HB 863: Elimination of Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Certain Offenses
🔴 THREAT LEVEL: HIGH
BILL SNAPSHOT
Bill Number: HB 863
Bill Patron: Del. Rae Cousins (D)
Bill Area: Criminal Justice / Public Safety / Sentencing Reform
QUICK SUMMARY
HB 863 eliminates mandatory minimum jail sentences for numerous serious offenses, including rape, crimes involving violence, firearms, gang activity, DUI manslaughter, and violations of protective orders. The bill gives judges greater discretion and removes guaranteed punishment for repeat and dangerous offenders.
RALLY ANALYSIS
- Mandatory minimums exist to ensure consistent consequences for serious crimes.
- This bill removes protections designed to deter violent behavior and protect victims.
- It weakens jail time for crimes against law enforcement, first responders, educators, and domestic violence victims.
- The bill reflects a broader push toward soft-on-crime policies that prioritize offenders over public safety.
WHY THIS MATTERS
- Endangers victims: Weakens penalties for violating protective orders and repeat violent offences
- Undermines law enforcement: Reduces consequences for assaults on police and law enforcement
- Softens punishment for rape and distribution of child pornography
- Encourages repeat offenses: Eliminates guaranteed consequences for habitual offenders
- Puts ideology over safety: Prioritizes criminal leniency instead of victim protection and deterrence
RALLY VERDICT: ❌ OPPOSE
Rally Virginia strongly opposes HB 863 because it makes communities less safe, weakens accountability for violent crime, and fails victims and law-abiding citizens
Bottom line: Virginia does not need weaker sentences for violent criminals — it needs laws that protect victims, support law enforcement, and put public safety first.
RALLY RADAR — THREAT LEVEL LEGEND
⚫ CRITICAL THREAT — Immediate and severe harm; must be stopped
🔴 HIGH THREAT — Serious risk to safety, liberty, or governance
🟡 MODERATE THREAT — Concerning but limited scope
🟢 LOW THREAT — Minimal impact or symbolic
