WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJ 501

Constitutional amendment; Literary 5 Fund, exemption for certain asset forfeiture (first reference).

2025 Regular Session Introduced by A.C. Cordoza

Virginia constitutional amendment exempting the "Literary 5 Fund" from asset forfeiture laws, pending voter approval.

Left in Privileges and Elections
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJ 501

Legislative bill overview

HJ 501 proposes a constitutional amendment in Virginia that would create an exemption to asset forfeiture laws for the "Literary 5 Fund." The bill appears to carve out specific protections for assets associated with this fund, preventing them from being seized through civil or criminal forfeiture proceedings. This is a constitutional-level change requiring voter approval.

Why is this important

Asset forfeiture is a consequential law enforcement tool that allows government to seize property suspected of connection to crime. Constitutional amendments are the highest level of legislative action and are difficult to pass and modify. This amendment would establish a permanent, constitutionally-protected carve-out for a specific fund, raising questions about whether particular assets deserve special constitutional protection unavailable to other citizens.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency: The bill's brief language provides minimal detail about what the "Literary 5 Fund" is, why it warrants constitutional protection, and what assets it contains
  • Selective constitutional protection: Creating constitutional exemptions for specific funds raises fairness questions about why this particular fund receives protection other entities do not
  • Asset forfeiture reform debate: This amendment intersects with broader national debates about whether civil asset forfeiture itself needs reform, potentially addressing symptoms rather than systemic issues

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

Sign in to ask a question.