Del. Delores Oates Champions Transparency and Fairness in Early 2026 Legislative Push

As the 2026 General Assembly session kicks off, Delegate Delores Oates of District 31 is making waves with a legislative agenda focused on everyday affordability and government accountability. In sharp contrast to what she describes as a partisan rush by Democrats to reshape Virginia’s political map, Oates is spotlighting issues she says matter most to the average Virginian—health care transparency, fairer vehicle fees, and tax relief.

“We all heard the same campaign promises: focus on affordability, the kitchen table issues,” Oates said in a message to constituents this week. “But if the first week of session is any clue, those promises from the left have gone out the window.”

Oates claims Democratic lawmakers are pushing constitutional amendments to alter congressional district boundaries, potentially cementing a lasting Democratic majority in Washington. She warned that a proposed spring referendum could lead to “a permanent 10-1 congressional Democrat majority,” which she argues would silence the voices of nearly half of Virginians.

In response, Oates is drawing attention to her legislative efforts, which aim to return financial control to families and individuals.

Hospital Billing Transparency Under HB1209

One of Oates’ headline bills, HB1209, would require Virginia hospitals to provide itemized billing statements to patients who receive non-emergency medical procedures, tests, or services. According to the bill’s language, these statements must break down the cost of each service, include medical codes, and explain how to dispute any charges. Hospitals would also be required to inform patients of their rights under both federal and state balance billing laws.

“People deserve to know exactly what they’re paying for at the hospital, and they need to know what to do when something looks wrong,” Oates said.

Currently, some hospitals in Virginia offer charge estimates, but the level of transparency varies widely. Advocates say HB1209 could help curb surprise billing and give consumers more power in navigating the complex health care system.

Protecting Drivers from Extra Fees with HB1205

Another key measure, HB1205, targets what Oates sees as unfair treatment of drivers with fuel-efficient vehicles. The bill removes the highway use fee currently applied to fuel-efficient vehicles, while maintaining fees for electric and alternative fuel cars. The logic behind the highway use fee is to ensure that drivers of low-fuel or no-fuel vehicles contribute to road maintenance funds typically supported by gasoline taxes. However, Oates argues the current setup penalizes people for choosing fuel-efficient options.

“You shouldn’t be punished for driving the car you want or need,” she said.

The bill also introduces changes to how the state handles vehicle property tax relief. Under current law, the Commonwealth pays localities nearly $950 million annually to help reduce car taxes for residents. HB1205 proposes a more targeted approach—phasing out car tax relief for households making over $200,000 and redistributing those funds on a sliding scale to provide more relief for lower- and middle-income families.

Military families leasing cars would remain fully protected under the current system.

Standard Deduction and Grocery Tax Relief

Oates is also backing efforts to extend Virginia’s current standard income tax deduction—set to expire this year—and cosponsoring legislation to eliminate the remaining 1% local sales tax on groceries and hygiene products. She says such measures reflect her broader mission to reduce everyday costs for Virginians struggling with inflation, utility bills, and rising healthcare costs.

“Our focus must be on Virginians. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness shouldn’t be drowned out by grocery lists and medical bills,” she said.

With a full list of sponsored bills posted on the General Assembly’s Legislative Information System, Oates is urging constituents to stay informed and engaged, especially as tensions rise over proposed constitutional changes.

Looking Ahead

While debate over redistricting is expected to remain contentious, Oates is doubling down on her promise to focus on issues that cut across party lines. “Our politics may differ,” she wrote, “but our focus must be the same: Virginians.”

Both HB1209 and HB1205 have been introduced and are awaiting referral to committees. The coming weeks will reveal whether Oates’ proposals gain traction in a divided legislature—but for now, her message is clear: affordability and accountability are nonpartisan values worth fighting for.