Model General Assembly

Model General Assembly (MGA) is a YMCA-sponsored program designed to introduce high school students to the legislative process of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Students in grades 9-12 may participate (with limited roles for 9th graders).

Each year, approximately 500 students from across Virginia travel to Richmond for the three-day session (in March or April), serving as elected officials, lobbyists and media. Statewide, more than 50,000 Virginia students have participated since the program began in 1948. HBW has been participating in MGA for seven years.

In the fall, our student delegation prepares various student-written bills to introduce to the assembly based on existing laws in our state. Students work throughout the year to research, support, and debate their proposed bills. Student participants meet about twice a month, and all are expected to attend the culminating conference in Richmond. During this three-day government simulation, legislation is debated in committees and on the floors of the Senate and House of Delegates.