SB 198: Individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities; admissibility of statements.

Official summary

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

Admissibility of statements by individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities in certain cases. Prohibits admission of any evidence from an individual with developmental disabilities or intellectual disabilities, as defined in relevant law, in certain criminal prosecutions unless the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that such individual's decision to speak to law enforcement was not caused by and did not have a direct and substantial relationship to such individual's disability. The bill requires notice be given to the attorney for the Commonwealth if a defendant intends to introduce expert testimony regarding his disability. The bill prohibits any statements made by a defendant during an examination by an expert witness from being used against him except for impeachment or perjury. The provisions of the bill do not become effective unless reenacted by a subsequent regular or special session of the General Assembly.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1

“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. March 9, 2026Tabled in Appropriations (22-Y 0-N)
2. March 2, 2026Reported from Courts of Justice with amendment(s) and referred to Appropriations (15-Y 7-N)
3. February 25, 2026Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (SB198)
4. February 20, 2026Subcommittee recommends reporting with amendment(s) and referring to Appropriations (7-Y 3-N)
5. February 20, 2026House subcommittee offered
6. February 19, 2026Assigned HCJ sub: Criminal
7. February 19, 2026Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice
8. February 19, 2026Read first time
9. February 19, 2026Placed on Calendar
10. February 16, 2026Read third time and passed Senate (21-Y 17-N 0-A)
11. February 13, 2026Engrossed by Senate - committee substitute as amended (Voice Vote)
12. February 13, 2026Finance and Appropriations Amendment agreed to

Showing 12 most recent of 24 actions. Full history