Patrick County supervisors approve resolution directing no early voting before Virginia's 90-day constitutional period

The Patrick County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution at a special called meeting to direct the general registrar and the electoral board not to commence early voting on a proposed constitutional amendment prior to the expiration of the 90‑day waiting period in Article 12, Section 1 of the Virginia Constitution. Chair, speaking throughout the reading and discussion, said final passage of House Joint Resolution 4 occurred on 01/16/2026 and that the 90th day from that date is 04/16/2026. He added the resolution directs that no county-owned facilities or county resources be made available to conduct early voting for the referendum prior to 04/16/2026 unless a court of competent jurisdiction determines such early voting is constitutionally permissible.

"This resolution today is much more than about just trying to delay the start of early voting," the Chair said, arguing the board has "a duty to uphold the constitution of Virginia" and criticizing the General Assembly's handling of the measure. A board member who spoke in favor said, "Having such a monumental, event as changing, our lines that can affect our national elections should not be rushed through." After discussion the Chair moved to approve the resolution, a member seconded, and the board voted unanimously: Mister Marshall, Mister Kendrick, Mister Wood, and the Chair all voted "Aye." The Chair announced, "The resolution passes." The resolution also directs that it be transmitted immediately to the Virginia State Board of Elections and the Office of the Attorney General and authorizes Tim Anderson to represent the Patrick County Board of Supervisors in any court proceedings on the matter.