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SB 307

Crimes by gangs; definition of "predicate criminal act," penalties.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Peake

SB 307 redefines gang crime predicates and penalties in Virginia, but was tabled indefinitely due to fiscal and implementation concerns.

Passed by indefinitely in Finance and Appropriations (9-Y 4-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 307

Legislative bill overview

SB 307 modifies Virginia's gang crime statutes by redefining what constitutes a "predicate criminal act" for gang-related offenses and adjusts associated penalties. The bill passed through the Courts of Justice Committee unanimously but was subsequently tabled indefinitely in the Finance and Appropriations Committee, suggesting concerns about fiscal impact or implementation costs.

Why is this important

Gang crime legislation directly affects prosecution strategies, sentencing severity, and criminal justice resources. Expanding or narrowing the definition of predicate acts can significantly influence how prosecutors charge gang-related offenses and the sentences defendants receive, with ripple effects on incarceration rates and state correctional budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of predicate acts: Disagreement likely exists over whether the redefinition casts too wide or too narrow a net—potentially over-criminalizing minor gang associations or under-addressing serious gang violence
  • Fiscal burden: The indefinite tabling in Finance and Appropriations suggests concerns about implementation costs, prosecution workload, or correctional system capacity to handle revised sentencing schemes
  • Due process implications: Changes to gang crime definitions raise questions about whether individuals can be fairly prosecuted under modified standards and whether the bill provides adequate clarity to prevent arbitrary enforcement

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

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