Bill > HB1874

This bill amends Virginia law to expand protections for the personal information of retired or former law-enforcement officers by adding them to the definition of "public official" for the purposes of preventing the Commonwealth from publishing their personal information online. Specifically, the bill allows retired or former law-enforcement officers to petition a circuit court to prohibit the publication of their personal information if they can demonstrate a threat to their safety or the safety of their household. The bill defines a "retired or former law-enforcement officer" as someone who was previously employed in law enforcement, has retired or ended their service, and is in good standing with no pending investigations or disciplinary actions. The written demand to prevent publication would be effective for four years, provided the officer retired or ended their service within four years of filing the petition. The bill clarifies that "personal information" includes home address, home telephone numbers, personal cell phone numbers, and personal email addresses, and prohibits the Commonwealth (defined as any agency or political subdivision of Virginia) from publishing such information online if a court order is obtained and a written demand is made.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB1874