HB 1498: Virginia Interagency Council on Homelessness; established.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Virginia Interagency Council on Homelessness established; use of state funds for housing and homelessness services; report. Establishes the Virginia Interagency Council on Homelessness with the purpose of establishing a coordinated, statewide framework to prevent and end homelessness by aligning state and local efforts around evidence-based strategies. The bill directs the Council to (i) implement a state plan to end homelessness; (ii) align state policies, programs, and funding to effectuate the purpose of the Council; (iii) identify and recommend removal of statutory, regulatory, and administrative barriers to housing stability; and (iv) coordinate state, federal, and private funding to maximize impact and improve outcomes. The bill requires the Council to submit by October 1 of each year a report on its activities and recommendations to the Governor, General Assembly, and Department of Housing and Community Development. The bill additionally prohibits the use of state funds to establish, operate, or support any congregate living arrangement, shelter or similar facility, or program that functions in a punitive or coercive manner, as such term is defined in the bill, with respect to individuals experiencing homelessness.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. February 18, 2026Left in Committee Rules
2. February 2, 2026Subcommittee recommends laying on the table (5-Y 0-N)
3. February 2, 2026House subcommittee offered
4. January 30, 2026Assigned HRUL sub: Studies Subcommittee
5. January 23, 2026Referred to Committee on Rules
6. January 23, 2026Presented and ordered printed 26105267D