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HB 1746

Public safety officer; definition.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Baxter Ennis and 4 co-sponsors

HB 1746 redefines "public safety officer" in Virginia law, potentially expanding eligibility for related benefits and protections, but subcommittee rejected it in January 2025.

Left in Public Safety
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Bill Summary · HB 1746

Legislative bill overview

HB 1746 proposes to modify Virginia's legal definition of "public safety officer" to expand or clarify which personnel qualify under this designation. The bill was prefiled in January 2025 and has progressed through initial committee assignment, though a subcommittee voted against recommending it for further consideration in January.

Why is this important

Definitions of "public safety officer" carry significant consequences, as they typically trigger eligibility for specialized training requirements, legal protections, pension benefits, workers' compensation coverage, and liability standards. Expanding or narrowing this definition could affect budget allocations, personnel classifications across Virginia agencies, and the scope of legal responsibilities for various roles.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope expansion concerns: Opponents may worry the redefinition extends benefits or legal protections too broadly, increasing government costs or conflicting with existing civil service classifications
  • Occupational classification disputes: Labor unions, professional associations, and affected agencies may disagree about which roles genuinely warrant "public safety officer" status
  • Fiscal impact: The Department of Planning and Budget's fiscal statement suggests cost implications that likely drove subcommittee opposition, though specific details are not publicly detailed here

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

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