VA HB7

Prohibits law-enforcement officers from wearing facial coverings that conceal their identity while performing official duties, with violations classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor unless the employing agency has adopted a written policy on facial coverings

Defines "facial covering" as any opaque mask, garment, helmet, or device that hides a substantial portion of the face, including balaclavas, tactical masks, ski masks, and similar items

Creates exceptions allowing officers to wear translucent face shields, N95/surgical masks for disease protection, helmets for motorcycles or hazardous conditions, protective eyewear against lasers, underwater equipment, and facial coverings for SWAT team operations

Establishes civil liability for officers who knowingly and intentionally violate the facial covering prohibition, allowing injured persons to sue for actual damages or $10,000 (whichever is greater) plus attorney fees, with sovereign immunity waived

Requires the Department of Criminal Justice Services to establish a model policy for law-enforcement agencies on facial covering restrictions, consistent with the bill's provisions