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Bill

HB 1877

Barrier crimes; peer recovery specialists; screening requirements.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 7 co-sponsors

Virginia removes employment barriers for people with criminal records to work as peer recovery specialists in addiction treatment, effective July 2025.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0380)
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Bill Summary · HB 1877

Legislative bill overview

HB 1877 expands opportunities for individuals with certain criminal histories to work as peer recovery specialists—professionals who provide support to people struggling with substance use disorders. The bill modifies "barrier crimes" restrictions that previously prevented many people with convictions from pursuing this career path, and establishes screening requirements for peer recovery specialist positions.

Why is this important

Peer recovery specialists are increasingly recognized as effective supports in addiction treatment, often drawing on lived experience with recovery. By reducing barriers to employment for formerly incarcerated individuals, the bill addresses workforce shortages in behavioral health while providing economic opportunity for people with criminal records. This directly impacts Virginia's ability to expand addiction treatment capacity and affects reentry outcomes for individuals with prior convictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may worry about placing individuals with certain criminal backgrounds in positions involving vulnerable populations, though proponents note screening mechanisms exist to assess individual fitness
  • Scope of barrier crime modifications: Disagreement over which convictions should remain disqualifying versus which should be reconsidered on a case-by-case basis
  • Screening requirement specifics: Uncertainty about whether screening standards adequately protect clients while remaining fair to job applicants with records, and whether implementation guidance is sufficiently clear for employers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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