VIRGINIA SENATE AIMS FOR STATUS QUO

Virginia’s House Bill 1435, passed 75-25 by the House, was overturned by the Senate in order to maintain existing local regulations until July 2007. Delaying action will give legislators time to conduct a study and determine what is best for the state. The Senate’s statement read: "No locality may adopt any requirements for special exceptions or special use permits relating to licensed farm wineries that would be more restrictive than its requirements in effect as of Jan. 1, 2006 and shall remain in effect until July 1, 2007,” according to timescommunity.com. Local officials dislike the loss of regulatory power in the original bill but wineries welcome the opportunity to host wine promoting events.