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HB 491

Line of Duty Act; eligibility for sheriffs and deputy sheriffs.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nadarius Clark and 3 co-sponsors

HB 491 extends Virginia's Line of Duty Act death and disability benefits to sheriffs and deputy sheriffs, but was removed from budget consideration over fiscal concerns.

Stricken from docket by Appropriations (21-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 491

Legislative bill overview

HB 491 expands eligibility for Virginia's Line of Duty Act benefits to include sheriffs and deputy sheriffs, who were previously excluded from these protections. The bill would allow law enforcement officers in sheriff's offices to access the same death and disability benefits available to other state and local police officers.

Why is this important

The Line of Duty Act provides critical financial support to families of officers killed or permanently disabled in the course of duty. Extending coverage to sheriffs' offices addresses a significant gap in protection for a substantial portion of Virginia's law enforcement workforce, potentially affecting hundreds of officers and their families.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal cost: The bill was stricken from the Appropriations Committee docket, suggesting concerns about budgetary impact and unfunded liability expansion to the Virginia Retirement System
  • Jurisdictional equity: Questions about why sheriffs were excluded initially and whether other law enforcement categories (correctional officers, state police) deserve similar reconsideration
  • Actuarial sustainability: Expanding benefit programs requires careful assessment of long-term pension obligations and whether current funding mechanisms can absorb additional beneficiaries

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

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