Requires Jails to Report Deaths in Custody
Virginia · HB80 · Introduced Dec 31, 2025
Why it matters
Jails that do not report deaths could lose state money, which could affect their budgets. Reports could also be used to look for ways to reduce deaths in custody.
What it does
- Requires jails to report deaths of people in custody, including name, race, age, date, and cause
- Lets the governor order state payments to a local or regional jail withheld until it complies
- Requires the state to analyze death data and report findings and recommendations each July 1
- Requires the jail board to share death data with the state on request for federal reporting
Status
Latest action (2026-07-21): Continued from last session
About this bill
Would require local and regional jails to report custody deaths, with the governor able to withhold state payments from jails that do not comply.
Civilian deaths in custody; local and regional adult correctional facilities failure to report.
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Government oversight groups would likely say that reporting deaths in custody is needed for accountability. Withholding funds gives the state a way to enforce the rule.
💬 The case against
Some local sheriffs and jail administrators would likely say withheld funds could hurt staffing and services. They may also argue the 10-day deadline is too short.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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