2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26104509D

HOUSE BILL NO. 1299

Offered January 15, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 1-243.1, relating to rules of construction; use of "shall."

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Patrons—Delaney and Seibold

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Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 1-243.1 as follows:

§ 1-243.1. Shall.

"Shall" establishes a mandatory requirement and is not merely directory, unless the statute expressly provides otherwise.