WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 776

Probationer; requiring fines, costs, restitution for damages, etc., failure to pay.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tammy Mulchi

Virginia bill strengthens court collection of unpaid fines, costs, and restitution from probationers through enhanced enforcement mechanisms.

House amendments agreed to by Senate (40-Y 0-N 0-A)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 776

Legislative bill overview

SB 776 modifies Virginia law to strengthen enforcement mechanisms for collecting fines, costs, and restitution from probationers who fail to pay court-ordered financial obligations. The bill passed the Senate with broad support (34-6) and includes amendments related to court procedures.

Why is this important

Courts struggle to collect financial penalties from probationers, leaving crime victims without full restitution and creating gaps in court funding. This bill attempts to close that collection gap by giving courts clearer authority to enforce payment, though implementation effectiveness depends on probationers' actual ability to pay.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement disparities: Stricter collection methods may disproportionately affect low-income probationers who cannot afford payments, potentially leading to incarceration for poverty rather than criminal behavior
  • Restitution priority conflicts: The bill doesn't clearly specify whether restitution to victims takes priority over government-imposed fines, affecting victims' actual recovery
  • Probation violation triggers: Unclear whether non-payment automatically revokes probation or extends it, with significant consequences for probationers' liberty and employment prospects

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

Sign in to ask a question.