VA SJR21

Directs the Joint Commission on Health Care to study options for establishing a non-punitive, protected reporting system for medical errors in Virginia

Requires evaluation of current medical error reporting practices and rates, including reports to patient safety teams and regulatory authorities

Mandates analysis of potential consequences healthcare providers face when reporting unintended errors, including criminal liability, insurance costs, reputational damage, and licensure impacts

Requires recommendations on the feasibility of providing immunity from criminal liability for unintentionally committed medical errors, excluding cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct

Study must be completed by November 30, 2026, with findings and recommendations submitted by the first day of the 2027 General Assembly session