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VA HB1392

Bill

Status

Engrossed

2/11/2026

Primary Sponsor

Karen Keys-Gamarra

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Requires sheriffs who exempt courthouse employees or law enforcement from security screening to also exempt attorneys who present a valid Virginia State Bar card and government-issued ID
  • Creates a Class 1 misdemeanor for attorneys with suspended or revoked licenses who display a bar card to bypass courthouse security screening
  • Mandates that local jails providing phone, electronic, or web-based communication systems must include confidential means for prisoners to communicate with their attorneys at regular, published times
  • Requires sheriffs and jail superintendents to accommodate attorney requests for prisoners to review discovery, correspondence, and trial materials to assist in their own defense
  • Directs the State Board of Local and Regional Jails to collect data on jail communication systems and assess costs for implementation, with a report due to legislative committees by November 1, 2026

Legislative Description

Correctional facilities, local and regional, and courthouse security; powers & duties for operation.

Last Action

Senate substitute with amendments agreed to by House (84-Y 13-N 1-A)

3/11/2026

Committee Referrals

Finance and Appropriations2/25/2026
Rehabilitation and Social Services2/13/2026
Militia, Police and Public Safety: Subcommittee #22/3/2026
Public Safety1/21/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available