WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 617

Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program authority; right of entry, performance bond.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tara Durant

SB 617 expands Virginia stormwater program officials' authority to enter private property for inspections and adjusts performance bond requirements for stormwater management projects.

Continued to next session in Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources (14-Y 0-N)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 617

Legislative bill overview

SB 617 modifies Virginia's Erosion and Stormwater Management Program by expanding the authority of program administrators to enter private property for inspection and enforcement purposes, and adjusts requirements for performance bonds related to stormwater management projects. The bill grants these officials greater access rights while potentially modifying financial security requirements for contractors.

Why is this important

Stormwater management directly affects water quality, flooding prevention, and environmental protection in Virginia communities. Expanding enforcement authority can improve program compliance and protect waterways, but it also increases government access to private property, raising questions about landowner rights and the scope of regulatory power.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. public interest: The expanded right of entry onto private land without explicit consent may concern landowners who view this as government overreach, even if framed as necessary for environmental protection
  • Performance bond modifications: Changes to bond requirements could either burden small contractors and developers with higher costs or, conversely, weaken financial protections if bonds are reduced
  • Enforcement discretion: Broader authority for administrators to access property creates potential for inconsistent application across jurisdictions and raises due process concerns about notice and fair inspection procedures

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

Sign in to ask a question.