VA HB449

Establishes a comprehensive class action framework for Virginia state courts, allowing representative parties to bring civil actions on behalf of a class when joinder is impracticable, common questions of law or fact exist, claims are typical, and representatives adequately protect class interests

Requires court certification of class actions with defined procedures for notice to class members, appointment of class counsel, and approval of any settlements, voluntary dismissals, or compromises

Amends the Virginia Consumer Protection Act to clarify damages of $500 per violation (or $1,000 per willful violation) and removes the requirement that plaintiffs prove reliance on prohibited practices to establish loss

Permits interlocutory appeals to the Court of Appeals from orders certifying or declining to certify a class action

Becomes effective January 1, 2027, with retroactive application allowing conduct occurring before that date to be filed as a class action if otherwise actionable under relevant law