VA SB491

Prohibits Virginia public schools from denying enrollment or educational services to any child based on actual or perceived immigration or citizenship status of the child or their parents

Bars schools from collecting immigration status information except when required by law, and prohibits designating immigration status, country of origin, or nationality as directory information

Restricts school boards, employees, and school resource officers from disclosing immigration status information to law enforcement or immigration agencies, with exceptions for compliance with federal law (8 U.S.C. §§ 1373 and 1644)

Creates a civil cause of action for violations, requiring 15-day notice to the school division before filing suit, with available remedies including injunctive relief, actual damages for willful violations, and attorney fees for prevailing plaintiffs

Requires the Department of Education to develop guidance by August 1, 2026, and school boards must implement policies by December 31, 2026, with administrator training completed by the 2027-2028 school year