A bunch of new laws take effect in Virginia starting July 1st! Some highlights are below and you can get more HERE!
School cellphone restrictions
Public schools across Virginia will be required to enforce stricter cellphone restrictions during the school day under SB 108. The law requires school divisions to prohibit student cellphone and smart-device use from the beginning of the school day until dismissal, with exceptions for medical or educational needs.
Current law already required some limits on student phone use, but the new legislation expands those restrictions statewide. School officials and supporters argue the goal is to reduce classroom distractions and improve student focus and behavior.
The law takes effect July 1 ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
Speed-limiting devices for reckless drivers
Virginia judges will have new authority to require certain reckless drivers to install speed-limiting technology in their vehicles under HB 2096, which passed last year but had a delayed effective date of July 1, 2026. The law creates Virginia’s Intelligent Speed Assistance Program and targets repeat speeding offenders and drivers caught traveling more than 100 mph.
Participants must install systems capable of limiting vehicle speeds and may avoid license suspension by enrolling in the program. The legislation also allows some drivers to voluntarily enter the program before trial.
Anyone who tampers with or attempts to bypass the system can face a Class 1 misdemeanor charge. Lawmakers said the measure is aimed at reducing deadly crashes linked to excessive speeding.
Styrofoam container ban expands
Virginia’s ban on expanded polystyrene, commonly known as styrofoam, food containers will fully apply statewide beginning July 1 after a phased roll-out over the past several years.
Under the law, restaurants, convenience stores and other food vendors can no longer serve prepared food in single-use foam containers.
Chain restaurants with 20 or more Virginia locations were required to comply beginning in July 2025, while all remaining food vendors must now comply.
Localities may grant temporary hardship exemptions to businesses facing economic challenges. Violators can face civil penalties of up to $50 per day.