Virginia HB61 - Government Contracting Discrimination (2026)
Virginia HB61 — Government Contracting Discrimination — Bill that bars White male-owned businesses from discretionary state contracts.
Summary
HB61 creates a racial and gender preference system for Virginia state government contracts under $100,000. Under this bill:
- For discretionary contracts under $100K, businesses owned by White men are barred from even being considered unless there is literally no competition
- State agencies may award contracts to women or minority-owned firms that are up to 5% more expensive than a bid from a White male-owned business
Key Details
- Bill Number: HB61
- Session: 2026 Virginia General Assembly
- Category: Government Procurement / Racial Preferences
Legislative Status
- Bill Number: HB61
- Official Title: Small SWaM Business Procurement Enhancement Program; established, report.
- Status (as of Feb 18, 2026): Passed House — ✅ Passed House (in Senate)
- Patron: Jeion A. Ward
- LIS Link: HB61 on Virginia LIS
- Notes: Passed House