Requiring the department of management to conduct a study regarding the merger of the department of natural resources and the department of agriculture and land stewardship, and including effective date provisions

Where it is now

1. ✓
   Done: IntroducedJanuary 14, 2026
2. ✓
   Done: SubcommitteeFebruary 4, 2026
3. ✕
   Stopped: House committeeDied when the General Assembly ended
4. Next: Passes the House
5. Next: Senate committeeFunnel: by March 20, 2026
6. Next: Passes the Senate
7. Next: To the Governor
8. Next: Signed into law

Died when the session ended The General Assembly adjourned on October 2, 2026. Bills that didn’t pass both chambers died. What’s a funnel?

What’s in it

This bill requires the department of management (DOM) to conduct a study regarding the possible merger of the department of natural resources and the department of agriculture and land stewardship. DOM must consider the departments’ overlapping missions and programs, the impact of such merger, and the best methods to integrate the two departments. DOM must submit a report regarding its findings and recommendations to the governor and general assembly not later than December 31, 2026. The bill takes effect upon enactment.

From the explanation printed with the bill as introduced, written by the Legislative Services Agency. Amendments adopted later aren’t reflected. Full bill text

House subcommittee

Named February 4, 2026. On February 12, 2026 it recommended passage.

• Rep. Taylor R. Collins REmail
• Rep. Jeff Cooling DEmail
• Rep. Austin Harris REmail
• Rep. Dr. Megan L. Srinivas DEmail
• Rep. Derek Wulf REmail

Three legislators hear a bill first and recommend what the committee should do; it’s the best time to weigh in. How to take part