cost-benefit analysis relative to existing emergency management structures

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

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