Sexually violent predators; repeals sections authorizing civil commitment. (SB1244)

Introduced By

Sen. Joe Morrissey (D-Richmond) with support from co-patron Del. Patrick Hope (D-Arlington)

Progress

Introduced
Passed Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Signed by Governor
Became Law

Description

Civil commitment of sexually violent predators. Repeals sections of the Code of Virginia authorizing civil commitment of sexually violent predators. Read the Bill »

Outcome

Bill Has Failed

History

DateAction
01/11/2021Prefiled and ordered printed; offered 01/13/21 21100900D
01/11/2021Referred to Committee on the Judiciary
01/27/2021Passed by indefinitely in Judiciary with letter (12-Y 0-N) (see vote tally)

Comments

Ut Prosim writes:

While it may sound simplistic, surely the Commonwealth could invest far less than $52 million every year to treat these individuals in less restrictive community settings around the state that include ankle bracelets and an opportunity to successfully reintegrate into society.

Virginia remains in the minority of 20 states that can't seem to figure out how to manage this population effectively outside of an extraordinarily expensive prison setting. In the interest of both the imprisoned and the taxpayers, maybe the legislature could ask the other 30 states.

Virginia Poverty Law Center, tracking this bill in Photosynthesis, notes:

VPLC opposes.