Scored 4/10 on whether it helps or hurts everyday people.
The Collection Window Bill
Virginia cuts fine collection window to ten years
Fines and costs; period of limitations on collection, deferred payment agreement.
Mixed: some good, some bad ·
If passed, the bill would limit how long the state can chase old fines to ten years and set payment plans for inmates after release.
Our take
What we think, in plain words.
Citizens could see old traffic tickets disappear, easing debt burdens, while the state may lose money from long‑ago fines; lawmakers should weigh fairness versus revenue.
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The facts
What the bill actually says, no spin.
- Current law lets the state collect fines for up to 60 years (circuit court) or 30 years (district court).
- The bill shortens that period to ten years for any court judgment.
- Inmates must get a deferred payment plan that starts after they are released.
- Courts must post payment‑plan rules online and can charge a $10 admin fee.
How they voted
The actual floor vote, and who broke from their own party.
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- Lee Ware (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
- Michael Webert (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
- Thomas Garrett (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
- James Leftwich (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
- Phillip Scott (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
- Tim Griffin (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
- Mitchell Cornett (R): voted against it, crossing most Republicans
In the news
Scanning the news for this bill…
Headlines gathered from across the news, starting points to explore, not endorsements. Always read the official text before acting.
Sources
Read it yourself: the official bill and records.
This bill is in the Virginia Bill Book 2026
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