March 26th, 2025

IAHR Response to VA Governor Youngkin’s Veto of HB 2647 / SB 1409

Dear Supporters,

Governor Youngkin’s decision to once again veto HB 2647/SB 1409 is both deeply disappointing and a blatant disregard for the lived experiences of incarcerated Virginians and their families. As we read his response, we are appalled that even the recent crisis at Red Onion State Prison was not enough to prove that so-called "restorative housing" is nothing more than torture.

The governor claims to prioritize "data-driven decision-making" and "evidence-based practices," yet those principles seem to hold no weight when it comes to the lives of incarcerated people. The reality is clear: restorative housing is solitary confinement by another name, and it continues to inflict psychological and physical harm on those subjected to it. The reference to the 2023 legislation, which has yet to be meaningfully implemented, does nothing to address the suffering taking place in Virginia’s prisons today.

The accounts from incarcerated individuals and their families paint a starkly different picture from the one the governor and the Department of Corrections (VADOC) would have the public believe. These testimonies are proof of the inhumane conditions that persist under the guise of safety and order. Ignoring these voices is not just negligent—it is an active choice to uphold a system that devalues human life.

Despite this veto, Interfaith Action for Human Rights, the Virginia Coalition on Solitary Confinement, and our partners will not stop fighting to end prolonged solitary confinement in Virginia. We will continue to introduce legislation that restricts the abuse and isolation of incarcerated Virginians. We will not accept empty rhetoric that prioritizes bureaucratic convenience over basic human rights.

This is not the end. It is another reminder of why we must keep pushing forward—until all people are treated humanely.

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Natasha White
Director of Community Engagement, IAHR

Kimberly Jenkins Snodgrass
Senior Policy Advisor, IAHR

March 26th, 2025

Read VA Governor Youngkin’s Decision to Veto of HB 2647 / SB 1409

Pursuant to Article V, Section 6 of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto House Bill 2647, which regulates the use of restorative housing by the Virginia Department of Corrections.

This is the second time this legislation has been brought to my desk. I continue to stand by the bipartisan reforms enacted during the 2023 legislative session that improved the Department of Corrections' utilization of restorative housing. I supported and signed that legislation, which has since been implemented by the Department, bringing in best practices that have proven beneficial for correction officers and inmates.

These reforms represented the culmination of significant efforts by the Department and have positioned us as a national leader in correctional innovation. The Department remains committed to developing new programs and fostering collaboration with diverse voices and stakeholders.

Central to the agency's mission is reentry and long-term public safety, guided by data-driven decision-making and evidence-based practices. The restorative housing program, operating within these principles, stands as a component to ensure safety and security for both inmates and staff.

The new definitions and regulations provided in this proposal still pose challenges to the continued success of these reforms. Designating mental health units as isolated confinement without consideration for the informed judgment of mental health professionals undermines effective prison management. Furthermore, imposing arbitrary timeframes for stays in restorative housing, including investigation time, restricts the staff's ability to maintain order and security.

Attempting to legislate prison operational procedures carries inherent risks to inmates, staff, and the public. Corrections professionals are entrusted with oversight for a reason, as they must balance multiple interests while ensuring safety. Congregating individuals without proper management protocols is not a viable solution.

I also have concerns regarding the budgetary implications of implementing this proposal. The provisions required by this bill may potentially divert funding from vital reentry programs and initiatives to reduce recidivism. Additionally, the proposal introduces unnecessary bureaucracy for facility administrators, detracting from the Department's ability to prioritize safety and inmate rehabilitation.

While I remain committed to fostering a correctional system that prioritizes the safety of all stakeholders, including everyday Virginians, inmates, and correctional officers, I do not believe it is currently prudent to proceed with this proposal. My signature on the bipartisan reforms of 2023, and my continued support for reform and innovation within the Department underscore my dedication to this cause.

Accordingly, I veto this bill.

Governor Glenn Youngkin

Statement published March 25th, 2025: View original publication here.

March 25th, 2025

VA Governor Youngkin Vetoes HB2647.

Dear Supporters, 

Unfortunately, Governor Youngkin has once again vetoed our Virginia Restorative Housing Bill, HB2647. You can read Governor Youngkin's full statement regarding this decision here: HB2647 Governor's Veto

Let’s take a moment to regroup. Kimberly and I are currently drafting a formal response, but we felt it was imperative to address the coalition first. By no means are we defeated. We remain steadfast in our fight for justice and will not stop until all people are treated humanely. This setback only strengthens our resolve.

Stay tuned for next steps, and thank you for your unwavering commitment.

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Natasha White
Director of Community Engagement, IAHR

Kimberly Jenkins Snodgrass
Senior Policy Advisor, IAHR