HB160

Virginia HB160 modifies penalties for Freedom of Information Act violations by public body members.

Virginia HB160 amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act to adjust penalties for officers, employees, or members of a public body found in violation of certain provisions. The bill allows courts to consider mitigating factors, such as good faith reliance on advisory opinions or legal advice, when determining civil penalties. It also specifies that a civil penalty of up to $1,000 may be imposed on a public body if it fails to properly certify a closed meeting, and up to $100 per record for altering or destroying public records.