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HB 769

Damage or trespass to public services or utilities or critical infrastructure; penalties.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Charniele Herring

HB 769 increases criminal penalties for damaging, destroying, or trespassing on Virginia's public utilities and critical infrastructure to strengthen protection against sabotage and service disruption.

Fiscal Impact Statement from State Corporation Commission (HB769)
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Bill Summary · HB 769

Legislative bill overview

HB 769 establishes criminal penalties for damaging, destroying, or trespassing on public services, utilities, or critical infrastructure in Virginia. The bill creates enhanced criminal sanctions for individuals who interfere with essential systems that support public safety and economic function.

Why is this important

Critical infrastructure—including power grids, water systems, communications networks, and transportation systems—affects millions of Virginians' daily lives. Strengthening legal protections and penalties for damage or unauthorized access to these systems is intended to deter sabotage, vandalism, and illegal interference that could disrupt essential services or endanger public safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: How "critical infrastructure" and "public utilities" are defined could be overly broad or narrow, potentially affecting legitimate protest activities, environmental activism, or civil disobedience
  • Penalty severity: The level of criminal penalties (felony vs. misdemeanor, sentencing length) may be debated as proportionate or excessive depending on the type and extent of damage
  • Intersection with First Amendment concerns: Distinguishing between protected speech/protest and criminal trespass or damage requires careful legal clarity to avoid chilling lawful dissent

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

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