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Bill

Bill

HB 874

Domestic and Sexual Assault Conviction Database; established.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Hillary Pugh Kent

Virginia establishes a statewide database tracking domestic and sexual assault convictions to improve law enforcement coordination and victim safety assessments.

Subcommittee recommends reporting and referring to Appropriations (7-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 874

Legislative bill overview

HB 874 establishes a dedicated database for tracking domestic and sexual assault convictions in Virginia. The bill creates a centralized record-keeping system to compile conviction data across the state's judicial system.

Why is this important

A conviction database improves law enforcement's ability to identify repeat offenders, supports victim safety assessments, and enables better coordination between agencies handling domestic violence and sexual assault cases. Such databases can inform bail decisions, sentencing recommendations, and protective order proceedings.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy and data security concerns: Questions about who can access conviction records, how personal information is protected, and whether the database could enable harassment or stigmatization of individuals with convictions
  • Implementation costs: The Appropriations Committee assignment suggests funding will be debated; establishing and maintaining a statewide database requires IT infrastructure, staff, and ongoing resources
  • Scope and accuracy: Disagreement may arise over what convictions are included, how records are updated across jurisdictions, and procedures for correcting erroneous entries

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

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