Manassas Park reviews broad set of FY26 state and federal legislative priorities

Councilors reviewed a staff draft of proposed FY26 legislative priorities on Oct. 21, providing direction to refine an "elevator summary" and a bill list for senators, delegates and external partners.

Staff said the list compiles input gathered during earlier meetings and a legislative brunch. The draft covers a wide range of items: child nutrition (SNAP, school breakfast and lunch), local option for a 1% sales tax for school CIPs (Senate Bill 1307), improved retirement and hazard pay treatment for 911 dispatchers, increases to law‑enforcement retirement multipliers, bills allowing VRS retirees to return to work without restrictions, constitutional amendments (removal of a same‑sex marriage provision and an amendment establishing reproductive freedom), and a joint resolution to restore voting rights to formerly incarcerated adults without application.

Councilors expressed broad agreement on many items but were split on others. Several members supported SNAP and school meal priorities. The proposed local 1% school CIP sales tax drew opposition from members who cited its potential burden on local restaurants and businesses; staff noted the tax would only enable localities to impose the tax and that a referendum would be required before local adoption. On housing and statewide housing targets, councilors said they opposed the bill as currently written and asked staff to pursue friendly amendments or work with bill authors to protect small‑city circumstances.

Members directed staff to produce a short one‑page cover document for legislators with a companion bill list and to circulate a revised package for final adoption at a future meeting. Staff indicated the final package will be shared with the city's legislative representative and regional municipal groups.