This law outlines the procedures for sealing criminal records in Virginia and restricts their dissemination once sealed. It specifies that sealed records cannot be shared except for authorized purposes and details how agencies are notified of such seals. The law also defines how electronically stored records are treated once sealed.
Sealing a criminal record means it is restricted from public access and dissemination, except for specific authorized purposes outlined by law.
Agencies can access sealed records only for purposes permitted by law and according to rules and regulations adopted by Virginia authorities.
Electronically stored sealed records are considered sealed if transferred to secure, offline systems accessible only to authorized personnel.
This law becomes effective on July 1, 2026, establishing new procedures for sealing and handling criminal records.