WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 455

Va. Opioid Use Red. & Jail-Based Substance Use Disorder Trtmt. and Transition Fund; grant procedure.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rod Willett

Virginia establishes opioid reduction grants for jail-based substance use disorder treatment and transitional support services to reduce recidivism and overdose deaths.

Governor's recommendation received by House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 455

Legislative bill overview

HB 455 establishes a grant fund in Virginia designed to reduce opioid use and support substance use disorder treatment programs within jails, along with transition services to help individuals reintegrate after release. The bill sets up procedures for distributing grants to eligible jurisdictions and facilities implementing these evidence-based interventions.

Why is this important

Jails hold a significant population struggling with opioid addiction and substance use disorders, yet many lack adequate treatment infrastructure. This fund addresses a critical gap by financing in-custody treatment and post-release support, which research shows reduces recidivism, overdose deaths, and repeat incarceration—ultimately lowering costs to the criminal justice system while improving public health outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and amount: The bill doesn't specify budget allocation, leaving uncertainty about whether resources will be sufficient or whether funds will compete with other state priorities
  • Local implementation capacity: Smaller or rural jurisdictions may lack infrastructure or expertise to establish programs, potentially creating unequal access across Virginia's regions
  • Program effectiveness metrics: The bill's grant procedure may lack clear accountability measures defining what constitutes successful treatment outcomes or how performance will be evaluated

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

Sign in to ask a question.