HB 118: Discovery materials or evidence; accused may request to copy or photograph any materials.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Discovery; methods of delivery. Requires the Commonwealth, upon request by the accused or his counsel, to copy or photograph any discovery materials or evidence the accused is permitted to inspect and review, including relevant police reports, criminal records, dashboard camera footage, and body-worn camera footage, and requires the Commonwealth to provide copies to the accused or his counsel, subject to the redaction, restricted dissemination, and protective order provisions of the relevant Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia and unless such material is prohibited from being distributed by law.The bill requires the attorney for the Commonwealth in any district court to provide to counsel of record for the accused, if requested, a copy of any relevant police report at least 10 days prior to the date the case is set for trial or preliminary hearing, and such report is subject to limitations on dissemination. The bill further provides that if such materials are provided to counsel of record for the accused in district court for a preliminary hearing, the circuit court shall order such counsel to provide discovery to the attorney for the Commonwealth subject to the relevant Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia prior to trial in circuit court. Lastly, the bill provides that if at any time during the course of the proceedings it is brought to the attention of the court that the attorney for the Commonwealth has failed to comply with such provisions, the court may order the Commonwealth to permit discovery or inspection, grant a continuance, or prohibit the Commonwealth from introducing evidence not disclosed, or the court may enter such other order as it deems just under the circumstances.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 9

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. April 13, 2026Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0562)
2. April 13, 2026Approved by Governor-Chapter 562 (effective 7/1/2026)
3. March 31, 2026Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
4. March 31, 2026Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 31, 2026
5. March 31, 2026Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB118)
6. March 31, 2026Signed by Speaker
7. March 30, 2026Signed by President
8. March 30, 2026Bill text as passed House and Senate (HB118ER)
9. March 30, 2026Enrolled
10. March 13, 2026Conference report agreed to by Senate (39-Y 0-N 0-A)
11. March 13, 2026Conference Report released
12. March 12, 2026Conference report agreed to by House (81-Y 14-N 0-A)

Showing 12 most recent of 40 actions. Full history