Governor Abigail Spanberger signed a package of bipartisan bills in Rocky Mount, Virginia, on Monday, June 1, 2026, aimed at expanding homeownership opportunities and lowering housing costs across the Commonwealth. The legislation seeks to address Virginia's significant housing shortage by increasing supply, protecting tenants from hidden fees, and streamlining access to affordable housing options.
The new laws include a two-year pilot program to encourage housing development and measures to cut red tape restricting the supply of manufactured homes. Governor Spanberger emphasized the importance of these changes, stating, "Virginia is taking concrete steps to tackle our housing crisis from several different angles — expanding supply, protecting tenants, increasing transparency and making sure manufactured housing has the same standing under Virginia law as any other home." She also toured the Cavco manufactured homes facility, highlighting the role of such housing in meeting demand.
Randy Grumbine, executive director of the Virginia Manufactured and Modular Housing Association, praised the bills, noting they would provide more families with the opportunity to purchase a home. Spanberger underscored the economic impact, explaining, "When workers can’t find available housing options near their jobs, businesses struggle to grow." She added that the housing affordability problem is "real, it’s urgent. And it’s one of the biggest threats to our overall economic competitiveness."
The Governor's actions align with her "Affordable Virginia Agenda," recognizing that "when housing supply is artificially constrained by zoning practices, everyone pays the price." The legislation also aims to support vulnerable populations, with Bobby Canipe of Fostering Champions noting that affordable housing remains a major challenge for young adults transitioning out of the foster care system.