Virginia House Bill HB2279

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25

Caption

Attorney General; prosecuting violations of criminal law related to human/sex trafficking offenses.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will have a significant impact on the existing protocol regarding the prosecution of criminal cases within the Commonwealth. It strengthens the local attorneys' roles by requiring the concurrence of local attorneys for the Attorney General to engage in various criminal proceedings. It aims to create a more defined structure on who handles criminal cases, particularly emphasizing the critical issues of human and sex trafficking, which have been increasingly highlighted as a priority by lawmakers and advocacy groups.

Summary

House Bill 2279 seeks to amend and reenact Section 2.2-511 of the Code of Virginia, specifically focusing on redefining the authority of the Attorney General in criminal cases, particularly those related to human and sex trafficking. The bill outlines that the Attorney General's direct involvement in criminal prosecutions is limited mainly to certain specified offenses unless called upon by the Governor. This change could shift responsibilities concerning criminal cases, emphasizing a clearer boundary of authority and potentially streamlining legal processes in Virginia.

Contention

The introduction of HB 2279 is positioned within a broader discussion on accountability and authority within Virginia's criminal justice system. Some legislators may argue that the limitations set on the Attorney General's authority could lead to inconsistencies in prosecution, especially in serious cases like human trafficking. Critics might raise concerns about the capacity of local attorneys to handle complex cases adequately without state-level support, pointing out that this change might inadvertently weaken the prosecution of significant crimes. On the other hand, supporters of the bill could argue that it allows local authorities to maintain control and actor's responsibilities where they are most knowledgeable about community issues.