Virginia Senate Bill SB82

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 1/5/22
• Report Pass: 1/17/22
• Engrossed: 1/19/22
• Refer: 2/22/22
• Report Pass: 2/25/22
• Enrolled: 3/7/22
• Chaptered: 4/11/22
• Passed: 4/11/22

Caption

City reversion; disposition of police department or sheriff's department motorcycles.

Impact

The passage of SB82 modifies the Code of Virginia by adding a new section that governs the disposition of police motorcycles in cases of city reversion to town status. This law not only facilitates the sale of municipal assets to former officers but also ensures that those who served in law enforcement retain access to the resources they might need in their future careers. By stipulating the purchase process, the bill seeks to create a clearer framework for these transactions as municipalities evolve.

Summary

SB82 addresses the specific situation where a city becomes a town and the local police or sheriff's department ceases to exist. The bill allows the officers from the former city police department or sheriff's department to purchase motorcycles that previously belonged to those departments at the original purchase price. This legislative change acknowledges the transition of municipal structures and aims to provide financial relief to law enforcement personnel who may be affected by such changes in governance.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB82 appears largely positive, as it seems to garner overwhelming support, passing with a notable majority in the House, where the vote was recorded as 98 in favor and only 1 against. This suggests that there is a general consensus among legislators regarding the importance of supporting law enforcement professionals during significant changes in city structure.

Contention

While SB82 has received supportive votes, there may still be points of contention regarding the broader implications of city revertings and asset management. Some may argue that the bill does not sufficiently address the procedural safeguards required for such transitions, or that it may overlook the concerns of towns regarding financial management and clearing municipal assets. Nonetheless, its primary objective remains focused on the fairness towards officers during such transitions.