Media
Read below important news about preemption in Virginia.
Opinion Editorial
When the federal government can strip Washington D.C. of its local authority — and when think tanks like the Heritage Foundation openly call for states to take over “blue” cities — we know local democracy is under attack.
Virginia Preemption News
January 9th, 2025
Proposed Solar Bill Would Reduce Local Control (Farmville Herald)
Reports on legislation that would limit local governments’ authority over renewable energy project siting — a clear example of state preemption.
January 21st, 2025
Housing Proposals Spark Clash Over State and Local Roles in Virginia (Virginia Mercury)
Covers 2025 housing legislation that triggered debate over who should lead on housing policy: the state or local governments.
May 5th, 2025
Why Virginia Is a Dillon Rule State (VPM News)
Explains how Dillon’s Rule operates in Virginia with real-world examples of blocked local initiatives.
October 10th, 2025
Fairfax Leaders Pledge to Fight Bills That Dilute Local Power (FFXNow)
Fairfax County officials oppose state efforts to override local authority on housing and land use — highlighting tensions around local control.
November 19th, 2025
Virginia Right-to-Work & Labor Policy Debates (Axios)
In December 2025, VPM News reported on Virginia Democrats rolling out a progressive agenda that includes raising the state minimum wage and mandating paid sick leave — key labor issues that intersect with questions about who gets to make these decisions (state vs. local), especially given past vetoes.
Richmond Council asks state for law allowing city to prevent ‘rent gouging’ (The Richmonder)
With the General Assembly gearing up to reconvene this January, the Richmond City Council is asking for legislation that would let local governments institute anti-rent gouging rules.