Bill > HB489

This bill establishes definitions and protections for restorative justice practices, which are voluntary processes where parties who have caused harm, been harmed, or other participants meet with facilitators to address harm, trauma, reduce future harm, or strengthen community ties. Key provisions include that participation in these practices cannot be used as evidence of guilt or civil liability in legal proceedings, and communications made during these practices are confidential and generally cannot be disclosed or compelled in any legal setting, with exceptions for preventing death or serious harm, complying with other laws, court orders for reports (limited in scope), or if all parties waive the privilege. The bill also grants civil immunity to individuals who in good faith disclose restorative justice communications believing it's allowed under these provisions, provided the disclosure is limited to the allowable scope. Additionally, it clarifies that restorative justice facilitators, like other professionals, must report suspected child abuse or neglect, even if the suspicion arises from information gained during a restorative justice practice.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB489