Why 4/5: It significantly alters the scope of practice for physician assistants, potentially impacting healthcare access and delivery models.
This legislation will allow physician assistants with at least three years of clinical experience to practice without a physician practice agreement, potentially expanding access to healthcare services for Virginians. The change is contingent on the Board of Medicine adopting new regulations to implement the independent practice framework.
Update
Passed by for the day Block Vote (Voice Vote)
Third reading
Read third time
Amendment adopted
Education and Health Amendment agreed to
Update
Engrossed by Senate as amended
Passed a chamber
Passed Senate with amendment (38-Y 2-N 0-A)
Amendment adopted
Senate amendment agreed to by House (99-Y 0-N 0-A)
Enrolled
Enrolled
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed House and Senate (HB746ER)
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
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.
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Summarized from the official bill text (“Physician assistants; authorization to practice without a practice agreement.”) · Read the actual bill →
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Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB746)
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 31, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
Signed into law
Approved by Governor-Chapter 418 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0418)