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HB 250

Sex offenses prohibiting proximity to children; Park Authorities Act, penalty.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Virgil Thornton and 1 co-sponsor

HB 250 restricts sex offenders' proximity to children and enforces penalties through Park Authorities Act provisions, strengthening community safety measures but raising enforcement and civil liberties questions.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 96 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 250

Legislative bill overview

HB 250 modifies Virginia law regarding sex offenders by establishing proximity restrictions to children and imposing penalties related to Park Authorities Act violations. The bill creates new geographic limitations on where individuals convicted of certain sex offenses can be located relative to minors and establishes associated criminal penalties for violations.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects public safety policies and the reintegration of convicted sex offenders into communities. It also impacts law enforcement's ability to monitor compliance and affects where registered offenders can legally reside or be present, influencing both community protection measures and the civil liberties of individuals post-conviction.

Potential points of contention

  • Civil liberties concerns: Proximity restrictions may be viewed as excessive post-conviction punishment that extends indefinitely, raising questions about rehabilitation and proportionality of penalties
  • Enforcement and definitional clarity: The bill's specificity regarding "proximity to children" requires clear definitions (distance measurements, exceptions for family members, public spaces) to avoid inconsistent enforcement
  • Geographic feasibility: Strict proximity restrictions in densely populated areas may make compliance practically impossible for offenders, particularly regarding public parks and schools, creating enforcement challenges and questions about the law's realistic application

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

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