1/17/23

A new proposal before the General Assembly would allow local police chiefs in Virginia to unilaterally declare public curfews.

State Bill 1455, put forth by Republican delegate Tommy Norment, would grant the highest-ranking law enforcement officer within a locality – normally the chief of police – the authority to declare up to 24 hours of curfew. This authority would apply if there’s an “imminent risk” of a riot. Violations could result in up to 12 months behind bars.

An extension of the chief-imposed curfew would require either a court order or another vote from the local governing body.

Currently, local municipalities are the only bodies with the power to enact curfews.