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The Virginia House has passed the state budget along with Governor Abigail Spanberger's amendments, averting a government shutdown just before the June 30, 2026 deadline. Now it heads to the Senate for final approval.

Key changes include clarifications on Medicaid, personal care rates, water supply planning, and data center cooling. But the big stories involve gun rights and a new tax on data centers amid deep Democrat infighting.

Spanberger's amendment delays statewide public carry restrictions on "assault firearms" (defined as centerfire rifles, pistols, and shotguns with 15+ round magazines) until July 1, 2027. Previously set for this year, the measure would ban carrying such firearms in public streets, parks, and rights-of-way across Virginia — expanding from select cities and counties like Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and others.

Another amendment tweaks Spanberger's facial coverings bill, which targets federal ICE operations while allowing state and local undercover law enforcement to continue using masks. Critics call it a challenge to federal authority reminiscent of states' rights disputes.

On data centers, Senate Democrats led by Louise Lucas pushed hard against tax breaks, but the House prevailed with a new electricity tax expected to raise $600 million annually — far short of the nearly $2 billion in yearly incentives going to the industry. Environmental groups and some Republicans are uniting against unchecked expansion.

Uriah Kiser breaks down the budget drama, party fractures, and what it means for Virginia gun owners, taxpayers, and communities facing rapid development.

What do you think about the gun carry delay and data center compromise? Drop your thoughts below.

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