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HB 1478

In-person visitation; policies and procedures at certain facilities.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Will Davis

Bill would establish or modify in-person visitation policies at state facilities but was unanimously rejected by Health and Human Services Committee on February 3, 2026.

Stricken from docket by Health and Human Services (22-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 1478

Legislative bill overview

HB 1478 would establish or modify policies and procedures governing in-person visitation rights at certain Virginia facilities, likely including correctional institutions, healthcare facilities, or other state-regulated environments. The bill was introduced by Delegate Will Davis but was stricken from the docket by the House Health and Human Services Committee on February 3, 2026, with a 22-0 vote against advancement.

Why is this important

Visitation policies directly affect individuals' access to family members, legal representatives, and support networks while in institutional care or custody. These policies balance security/operational concerns with constitutional rights to association and family contact, affecting vulnerable populations including incarcerated individuals, patients in psychiatric facilities, and residents of care homes.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and facility types: Unclear which specific facilities the bill targets, potentially creating different impacts for prisons, jails, psychiatric hospitals, nursing homes, or immigration detention
  • Balancing security vs. access: Tension between maintaining facility security/operations and ensuring meaningful visitation rights, particularly in correctional settings
  • Implementation costs: The Department of Planning and Budget's fiscal impact statement suggests potential budgetary concerns that may have influenced the committee's unanimous rejection

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

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