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Subcommittee OKs community‑college land purchase for Laurel Ridge, sends bill to appropriations

House Education, Higher Education Subcommittee · February 9, 2026

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Summary

The panel reported HB 13‑78, permitting the State Board for Community Colleges to buy just under 5 acres from Laurel Ridge’s foundation below fair market value using non‑general funds to expand career and technical education; the motion passed 7–0.

Delegate Wiley told the committee HB 13‑78 would allow the State Board for Community Colleges to acquire just under five acres from Laurel Ridge Community College’s foundation at below fair market value as a partial gift to the Commonwealth. Wiley said no general‑fund dollars or capital outlay are required and the purchase would support expansion of career and technical education programs.

Representatives from the Virginia Community College System and Laurel Ridge, including Corey Thompson, vice president of finance and operations, testified in support and described the purchase as a long‑term benefit for students and employers. The subcommittee voted 7–0 to report HB 13‑78 and refer it to Appropriations.