Bill > HB974

This bill establishes a review process for when a Commonwealth's attorney designates a law-enforcement officer as a witness with a "witness impeachment evidence designation," which means the attorney believes the officer has given inconsistent statements or engaged in conduct requiring disclosure in a criminal case under the U.S. Constitution. Within seven days of making such a designation, the attorney must notify the officer and their employing agency. The officer then has 21 days to request a review of the evidence leading to the designation, which the attorney must provide within five business days. The officer can formally object to the designation within 21 days, citing factual disputes about the reasons for it or whether their conduct warrants disclosure. The Commonwealth's attorney must then respond in writing within seven days, either upholding the designation with specific reasons or removing it. Crucially, this bill prohibits law-enforcement officers from being fired or disciplined solely because of this designation, though agencies can still take action based on the underlying conduct that led to the designation.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB974