How
current is the information on this site?
Information is updated daily or as changes take place.
Why is Virginia called a commonwealth?
While Virginia may generally be referred to as a state, it is officially designated
as a "Commonwealth." The Virginia Declaration of Rights, adopted on
June 12, 1776, set forth the philosophy that government was created to be the
servant of the people. Virginia's founders viewed government as a contract between
free and independent people and sought to emphasize that the government was based
upon the sovereignty of the people united for the common good, or common wealth.
In essence, the power to govern was derived from the consent of the people. Virginia's
first Constitution, adopted on June 29, 1776, affirmed these principles.
As citizens of the Commonwealth,
Virginians are encouraged to actively participate in government.
Civic virtue and socially responsible conduct by all citizens
are essential to the continued existence of the Commonwealth.
This extraordinary form of government depends upon the people's
consent and participation.
In addition to Virginia, the states
of Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania enjoy commonwealth
status.
What are the state symbols/emblems?
Virginia has adopted various state symbols/emblems throughout
the years. You may learn more in the Capitol
Classroom section.
How can I get on a mailing list for interim studies?
Separate mailing lists are maintained by both the House and
Senate. For details about studies and how to add your name
to the mailing lists, visit the Studies
and Commissions add/remove list page.
Are meeting rooms available in the State Capitol complex
for tour groups to use?
No meeting rooms are available in the State Capitol or General
Assembly Building for tour groups to use.
What is the proper protocol for interacting with government
officials?
Please consult the Protocol Guide.
What is the official homepage address of the Commonwealth of Virginia?
The official address is http://www.virginia.gov.
When did the Virginia General Assembly first meet?
The Virginia General Assembly held its first meeting in Jamestown
in July 1619 and has been meeting continuously ever since.
More details on the history of the General Assembly can be
found in the About
Our Capitol section of Capitol Tours.
How can I find out more about the budget process in Virginia?
Information on the State
Budget may be found on the General Assembly website. Information
on the budget process may be found by visiting the Department
of Planning & Budget's budget process website.
What is the political composition
of the Virginia General Assembly?
For general information on the political composition of the
General Assembly, please visit the Elected
Officials section.
Is the information contained
on this site legally binding?
The purpose of the Virginia General Assembly Web Site is to
provide a starting point for access to and research and use
of legislative information by the citizens of Virginia and
other persons interested in law, public policy, and the legislative
process. The information placed on this site is an invaluable
resource in researching law and the process of enacting legislation.
Information placed on this web
site is not intended to replace any official source. Please
be aware that some information placed on this web site is
provisional. Although every attempt is made to ensure that
the information placed on this web site is accurate and timely,
the information is presented "as is" and without
warranties, either express or implied, including warranties
regarding the content of the legislative information. Do
not rely solely on information which is placed on the web
site that might affect your legal rights. Please refer to
the printed version of the appropriate official publication
or contact legal counsel of your choice.
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