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Bill

SB 597

Wage garnishments; treasurers' liens for unpaid taxes and charges.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lashrecse Aird

Expands Virginia local governments' authority to garnish wages and place property liens for unpaid taxes and municipal charges, streamlining debt recovery procedures.

Governor's recommendation received by Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 597

Legislative bill overview

SB 597 modifies Virginia's wage garnishment laws and establishes new procedures for county and city treasurers to place liens on property for unpaid taxes and other municipal charges. The bill streamlines the process by which local governments can recover outstanding debts through wage garnishment and property liens, with specific conditions and protections built into the procedure.

Why is this important

This legislation affects both individual debtors and local government revenue collection. For individuals, it expands mechanisms through which wages can be seized for unpaid obligations, potentially impacting household finances. For municipalities, it provides clearer legal pathways to recover unpaid taxes and fees, directly affecting local government budgets and service delivery.

Potential points of contention

  • Debtor protections: The expansion of garnishment authority may disproportionately impact lower-income residents who struggle with tax payments, raising equity concerns about debt collection methods
  • Scope of "charges": The bill's reference to "unpaid taxes and charges" may be ambiguous regarding what qualifies as collectible charges, potentially creating disputes over what local governments can pursue
  • Lien procedures and transparency: New treasurer lien authority requires clear procedural safeguards to prevent abuse; concerns may arise about notice requirements, appeal processes, and how liens are publicized

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

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