Since 2018 the AIA Virginia Political Action Committee (PAC) has been working hard to educate firms and members about the role the PAC plays in establishing relationships with state legislators. As a result of increased investments from members and firm leaders, along with the Committee’s concerted efforts, the PAC has expanded its capacity to forge strategic partnerships and proactively support important legislation.

What is the AIA VA PAC?
The AIA Virginia Political Action Committee (PAC) is the primary tool used to build and strengthen relationships with legislators in the Virginia General Assembly and candidates seeking state office. By supporting policymakers who understand and value the role of architects, the PAC ensures that the voice of the profession is represented where key decisions are made.

This is a two-way relationship: legislators rely on architects as trusted subject matter experts on issues affecting the built environment—such as design, construction, resiliency, and sustainability—while architects depend on their partnership to advance legislation that supports and protects the practice of architecture in the Commonwealth. Through the PAC, the profession maintains a direct connection to the policymakers shaping the future of Virginia’s built environment.

Recent Wins
In 2025, AIA Virginia proposed their first ever piece of legislation, HB 2154 and SB 1310, to create an alternative path to architectural licensure. The legislation was approved by the General Assembly and then approved by the Governor. From there, the APELSCIDLA Board developed and approved a set of regulations to guide the newly established work and education experience requirements. This new alternative path is expected to be fully established and available to those pursuing licensure in May 2026.

Another role of the PAC is to elect and appoint AIA Virginia members to the Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects (APELSCIDLA). As of September 2025, members of AIA Virginia now occupy all three of the appointed architecture seats on the APELSCIDLA Board. Read more about this here.

Additionally, AIA Virginia has partnered with the American Council of Engineering Companies of Virginia (ACEC) to work with the Virginia Department of General Services (DGS) to update and clarify the standards that govern the procurement and execution of Architecture and Engineering (A/E) services in the Commonwealth. This collaboration has resulted in key updates to the CO-3a Terms and Conditions of the A/E Contract, directly addressing concerns from the A/E community.

Funding and the AIA Virginia PAC
A strong PAC is critical to AIA Virginia’s advocacy efforts and is completely funded by donations from members. As a reminder, membership dues will never be used to support a political candidate. The AIA Virginia PAC welcomes your support and investment in its mission to advocate for architects across Virginia. Donate today!