VJJA : Legislative Committee - Lobbying Efforts

VJJA has a proud history of child advocacy, researching and promoting legislative and policy changes and organizing advocacy campaigns that make sense for court-involved children. Our group participates as a member of the Virginia Juvenile Justice Coalition and maintains a constant presence at the Virginia General Assembly while the body is in session. Twice awarded the Citizen Legislator Award, recent successes include the passage of HB 3007 (Certification Only After Conviction) in 2007 and the successful defeat of SB 372 (Juvenile Sex Offender Registry) in 2008.

Our group is currently drafting a legislative package and setting advocacy priorities for 2009. We are also adopting a series of position statements.

Direct questions concerning child advocacy and legislative activity to VJJA President, Beth Stinnett, at 804.786.0486 or president@vjja.org.

LEGISLATIVE AWARDS & SUCCESSES
2003 - Citizen Legislator Award
2003 - HB 2012 (Notification of Det.Hearings)
2004 - Citizen Legislator Award
2004 - HB 653 (PO Authority to Place in Jail)
2007 - HB 3007 (Cert Only After Convicton)

2008 - Successfully Opposed SB372 & Others

VJJA Receives Legislative Award - 2003
VJJA received the “Citizen Legislator Award” for our work on HB 2012 which amended Virginia Code §16.1-250.1 to ensure that notice of a juvenile detention review hearing is given to the probation and parole department of the court service unit. Former Legislative Liaison Teri Larsen accepted the award on behalf of the association. The award was sponsored by Delegate Robert Bell.

VJJA Receives Another Legislative Award
VJJA received the 2004 “Citizen Legislator Award” for our work on HB 653 which amended and reenacted §16.1-247 and §16.1-249 of the Code of Virginia relating to custody and confinement for juvenile offenders. Delegate Rob Bell sponsored the bill on our behalf. Senator Chuck Colgan sponsored the same bill in the Senate (SB 577). HB653 allows juvenile intake officers and magistrates the authority to order confinement of a person 18 years of age or older in jail rather than a juvenile detention center for an offense that occurred prior to the person obtaining the age of 18. Prior to the new law, the authority was limited to judges.

“SQUEAKY WHEEL” NETWORK

No single act contributes more to shaping the outcome of issues than personal contacts with your elected lawmakers. Let VJJA know if you have contacts and are willing to use them to support VJJA legislative priorities. Become a part of VJJA’s “Squeaky Wheel” network today! To learn more, e-mail us at:

legislation@vjja.org