Governor Glenn Youngkin Emphasizes Transparency and Business-Friendly Reforms with Release of Third Annual Unified Regulatory Plan

Governor Glenn Youngkin has unveiled the third annual Unified Regulatory Plan (URP), outlining anticipated regulatory changes for the Commonwealth of Virginia in the fiscal year 2025. The plan reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to streamline and modernize regulations, making it easier for businesses to operate in Virginia.

“Our Office of Regulatory Management is committed to transforming and modernizing burdensome regulations, making it easier for businesses to thrive in the Commonwealth,” said Governor Youngkin. “By enhancing transparency, we are ensuring that all Virginians have access to state regulations and guidance documents. A simplified and understandable list of all regulations will enable Virginians, companies, and interested groups to better participate in the regulatory process. This will lead to additional opportunities that will allow the Commonwealth to compete to win and remain as America’s Top State for Business.”

The URP details over 450 regulatory actions expected to take place between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. These actions include changes mandated by federal law and significant deregulatory efforts driven by Executive Order 19. Issued in June 2022, Executive Order 19 has led to substantial modernization across 66 state executive branch agencies. These agencies have eliminated more than 7,100 regulatory restrictions and over 15,000 pages of guidance documents.

“Virginia state agencies have found innovative and efficient ways to update their regulations without eliminating any necessary safety guidelines,” said Reeve Bull, Director of the Office of Regulatory Management. “They are saving Virginia taxpayers more than $300 million annually and improving the quality of life for those working, visiting, and residing within the Commonwealth.”

One key aspect of this regulatory overhaul is the enhanced transparency brought by making all state regulations and guidance documents publicly accessible on the Virginia Regulatory Town Hall website. This move ensures that all stakeholders can easily access and understand the regulatory landscape, fostering better engagement and participation in the regulatory process.

The reforms detailed in this year’s URP are part of a broader effort to maintain Virginia’s status as a top business destination. The state aims to create a more conducive environment for business growth and innovation by reducing regulatory burdens and making the process more transparent.

Governor Youngkin’s administration is confident that these efforts will continue positioning Virginia as a leader in business-friendly practices. The projected regulatory changes are designed to support economic growth while ensuring necessary safety and compliance measures remain intact.

Additional information about the Office of Regulatory Management, Executive Order 19, and the Unified Regulatory Plan is available at www.orm.virginia.gov.