VA HB489

Establishes a legal framework for restorative justice practices in Virginia, defining them as voluntary processes where parties who caused harm, victims, and community members work with certified facilitators to repair harm, address trauma, and reduce future harm.

Protects confidentiality of restorative justice communications by making them inadmissible in legal proceedings and not subject to discovery, unless parties execute a written agreement otherwise or exceptions apply.

Participation in restorative justice practices cannot be used as evidence or admission of guilt in legal proceedings when the victim, defendant, and Commonwealth's Attorney agree in writing.

Adds restorative justice facilitators to the list of mandatory reporters required to report suspected child abuse or neglect, with penalties of up to $500 for first failure and $1,000 or more for subsequent failures.

Allows limited exceptions to confidentiality protections when disclosure is necessary to prevent death or serious harm, comply with other laws, or when courts require status reports limited to whether the practice occurred and its success.