Virginia 2026 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HB11

Introduced
12/19/25  

Caption

<p class=ldtitle>A BILL to amend and reenact § 37.2-808, as it is currently effective and as it shall become effective, of the Code of Virginia, relating to emergency custody orders; transportation to treatment center or to residence of the person subject to emergency custody order.</p>

Impact

This proposed legislation will directly affect how emergency custody orders are implemented within the state. It allows officers and authorized personnel to take a person into custody for evaluation within a specific timeframe, which ensures that those in mental health crises can be assessed and receive necessary treatment quickly. Additionally, the legislation provides for the inclusion of alternative transportation providers, widening the scope of who can assist in these situations, thus reducing the burden on law enforcement personnel while also enhancing the individual's care during transport.

Summary

House Bill 11 seeks to amend the Code of Virginia, specifically concerning emergency custody orders and the processes surrounding the transportation of individuals subject to these orders. The bill aims to enhance the mechanisms available for law enforcement and medical professionals to ensure the safety of individuals with mental health issues. It emphasizes proper procedures for the issuance, execution, and transportation of individuals who pose a substantial risk to themselves or others due to mental illness. Importantly, the bill stipulates that an emergency custody order can be issued by a magistrate based on probable cause, enabling prompt intervention when necessary.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 11 may raise concerns regarding the implications of law enforcement's expanded role in mental health crises. While supporters argue that this bill will streamline emergency responses and improve the protection of vulnerable individuals, critics may highlight the potential for misuse or overreach in the application of emergency custody orders. The emphasis on prompt action may lead to tension between maintaining appropriate medical evaluations and the rights of the individuals involved, questioning whether such rapid interventions are always beneficial or necessary.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA HB2230

Emergency custody and involuntary admissions; transfer of custody to facility.

VA HB2705

Child custody orders; transfer of custody to person with legitimate interest.

VA HB1895

Involuntary temporary detention orders; amends definition of "psychiatric emergency department."

VA SB1094

Involuntary temporary detention orders; amends definition of "psychiatric emergency department."

VA HB2719

Firearms; adding court ordered outpatient mental health treatment as prohibition to ownership.

VA SB869

Autism spectrum disorder or a developmental disability; custodial interrogation of person.

VA HB2520

Virginia military forces; preliminary protective orders, etc.

VA HB1854

Persons with legitimate interest; parent whose rights have previously been terminated, custody, etc.

VA HB2425

Abuse, etc., of child younger than 15 by person in custodial/supervisory relationship; penalty.

VA SB819

Community-based outpatient stabilization programs for voluntary treatment; referrals.

Similar Bills

VA HB976

Person in temporary detention process; alternative transportation provider.

UT SB0310

Transportation Utility Fee Amendments

VA HB976

An Act to amend and reenact §§ 16.1-340.2 and 37.2-810, as it is currently effective and as it shall become effective, of the Code of Virginia, relating to transportation of person in the temporary detention process.

AZ SB1184

Transportation services employees; drivers; wages

MI SB0928

Health: licensing; behavioral health transportation licensing requirements; provide for. Amends 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1001 - 330.2106) by adding ch. 9B. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0927'26

CA AB1343

Local alternative transportation improvement program: Feather River crossing.

NJ S1249

Requires transportation network companies to share information concerning sexual misconduct investigation of driver; authorizes transportation network company to ban drivers from accessing digital network during and following investigation.

CA SB371

Transportation network companies: insurance coverage.