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Bill

HB 862

Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP), Commission on; structure and responsibilities.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rae Cousins

Creates commission to restructure Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program's governance and evaluate its effectiveness for DUI offenders and public safety outcomes.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 686 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 862

Legislative bill overview

HB 862 establishes a commission to review and restructure the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP), which provides education and monitoring services for individuals convicted of alcohol-related driving offenses. The bill creates a formal governance structure and defines the commission's responsibilities for evaluating the program's effectiveness, operations, and recommendations for reform.

Why is this important

VASAP is a widely-used diversion and education program affecting thousands of Virginians annually with DUI convictions. How the program is structured, funded, and managed directly impacts program quality, cost to participants, recidivism rates, and access to justice for defendants—making commission oversight potentially significant for public safety and criminal justice equity.

Potential points of contention

  • Program cost burden: VASAP fees and costs fall on participants; restructuring could either increase accessibility or shift costs, raising equity concerns
  • Effectiveness accountability: The bill requires evaluation metrics, but disagreement may emerge over what constitutes "success" and whether current data supports program expansion or reduction
  • Commission composition and authority: Who serves on the commission and how much power it wields over existing VASAP operations and funding could face debate between stakeholders with different interests

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

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