VA HJR21

Directs the Virginia State Crime Commission to study and propose a model policy framework for treatment and sentencing of veterans in the criminal justice system, with a report due by the start of the 2027 General Assembly session

Notes that Virginia ranks fifth nationally in veteran population with 684,043 veterans, yet only 10 veterans treatment dockets operate statewide, leaving most courts without specialized veteran diversion options

Cites research showing incarcerated veterans screen positive for PTSD at 39% compared to 6% for civilians, and that veterans are more likely to be arrested and incarcerated while being underidentified and receiving inconsistent diversion opportunities

Requires the study to develop broad eligibility criteria for treatment programs, uniform alternatives to prosecution, diversion programs, veteran sentencing options recognizing veteran status as a mitigating factor, and individualized case plans based on evidence-based assessments

Mandates evaluation of current sentencing guidelines to allow judicial discretion for veterans, policy recommendations to expand services in localities without treatment dockets, and funding estimates to implement the framework