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VA HB1492

Bill

Status

Engrossed

2/11/2026

Primary Sponsor

Irene Shin

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Amends Virginia Code § 18.2-174 to add enhanced penalties for impersonating law-enforcement officers, including local, state, and federal officers

  • First offense for impersonating an officer remains a Class 1 misdemeanor, with second or subsequent offenses elevated to a Class 6 felony

  • Creates new Class 5 felony for impersonating an officer while wearing a facial covering (balaclava, tactical mask, ski mask, or similar face-concealing items)

  • Second or subsequent offense while wearing a facial covering increases to a Class 4 felony

  • Fiscal impact estimated at minimum $50,000 due to anticipated increase in imprisonment periods in state correctional facilities

Legislative Description

Impersonating federal law-enforcement officer; increases penalties.

Last Action

Conference report agreed to by Senate (22-Y 17-N 0-A)

3/14/2026

Committee Referrals

Finance and Appropriations2/25/2026
Courts of Justice2/13/2026
Militia, Police and Public Safety: Subcommittee #31/28/2026
Public Safety1/23/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available