Bill > HB212

This bill modifies existing election law in Virginia by removing the requirement that a person must have *willfully* hindered or prevented an election official from administering elections to be found guilty of intimidation and threats toward that official. Under the current law, this offense is a Class 5 felony, which is a serious crime punishable by imprisonment. By removing the word "willfully," the bill makes it easier to prosecute individuals who intimidate or threaten election officials, as the prosecution will no longer need to prove the intent behind the action, only that the action occurred and interfered with election administration. Election officials are broadly defined to include members of the State Board of Elections, the Commissioner of Elections, local electoral board members, general registrars, deputy registrars, and officers of election, as well as their employees.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB212