Virginia continues to experience economic growth and political developments as the state moves further into 2025. According to a recent forecast from the University of Virginia's Weldon Cooper Center, the state's GDP is projected to increase by 2.4% this year, outpacing national growth[17]. However, employment growth is expected to slow to 0.7%, down from 1.7% in 2024.
In Richmond, the General Assembly recently passed its midway point known as "Crossover." Over 2,000 bills were initially introduced, with many now advancing to the opposite chamber for consideration[16]. Notable legislation includes bills addressing artificial intelligence, with measures aimed at criminalizing the use of synthetic media for fraud and establishing property rights for digital replications[16].
The upcoming gubernatorial race is heating up, with former U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger and Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears emerging as frontrunners for their respective party nominations[7]. Either candidate would make history as Virginia's first female governor.
In business news, Virginia was ranked the top state for franchise business growth in 2025, with projections of 1,447 new local franchise businesses and over 13,000 new jobs in the sector[3]. The state's unemployment rate is expected to remain below the national average at 3.4%[17].
Weather-wise, Virginia experienced a significant winter storm in early February, prompting Governor Glenn Youngkin to declare a state of emergency[18]. The National Weather Service had forecast accumulating snow, freezing rain, and ice across parts of the state.
On the environmental front, lawmakers are considering three key opportunities to build flood resilience, as detailed in Virginia's 2025 Common Agenda[9]. These initiatives aim to safeguard wetlands, ensure long-term flood resilience, and address climate change impacts.
Looking ahead, Virginia's Severe Weather Awareness Week is scheduled for March 10-14, with a statewide tornado drill planned for March 11[13]. Additionally, the state continues to prepare for potential impacts from federal workforce changes and international trade developments, which could affect Virginia's economy in the coming months[12].
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
