Virginia Governor EO 8: Chief of Staff Authority

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has issued Executive Order 8, effective January 17, 2026, which supersedes Executive Order No. 14 (2022). This new order formally delegates significant administrative powers to the Governor's Chief of Staff, including directing the state government planning and budget process and the state government personnel system. However, the Governor explicitly retains ultimate authority and responsibility, reserving key decisions such as budget submission to the General Assembly, final review of expenditures and revenues, amendment of position levels, authorization of deficits, determination of employee compensation plans, and final action on appeals from appointing authorities.

This executive order clarifies the operational structure within the Governor's office and establishes the Chief of Staff as a key deputy in managing state government functions. While the delegation is broad, the retained powers by the Governor ensure direct oversight on critical financial and personnel matters. State agencies and personnel within the Virginia government should familiarize themselves with the delineated responsibilities to understand the Chief of Staff's role in administrative processes. No specific compliance deadline is mentioned, as the order takes effect upon signing and is an internal administrative delegation.