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Bill

HB 249

Marcus alert system; external database information removal.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Garrett McGuire and 1 co-sponsor

HB 249 establishes procedures allowing removal of individuals from Virginia's MARCUS alert database when they are no longer considered at-risk or missing.

Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice
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Bill Summary · HB 249

Legislative bill overview

HB 249 establishes procedures for removing individuals from Virginia's MARCUS alert system external database once they are no longer considered at-risk or missing. The bill creates a mechanism for law enforcement and relevant parties to request removal of information from the publicly accessible database that helps locate endangered individuals.

Why is this important

The MARCUS system helps locate missing or endangered people, but retaining outdated information can create privacy concerns and potential stigma for individuals who are no longer at risk. Clear removal procedures balance public safety benefits with individual privacy rights and data accuracy.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. public safety trade-offs: Disagreement over how quickly information should be removed versus maintaining records for pattern identification or re-emergence of risk
  • Criteria for removal: Disputes over who decides someone is "no longer at-risk" and what evidence is required (law enforcement discretion vs. objective standards)
  • Data retention concerns: Questions about whether information is truly deleted or archived, and whether removed individuals can be re-added without their knowledge

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

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