Virginia Government In Brief
An introduction to state and local government for high school students and adult constituents
Virginia Government In Brief
An introduction to state and local government for high school students and adult constituents
Since its adoption in 1776, the Constitution of Virginia has undergone many changes due to the economic, technological, political, and legal developments in the Commonwealth. The Constitution has continued to serve as the political base upon which Virginia’s state and local governments are built. The two major components of the Constitution are the provisions for all statewide elected officers, legislators, local governing body members, and local constitutional officers.
This resource serves as an introduction to the three branches of state government, in addition to local government and the election system in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Links are located in the main menu.
Virginia Government in Brief is designed to help you:
describe the Constitution of Virginia and our three branches of state government
identify your role in citizen participation
explain how the committee process works
list the steps in the order of business
recognize how a daily session calendar is organized
explain the legislative process in Virginia
feel included in our citizen legislature, connected to Virginia's civic story, and inspired by public service
share your views with elected officials
participate in civic duty
vote in federal, state, and local elections once you become eligible