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HB 512

Virginia Farm and Forest Prosperity Plan; OSAF to develop and implement comprehensive Plan, report.

2026 Regular Session

Virginia requires its agriculture office to develop a comprehensive Farm and Forest Prosperity Plan, though implementation details and funding mechanisms remain undefined.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 800 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 512

Legislative bill overview

HB 512 directs Virginia's Office of Ag and Forestry (OSAF) to develop and implement a comprehensive "Farm and Forest Prosperity Plan" and report on its findings. The bill passed out of the Agriculture committee with unanimous support (13-0) in February 2026. It requires a coordinated strategy to advance agricultural and forestry interests across the state.

Why is this important

Agricultural and forestry sectors are economically significant to Virginia's rural communities and land use patterns. A comprehensive state plan could coordinate resources, identify barriers to growth, and establish priorities—but success depends entirely on implementation quality and adequate funding, which aren't specified in this bill description.

Potential points of contention

  • Vague mandate: The bill doesn't specify what the plan should contain, measurable outcomes, or timelines, leaving significant discretion to OSAF and potentially leading to a document with limited actionable value
  • Resource allocation: No mention of budget, staffing, or how OSAF will fund this initiative alongside existing duties, raising questions about practical feasibility
  • Stakeholder inclusivity: Unclear whether the plan-development process will meaningfully include small farmers, forestry workers, environmental groups, and other affected parties, or if it favors larger agricultural interests

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

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