Virginia SB 608: Peer recovery specialists; VDH & DOC to develop guidelines for hiring.

Bill Text

2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26102529D

SENATE BILL NO. 608

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 14, 2026

A BILL to direct the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Department of Corrections to develop agency guidelines for hiring peer recovery specialists with previous criminal convictions for compensated employment.

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Patrons—Pillion, Ebbin and Mulchi

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Referred to Committee on Rehabilitation and Social Services

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. § 1. That the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Department of Corrections shall develop agency guidelines for hiring peer recovery specialists with previous criminal convictions for compensated employment. Such guidelines shall include provisions clarifying the requirements for employment in specific programs and positions operated by the Departments of Health and Corrections and include, at a minimum, language providing for employment of such individuals that is consistent with the provisions of § 37.2-314 of the Code of Virginia granting exceptions to the list of barrier crimes for individuals hired for compensated employment at an adult mental health or adult substance abuse treatment program.