VA HB1453

Creates a new crime for approaching or remaining within 25 feet of a first responder after receiving a verbal warning, when done with intent to impede their duties, threaten physical harm, or harass them

Defines "first responder" to include law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, and probation and parole officers

Establishes penalties of a Class 4 misdemeanor for first offense and Class 2 misdemeanor for subsequent offenses

Explicitly protects the right to observe, photograph, or record first responders from any distance, provided the person does not violate the approach prohibition with specified intent

Exempts subjects of official action and their representatives, persons providing medical assistance, and news media engaged in newsgathering activities