An Act to amend and reenact §§ 2.2-3705.5 and 2.2-3711, as it is currently effective and as it may become effective, of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 32.1-283.9, relating to local and regional suicide fatality review teams; penalty.
HB513 amends Virginia’s public records and health-related confidentiality laws and creates a new section authorizing local and regional suicide fatality review teams. The bill updates § 2.2-3705.5, which lists records excluded from mandatory disclosure under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, and § 2.2-3711, which governs closed meetings, to account for the new review-team structure and related confidentiality needs. It also adds § 32.1-283.9 to establish the teams and provide a legal framework for their work.
The new suicide fatality review teams are intended to examine suicide deaths in a confidential, multidisciplinary setting so that agencies can identify patterns, risk factors, and prevention opportunities. The bill’s text indicates that information gathered by these teams is treated as protected and not subject to ordinary public disclosure, and it includes a penalty provision for unauthorized disclosure or misuse of protected information. The legislation is aimed at improving suicide prevention efforts while preserving privacy for decedents, families, and participating agencies.
HB513 changes Virginia law by carving out additional confidentiality protections in the FOIA and open-meetings statutes and by creating a statutory basis for local and regional suicide fatality review teams under Title 32.1. It affects public bodies, local health districts, behavioral health and social services stakeholders, and any agencies or individuals participating in suicide death reviews. The bill also reinforces that certain records and discussions connected to these reviews are exempt from mandatory disclosure and subject to penalties if improperly released.
The available record shows the bill was enacted as Chapter 158, which suggests it had sufficient support to pass both chambers and receive the Governor’s approval. Although no committee transcript or vote breakdown is provided, the final enactment indicates the measure was generally viewed favorably as a public health and prevention tool. The overall sentiment appears supportive, especially around improving suicide prevention and interagency review efforts while maintaining confidentiality.
The main point of contention likely centered on confidentiality versus transparency. Because the bill expands exemptions from public disclosure and authorizes closed, sensitive reviews of suicide deaths, concerns may have been raised about limiting access to government records and proceedings. Supporters would emphasize the need for privacy, candor, and effective prevention work, while critics might worry about reduced public oversight or broad secrecy around agency actions. No specific opposing arguments or named opponents are included in the provided materials.