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Bill

SB 23

Plea agreements and court orders; prohibited provisions.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Saddam Salim

SB 23 restricts certain provisions in Virginia plea agreements and court orders, potentially protecting defendant rights while limiting judicial and prosecutorial flexibility in sentencing conditions.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Bill Summary · SB 23

Legislative bill overview

SB 23 would prohibit certain provisions from being included in plea agreements and court orders in Virginia. While the bill text itself is not provided in your submission, such legislation typically restricts courts and prosecutors from imposing conditions that extend beyond the direct consequences of conviction or that limit defendants' constitutional rights in future proceedings.

Why is this important

Plea agreement restrictions directly affect criminal defendants' rights and judicial authority. These bills can prevent overreach in sentencing conditions while also potentially limiting judicial flexibility in crafting individualized sentences. The impact depends entirely on which specific provisions the bill targets—whether it focuses on protecting defendants or constraining prosecutorial practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial discretion: Whether restricting court order provisions limits judges' ability to impose conditions they deem necessary for rehabilitation or public safety
  • Prosecutorial power: The degree to which limitations affect prosecutors' ability to negotiate meaningful plea terms and protect crime victims' interests
  • Scope ambiguity: Uncertainty about which specific provisions are "prohibited" without seeing the full bill text makes stakeholder assessment difficult

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

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