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HB 99

Felony eluding; mandatory minimum term in correctional facility.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jason Ballard and 1 co-sponsor

HB 99 imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences for felony eluding, eliminating judicial discretion and likely increasing state incarceration costs.

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Bill Summary · HB 99

Legislative bill overview

HB 99 establishes mandatory minimum prison sentences for the felony crime of eluding law enforcement. The bill removes judicial discretion in sentencing for this offense, requiring a fixed minimum term in a correctional facility regardless of circumstances. The measure is currently stalled in committee after a subcommittee voted to table it.

Why is this important

Mandatory minimums significantly restrict judges' ability to consider individual case facts when sentencing, affecting both the severity of consequences defendants face and the state's incarceration costs. This directly impacts criminal justice policy in Virginia and has budgetary implications, as evidenced by the fiscal impact statement requested from the Department of Planning and Budget.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial discretion vs. uniformity: Mandatory minimums prevent judges from adjusting sentences based on mitigating factors, defendant history, or circumstances—a concern that likely contributed to the subcommittee's 7-3 vote to table the bill
  • Incarceration costs: Removing sentencing flexibility typically increases prison populations and state corrections spending, which is why fiscal impact analysis was required
  • Proportionality concerns: Eluding offenses vary significantly in danger and context (minor traffic stop vs. high-speed chase endangering lives), yet mandatory minimums treat all cases identically

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

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