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Bill

Bill

HB 1436

Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program authority; right of entry, performance bond.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nicole Cole

Expands Virginia stormwater program inspectors' right to enter private property and adjusts erosion control performance bond requirements for better environmental compliance enforcement.

Continued to next session in Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources (Voice Vote)
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Bill Summary · HB 1436

Legislative bill overview

HB 1436 modifies Virginia's Erosion and Stormwater Management Program by expanding the authority of program administrators to enter private property for inspection and compliance purposes, and adjusts requirements for performance bonds related to erosion control projects. The bill streamlines enforcement mechanisms for stormwater management compliance across the state.

Why is this important

Effective stormwater and erosion management protects water quality, reduces flooding risks, and prevents soil degradation—issues that directly affect public health, property values, and agricultural productivity. Clarifying enforcement authority helps ensure construction sites and development projects comply with environmental standards, though it also expands government access to private land.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. enforcement: Expanded right-of-entry powers may concern property owners who view it as government overreach, even with reasonable inspection purposes
  • Performance bond modifications: Changes to bonding requirements could affect development costs and timelines, creating friction between developers and environmental advocates
  • Consistency across localities: Virginia's program involves multiple jurisdictions, raising questions about uniform implementation standards and potential inconsistent enforcement

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

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