VA HB331

Requires courts to impose costs on defendants who receive deferred proceedings without a judgment of guilt under various Virginia statutes covering offenses such as alcohol violations, assault and battery, sexual offenses, and drug-related crimes.

Prohibits courts from requiring payment of costs or fees as a condition of the deferral for agreements entered on or after July 1, 2026.

Allows courts to adjudicate matters upon fulfillment of all other deferral terms, either by agreement of the parties, conviction on an alternative charge, or dismissal of the case.

Maintains that costs and fees remain due until paid even after the underlying case is adjudicated or dismissed, with all existing legal collection methods still available to the court.