The Highway Safety and Policy Subcommittee of Virginia convened on January 15, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at enhancing road safety and addressing the growing issue of street takeovers and exhibition driving. The meeting, which lasted from 3:59 PM to 5:21 PM, featured several key agenda items, including the introduction of House Bill 2036, presented by Delegate Bulova.

The first significant discussion centered on a bill that would classify street takeovers and exhibition driving as reckless driving, making it a Class 1 misdemeanor. Delegate Bulova highlighted the dangers associated with these activities, which often involve reckless maneuvers in public spaces, posing risks not only to participants but also to bystanders. The bill aims to provide law enforcement with the necessary tools to combat these dangerous events, which have been increasingly prevalent across Virginia.

Delegate Bulova showcased a multimedia presentation, including video footage of recent street takeover incidents in Northern Virginia, to illustrate the severity of the issue. The footage depicted chaotic scenes where law enforcement officers faced aggressive crowds, underscoring the urgent need for legislative action.

The subcommittee also heard from representatives of the Fairfax County Police Department, who expressed their support for the bill. Commander Scott Caldwell noted that illegal street takeover events have become a regular occurrence, often organized through closed communication channels to evade law enforcement. He emphasized the need for stronger legal measures to protect public safety and assist police in managing these dangerous situations.

The discussion included a detailed examination of the bill's provisions, which would impose penalties for spectators knowingly participating in such events, as well as for those impeding traffic. The bill also allows for the impounding of vehicles involved in exhibition driving, a measure intended to deter participants by removing their means of engagement.

During the meeting, committee members raised questions regarding the definitions used in the bill, particularly concerning the term "spectator." Delegate Bulova assured members that the bill carefully delineates who qualifies as a spectator to avoid penalizing innocent bystanders.

After thorough deliberation, the subcommittee voted unanimously, 8-0, to report the bill favorably, with plans for it to be heard in the full committee the following morning. The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency regarding the need for legislative action to curb the rising trend of dangerous driving behaviors in Virginia.

Overall, the subcommittee's discussions highlighted a proactive approach to highway safety, with a focus on addressing the challenges posed by street takeovers and ensuring the safety of all road users in the Commonwealth.