One rule change could seriously alter the entire landscape in the state of Virginia. That rule, which is up for vote next month, is the rule that has probably been the single reason for huge state meet performances.
The rule in question is the VHSL's rule of limiting athletes to three running events and unlimited field events. The proposed change would bring it inline with the NFHS' four event limit. The change is currently in the executive committee phase and is expected to pass. Following that, the rule will be brought to its' members to vote on. These voting members are almost always the schools' athletic directors. If a majority of them vote to make the change it will be passed and take affect shortly thereafter.
Before we delve into the sides on this matter it should be noted what is going on. First of all, the VHSL is a member-run organization. That means they act as a executive force and not as a legislative force. It is members who are pushing for this and ultimately will pass or not pass its' rule change.
The VHSL does however have a reason to look into this matter. Since their rules are different than the NFHS' it could be inferred that this disparity could lead to legal liability. But again, they are only an executive force and do not legislate.
Virginia is different when it comes to this rule. Nearly every other state, above 90%, follow this NFHS rule. Virginia not following this rule has allowed for many more great overall performances at the state meet level. It has allowed superstar athletes to compete in many events and single-handedly win team trophies.
The change proposed, as of now, would put the VHSL inline with the NFHS' rule of four events allowed. That means any athlete could compete in only four events at a track meet, regardless of event. That could mean Sam Affolder running the 4x800, 3200, 1600, and 1000 at the state meet. It could also mean athletes like Kori Carter, who can compete in nearly all field events, cannot compete in as many events as she is qualified for.
You can make an argument for safety concerns leading to this change and you can make an argument against this rule for safety concerns. You could also make the argument that this rule disproportionately favors distance runners or say it levels the field for distance runners. Either way you look at it though you must understand Virginia is the outlier on this issue.