TALKING RICHMOND: Oriented, Ready to Serve

Del. Nicole Cole is getting her bearings and getting to work in Richmond. A look at the bills she is promoting.

By Del. Nicole Cole
REPRESENTING HD-66

As I officially begin my first legislative session, I do so with deep gratitude, a strong sense of purpose, and a genuine commitment to serving the residents of Virginia’s 66th District. This opening week was about laying the groundwork.

We focused on getting our office up and running, preparing for the responsibilities ahead, and learning how the legislative process truly works day to day. From organizing our workspace and setting up internal workflows to reviewing committee schedules and responding to constituent communications, my team and I worked to build an operation that is accessible, organized, and ready to serve. So far it has been humbling, exciting, and inspiring to step into this role and represent House District 66 as a legislator.

Wednesday marked a meaningful milestone as I was officially sworn in and took my seat in the House chamber for the first time. I was initially appointed to the Committee on Privileges and Elections, an honor that allowed me to immediately participate in the legislative process. That same day, I observed floor proceedings and learned how debate and voting operate on the House floor. I also cast my first votes on several measures, including HJ1, which addresses reproductive freedom; HJ2, focused on restoring voter rights; HJ9, supporting marriage equality; and HJ6007, a procedural resolution guiding legislative operations. Taking part in these early decisions reinforced the responsibility of this role and the importance of thoughtful, informed leadership on behalf of our community.

Due to scheduling conflicts with other committee responsibilities, I later transitioned from Privileges and Elections to my final committee assignments in Finance, Counties, Cities and Towns, and Health and Human Services. These committees allow me to engage directly in issues that affect local governments, economic stability, healthcare access, and overall community wellbeing. As committee work continues to ramp up, I have begun reviewing legislation and supporting research efforts. I am also tracking bills and preparing briefings to ensure I am fully informed and ready to advocate effectively.

Demonstrating a proactive start to the session, I have initially filed 13 bills, with five more to come. This legislative package focuses on strengthening schools and expanding housing access. It also prioritizes protecting consumers and ratepayers, supporting workers and small businesses, improving government efficiency, and honoring community leaders. Highlights include supporting stronger school funding and ensuring local education budgets meet student needs HB412. Strengthening public utility oversight and protecting ratepayers from excessive increases are addressed through HB420, HB421, and HB422. Improving educational leadership standards and accountability within school systems is the focus of HB1165 and HB1168. Supporting small farms and agricultural development across the Commonwealth is addressed in HB1169. Honoring the life and legacy of Anthony L. Bennett, Sr., a respected member of the Spotsylvania and Fredericksburg community whose life reflected service, dedication, and strong family values, is recognized through HJ55. Residents can follow the progress of these bills at lis.virginia.gov.

Saturday offered meaningful moments of reflection and connection. The day began with the Annual Prayer Breakfast. It continued with the Governor’s official swearing in ceremony and concluded with the Inaugural Ball. These moments created opportunities to connect with colleagues and leaders from across the Commonwealth. They also allowed me to begin building relationships that will support collaboration throughout the session.

I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to serve and for the trust placed in me by the people of the 66th District. I look forward to continuing this work with humility and energy. I remain deeply committed to listening, learning, and delivering results for our community.

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