Virginia Senate considers bill for state acquisition of Laurel Ridge Community College land

State Sen. Timmy F. French is sponsoring new legislation designed to bolster support for community college facilities and workforce training programs, according to the Virginia State Senate.

The proposal, filed as SB773 on Jan. 22, 2026, during the current regular session, is officially titled: “Community Colleges, powers, State Board for; acquisition and improvement of certain property.”

Below is a summary based on the bill’s text, with interpretive notes for clarity.

This measure would authorize the State Board for Community Colleges to acquire approximately 4.8 acres of land, along with an existing building and parking, adjacent to Laurel Ridge Community College from the Laurel Ridge Community College Educational Foundation. The transaction would be at a price below fair market value and partially donated. Funds for the purchase are limited to nongeneral sources such as auxiliary reserves and noncredit workforce program revenue. Once acquired, the site would become state-owned, rendering it eligible for capital outlay and maintenance funding, with a requirement to maintain student support services. The facility would be renovated, as funds allow, for instruction and workforce training in areas including health care, information technology and skilled trades.

Sen. Timmy F. French (Republican-1st District) is the sole sponsor of this legislation.

During this session, French has put forward an additional three bills.

French, a Republican elected to the Virginia State Senate in 2024, represents the 1st Senate district, having succeeded T. Monty Mason.

For context, the Virginia legislative process begins with a bill’s introduction in either the House of Delegates or the Senate. The bill is assigned to committee(s) for consideration and potential revision. If approved, it advances to floor votes in both chambers. Ultimately, a bill passed by both houses moves to the governor for signature, veto, or enactment without signature. Each year, the Virginia General Assembly convenes in regular session starting the second Monday of January, with lawmakers formally introducing hundreds of bills, a fraction of which become law.