View source for Virginia HB1070 - Bar Prior Convictions at Trial (2026)

'''Virginia HB1070 — Bar Prior Convictions at Trial''' — Bill to bar prosecutors from mentioning a defendant's prior convictions during the guilt phase of a trial, even if it's for the same crime.

== Summary ==
HB1070 would prevent prosecutors from informing juries about a defendant's prior criminal record during the guilt phase of a trial. This applies even when the defendant is being tried for the same type of crime they were previously convicted of.

== Key Details ==
* '''Bill Number''': HB1070
* '''Session''': 2026 Virginia General Assembly

== Legislative Status ==
* '''Bill Number''': HB1070
* '''Official Title''': Prior conviction; procedure for use as element of offense charged.
* '''Status''' (as of Feb 18, 2026): '''Passed House''' — ✅ Passed House (in Senate)
* '''Patron''': Sam Rasoul
* '''LIS Link''': [https://lis.virginia.gov/bill/20261/HB1070 HB1070 on Virginia LIS]
* '''Notes''': Votes: 60‑Y 35‑N 0‑A, 15‑Y 7‑N, 60‑Y 35‑N

== Sources ==
* [https://x.com/ChristianHeiens/status/2014112122448290086 Christian Heiens bill compilation thread]
* [https://lis.virginia.gov/ Virginia Legislative Information System]

[[Category:Virginia Democrats Trifecta (2025)]]
[[Category:United States]]
[[Category:Review Pending]]