VA HB845

Amends Virginia Code § 8.01-128 governing unlawful detainer (eviction) proceedings to restrict when courts may bifurcate cases

Prohibits courts from bifurcating unlawful detainer cases when the defendant contests the amount of rent and damages alleged to be owed at the initial hearing

Under current law, landlords may request bifurcation to obtain immediate possession judgment while continuing rent/damages determination up to 120 days later

Requires the entire case (possession, rent, and damages) to proceed together when tenants dispute the amounts claimed by the landlord

Introduced by Delegate Cousins on January 14, 2026, with committee referral pending