RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia National Guard Association, Inc., unveiled its 2026 legislative priorities during its annual business and membership meeting on April 26, 2025, at the Founders Inn in Virginia Beach. The agenda focuses on enhancing support for service members through education, recruitment, and infrastructure initiatives.
The four key priorities include:
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Increasing funding for the Referral Enlistment Program (REP): Aimed at bolstering recruitment efforts by providing incentives for Virginians to refer potential enlistees. The current program is funded at $50,000 annually beginning in July of each year.
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Establishing the Museum of the Virginia National Guard: Proposed to be located at the historic S. Gardner Waller Depot in Richmond, this museum serves as an education, research, and training center, preserving the Virginia National Guard’s rich history.
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Expanding the Toll Relief Program: This initiative seeks to alleviate the financial burden on Soldiers and Airmen traveling throughout the Tidewater region by providing bridge and tunnel toll discounts or relief.
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Improving the State Tuition Assistance Program: The VNGA advocates for reforms to the existing program to better support Soldiers and Airmen pursuing higher education at Virginia colleges and universities.
“These priorities reflect our commitment to the welfare and development of our service members,” said Andrew Czaplicki, director of communications. “We aim to work closely with legislators to turn these initiatives into actionable policies.”
Over the coming months, the VNGA will conduct further research to solidify its positions on these priorities and identify legislative patrons for potential inclusion in the 2026 Virginia General Assembly session. The association encourages members and supporters to engage with their elected officials to advocate for these initiatives.
For more information on the VNGA’s legislative efforts and how to get involved, visit vnga.us/advocacy.