Sen. French files proposal to disband Virginia Apple Board and update related state laws

State Sen. Timmy F. French has put forward a bill that would abolish the Virginia Apple Board and revise state statutes accordingly, according to the Virginia State Senate.

The bill, known as SB390, was filed on Jan. 14, 2026, for consideration during the 2026 regular session. It is formally described as: “Apple Board; repealing Board and Apple Fund effective July 1, 2028, delayed effective date, report.”

Below is an overview that draws on the bill text, with interpretations provided for clarity.

Essentially, the measure eliminates the Virginia Apple Board and its related statutes as of July 1, 2028, while modifying references in state law, such as Freedom of Information Act provisions and designations of protected agricultural funds. Appointments to the Board end after July 1, 2026; however, the Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services may fill unexpired terms. Collection of the excise tax on apples grown in Virginia would stop after July 1, 2026. On July 1, 2028, any money left in the Apple Fund moves to the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development Fund, and the Board must file a final financial report by June 30, 2028.

The legislation is sponsored solely by Republican Sen. Timmy F. French of the 1st District.

French has offered another two bills since this session began.

French, a Republican, was elected in 2024 to represent Virginia’s 1st Senate district, succeeding T. Monty Mason.

Virginia’s legislative process starts when a measure is introduced in the Senate or House of Delegates before it is reviewed in committee, may be amended, and then debated and voted on by the full chamber. If approved by both legislative bodies, the proposal proceeds to the governor, who can sign, veto or let a bill become law without signature. Each January, the General Assembly launches its regular annual session and receives hundreds of legislative proposals, with only some advancing to become state law.