WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 247

Deferred dispos. in criminal case; persons with autism, intellectual, or developmental disabilities.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Laura Jane Cohen and 2 co-sponsors

HB 247 permits deferred disposition for criminal defendants with autism, intellectual, or developmental disabilities, dismissing charges upon successful completion of court-ordered conditions.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 960 (effective 7/1/2026)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 247

Legislative bill overview

HB 247 establishes deferred disposition procedures in Virginia's criminal justice system specifically for individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, or developmental disabilities. This allows eligible defendants to have charges dismissed upon successful completion of court-ordered conditions rather than proceeding through traditional conviction pathways.

Why is this important

Deferred disposition programs can reduce unnecessary criminal records for vulnerable populations while incentivizing completion of treatment or support services. For individuals with developmental disabilities, avoiding permanent convictions may improve employment prospects, housing access, and social reintegration while still holding defendants accountable through conditional requirements.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: Questions about how "developmental disabilities" will be clinically verified and who qualifies, potentially creating inconsistent application across courts
  • Victim protection concerns: Critics may argue that dismissing charges prioritizes defendant outcomes over victim interests and accountability, particularly in cases involving harm to others
  • Fiscal burden: Implementation requires judicial resources, diagnostic assessments, and monitoring of compliance conditions; the fiscal impact statement suggests administrative costs that localities must absorb

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

Sign in to ask a question.