VA HB173

Requires Virginia state correctional facilities to provide in-person visitation opportunities at maximum safe seating capacity, with each visit lasting a minimum of two hours and allowing hand holding throughout the visit

Establishes extended visitation access for "long-distance visitors" whose primary residence is at least 150 miles from the facility, with visits scheduled for longer durations subject to space and security requirements

Limits visitation suspensions to conduct presenting direct security threats during visitation, capping suspensions at 60 days for first violations and 120 days for repeat violations, with permanent revocation requiring at least three documented serious violations

Creates an appeals process for visitation suspensions with 15-day filing window and 20-day decision requirement, reviewed by an official not involved in the initial suspension decision

Mandates a work group of stakeholders including prisoners, advocates, mental health professionals, and corrections staff to develop recommendations on family visitation enhancements, holiday meals, and restoring visitation to 2019 levels, with findings due by October 1, 2026