Virginia’s General Assembly convened on January 8 for the start of its 30-day session; to keep readers informed on their local representatives’ efforts, we’ve reviewed some of their bills and votes. Virginia shares bills, votes, and schedules online through the Legislative Information System.
Virginia has 100 delegates who serve two-year terms. Between Jan. 8 and Jan. 30, 2,370 bills were introduced by delegates and senators. A total of 287 have failed the House of Delegates so far, and 306 have passed the House, many of which have moved into a committee for further review.
Cole
Delegate Joshua Cole (D) represents the 65th District, which includes the City of Fredericksburg and parts of Spotsylvania and Stafford. Cole won re-election in November 2024 and is a member of three committees: General Laws, Health and Human Services, and Privileges and Elections.
Cole did not cast any votes on Jan. 30. On previous days, he voted Yes on all floor votes. Cole was a Patron or Chief Patron of 131 bills. We explored a few:
HB1600 Budget Amendment
Cole has requested $25,000 from the General Fund to support Stafford County’s Rappahannock Education Farm.
HB1598 Individual income tax; first-time homebuyer tax credit.
This bill would create a one-time tax credit for first-time homebuyers. From 2025 to 2029, eligible homebuyers can receive a nonrefundable income tax credit of up to $10,000 for expenses related to buying their first home. The credit is based on the purchase price of the home. However, if the buyer sells the home within three years of purchasing it, they will have to repay the credit.
The bill passed two committees with 5-3 and 11-10 split votes and is currently waiting for review by the Commerce, Agriculture, and Natural Resources Committee.
