(Richmond, VA) -- Governor Glenn Youngkin signed a bill that makes it a Class 5 felony for landlords to threaten renters with sexual extortion. Scott Kimbler with more.Preview: Voicer Script:
Delegate Wendell Walker introduced House Bill 1998 to protect renters from malicious threats for sexual favors. The bill addresses sexual assault beyond nonconsensual sex, including threats to housing security. Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney Bethany Harrison advocated for the bill, citing cases of sexual exploitation by landlords in her region, according to the Cardinal News. The bill, effective July 1, also creates a felony for violations against individuals under 15, with penalties ranging from one to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100-thousand dollars.