Story perspectives

Virginia's Special Session Ends Amid Budget and Redistricting Debates

1/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Virginia lawmakers concluded a 612-day special session on January 15, 2026, amid ongoing budget disputes.
Governor Glenn Youngkin initiated the session to reconcile spending plans.
Democrats advanced a constitutional amendment allowing mid-decade redistricting that would be decided by a public vote.
House Speaker Don Scott framed the amendment as a response to perceived election rigging.
The session addressed funding for military education and gambling regulations.

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Story summary

Virginia lawmakers concluded a 612-day special session on January 15, 2026, amid ongoing budget disputes.
Governor Glenn Youngkin initiated the session to reconcile spending plans.
Democrats advanced a constitutional amendment allowing mid-decade redistricting that would be decided by a public vote.
House Speaker Don Scott framed the amendment as a response to perceived election rigging.
The session addressed funding for military education and gambling regulations.