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Bill

HB 440

Driver's licenses; repeals suspension for nonpayment of child support and unsatisfied judgements.

2026 Regular Session

Virginia bill eliminates driver's license suspension for unpaid child support and court judgments, potentially reducing enforcement effectiveness but easing hardship for obligated parties.

Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB440)
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Bill Summary · HB 440

Legislative bill overview

HB 440 would eliminate Virginia's authority to suspend driver's licenses as an enforcement mechanism for unpaid child support obligations and unsatisfied court judgments. Currently, the state can revoke or suspend driving privileges for those who fall behind on these financial obligations, and this bill would remove that penalty.

Why is this important

Driver's license suspension significantly impacts individuals' ability to work, attend school, and access essential services, potentially creating a cycle where people cannot earn income to pay their obligations. This bill raises questions about how the state should enforce child support and civil judgments while balancing the practical needs of obligated parties and the interests of creditors and dependent children.

Potential points of contention

  • Child support enforcement: Removing license suspension may reduce collection rates for child support, potentially affecting the financial support available to custodial parents and children
  • Judgment collection: Creditors and judgment holders may view this as weakening debt enforcement tools, particularly for civil cases unrelated to family matters
  • Alternative enforcement mechanisms: The bill doesn't specify what enforcement methods would replace license suspension, raising questions about effectiveness and implementation
  • Fairness concerns: Debate over whether suspension disproportionately harms low-income individuals versus serving as necessary accountability for non-compliance

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

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