Legislative Drafting

All bills and amendments introduced for consideration by members of the General Assembly are prepared and reviewed by policy analysts in the department.  These policy analysts, who generally have law degrees and receive extensive training on the technical aspects of statutory drafting, are available year-round to research, draft, and discuss with legislators proposed legislation.

In addition to bill and amendment drafting, analysts respond to requests from legislators for information and advice pertinent to legislation.  They also assist the General Assembly in its oversight of the Executive Branch by reviewing, on behalf of the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review, regulations proposed by Executive Branch agencies to ensure that they comply with statutory authority and legislative intent.  Finally, analysts participate in the staffing of regional delegations in the Senate and the House of Delegates as well as statutory, special joint, and special legislative committees and task forces.