How the Senate Operates

Legislative Sessions

Regular Sessions: By order of the Constitution of Virginia, the legislature convenes annually on the second Wednesday in January.  In even-numbered years, the legislature convenes for 60 calendar days.  In odd-numbered years, the legislature convenes for 30 days with an option to extend the session for a maximum of 30 days.  The legislature typically meets for 46 calendar days in odd-numbered years.

Procedural Resolution: At the beginning of each session, the General Assembly adopts a joint resolution to create a schedule that establishes various procedural items, including but not limited to: dates for joint assemblies, deadlines for introducing legislation, and deadlines for consideration of legislation by each chamber and its respective committees.

Rules of the Senate: In addition to the joint procedural resolution, the Senate also adopts policies for proceeding with business that it are unique to the Senate.  This includes, but is not limited to: Senate committee composition and procedures, order of business for Senate floor sessions, and rules for debate.

How A Bill Becomes A Law in Virginia