New Taxes & Cost Increases – 2026 Impact on Virginians

🚨 MAJOR GOP WIN: Most Democrat Tax Hike Bills Stalled or Continued to 2027 – But Missed Chance on Car Tax Relief!

As of February 19, 2026 (evening): Democrats introduced over 50 tax-increase proposals early in the session (guns/ammo, deliveries, services like dry cleaning/grooming/repairs, millionaire surtaxes, investment income taxes, etc.). Thanks to strong Republican opposition, the vast majority have been **continued to 2027**, tabled, or stalled after crossover (Feb 17). No major new taxes or broad hikes have passed both chambers yet.

However, GOP efforts to **repeal or significantly relieve the car tax** (local personal property tax on vehicles) were blocked by Democrat majorities. Bills to phase out or cap the tax died in committee — a missed opportunity for real relief to Fauquier families who pay hundreds annually on cars, trucks, and farm vehicles. Instead, only a weak “study” resolution advanced in the House.

Gov. Spanberger has emphasized affordability but has not pushed for car tax relief or endorsed the major hikes. Republicans continue to argue: Use the surplus for cuts and relief — not new taxes or government expansion.

Why This Matters to Fauquier County & Virginia Families

Fauquier residents feel the pinch: Vehicle taxes hit hard in rural areas where cars/trucks are essential for work, farming, commuting, and family life. Stalled Democrat hikes protect wallets for now, but failed car tax repeal means continued burdens. Future sessions could revive taxes — we must stay vigilant.

Key Tax Proposals & Status (Post-Crossover Highlights)

Bill / Effort Description Status (as of Feb 19)
HB 979 / HB 1074 “Millionaire tax” proposals: New high brackets (8–10% over $600K–$1M); some deductions/credits. Continued to 2027 — stalled!
HB 900 / HB 978 Broad sales tax expansion to services (repairs, grooming, fitness, digital goods); delivery fees; regional add-ons. Most continued or stalled — no passage.
HB 378 New 3.8% net investment income tax on high earners starting 2027. Stalled/continued.
Various targeted hikes Gun/ammo tax (Senate passed, House postponed); delivery/retail fees; new service/digital taxes. Mixed; many stalled or continued.
GOP Wins – Blocking Hikes Most broad/new tax proposals blocked or delayed — no major increases enacted yet! Strong Republican committee work and opposition.
Car Tax Relief Efforts HB 566 / SB 799: Phase out, cap, or reduce local vehicle personal property tax using surplus funds. Failed in committees — Democrats blocked direct relief. Study resolution (HJ 34) passed House (68-25 bipartisan) but Senate version stalled — delays action to 2027+.

What’s Next?

  • Session ends March 14 — watch budget negotiations for any sneaky tax revivals or add-ons.
  • Many continued bills return in 2027 — prepare now!
  • Contact your Delegate/Senator: Demand no new taxes AND push for car tax repeal/relief using the surplus. Find yours at lis.virginia.gov.
  • Join taxpayer allies (NFIB, Americans for Tax Reform, local chambers) to fight back.

Defend Fauquier Wallets from Higher Taxes & Demand Car Tax Relief!
Share this page – call your lawmakers today: No new taxes, yes to real relief! 🇺🇸💰 #NoNewTaxes #RepealTheCarTax #VirginiaGOP

Sources & Further Reading

Fauquier County Republican Committee | Fighting for Lower Taxes & Economic Freedom
Last Updated: February 19, 2026 | @CommsGop52463