Virginia § 33.2-288 - Declaration of public purpose; Virginia Passenger Rail Authority

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 33.2-288 — Declaration of public purpose; Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 33.2-288. Declaration of public purpose; Virginia Passenger Rail Authority

A. The General Assembly finds and determines that (i) it is the policy of the Commonwealth to improve, identify, encourage, and promote new approaches to economic development throughout the Commonwealth; (ii) passenger rail travel and services are integral to the economic development and expansion of the Commonwealth's economy; and (iii) there exists in the Commonwealth a need to increase passenger rail capacity in the Commonwealth and improve passenger rail services.

B. In order to increase passenger rail capacity, improve passenger rail services, ameliorate current and future traffic congestion on Virginia highways, and promote the industrial and economic development of the Commonwealth, there is hereby created a body corporate and political subdivision of the Commonwealth to be known as the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority. The Authority is hereby constituted as a public instrumentality exercising public and essential governmental functions, and the exercise of powers conferred by this article shall be deemed to be the performance of an essential governmental function and matters of public necessity for which public moneys may be spent and private property acquired.

C. The purpose of the Authority shall be to promote, sustain, and expand the availability of passenger and commuter rail service in the Commonwealth and to increase ridership of such service by connecting population centers with passenger and commuter rail service and increasing availability of such service.

2020, cc. 1230, 1275.

Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 33.2-288

What does Code of Virginia § 33.2-288 cover?

Section 33.2-288 ("Declaration of public purpose; Virginia Passenger Rail Authority") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Virginia § 33.2-288?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 33.2-288" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.

How does Virginia § 33.2-288 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.