Why 3/5: The bill proactively maintains environmental standards for appliances, which is important for long-term energy and water conservation goals.
This bill ensures that Virginia consumers will continue to have access to energy- and water-efficient appliances, even if federal standards are rolled back. It requires manufacturers and sellers in the Commonwealth to meet minimum energy and water conservation standards for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and home appliances.
Update
Placed on Calendar
First reading
Read first time
Referred to committee
Referred to Committee on Labor and Commerce
Cleared committee
Reported from Labor and Commerce (15-Y 6-N)
Second reading
Read second time
Third reading
Read third time
Passed a chamber
Passed House (62-Y 35-N 0-A)
Enrolled
Enrolled
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed Senate and House (SB256ER)
This bill has passed its votes and is headed to the Governor's desk. You still have a say — the Governor's office reads messages before deciding whether to sign.
New to all this? See how a bill becomes law →
Summarized from the official bill text (“Appliance minimum energy and water conservation standards; requirement of manufacturers.”) · Read the actual bill →
Update
Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (SB256)
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 10, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
Line-item veto
Governor's recommendation received by Senate