Dear Chairman Surovell and Members of the Committee,

The Legacy, Innovation & Virtual Estate Planning (LIVE) Coalition writes to express our strong support for House Bill 133, legislation that would authorize the use of electronic wills in the Commonwealth of Virginia. This important legislation, which has already been enacted in 16 jurisdictions, including Maryland, D.C., and New York, represents a thoughtful modernization of Virginia’s estate planning laws, reflecting both technological advances and the evolving needs of Virginia families.

HB 133 would expand access to estate planning by allowing individuals to execute valid wills electronically while maintaining appropriate safeguards to ensure authenticity, intent, and protection against fraud or undue influence. For many Virginians—particularly seniors, individuals with disabilities, military families, and residents in rural or underserved communities—traditional in-person execution requirements can pose significant barriers. Electronic wills offer a practical solution that increases access without sacrificing legal integrity.

The need for flexible, secure digital options has become increasingly clear in recent years. As more aspects of daily life, commerce, and government services move online, estate planning should not remain an exception. Electronic wills are already authorized in a growing number of states, and early experience demonstrates that these laws can be implemented responsibly with strong consumer protections. HB 133 builds on these best practices by establishing clear standards for execution, storage, and verification.

Importantly, HB 133 does not require Virginians to use electronic wills; rather, it provides an additional option for those who choose to use it. Traditional paper wills would remain fully valid and available. This measured approach respects individual choice while ensuring that Virginia’s legal framework keeps pace with modern realities.

We believe HB 133 will enhance legal certainty, reduce unnecessary delays, and better serve Virginians who wish to plan responsibly for their families and loved ones. By adopting this legislation, the General Assembly can promote access, innovation, and fairness in estate planning while maintaining the high standards Virginians expect from their legal system.

For these reasons, the undersigned organizations respectfully urge you to support HB 133 and help modernize Virginia law to reflect the needs of today’s Commonwealth.

Thank you for your consideration and for your continued commitment to policies that serve Virginia families.