Virginia § 24.2-1005.1 - Communication of false information to registered voter
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 24.2-1005.1 — Communication of false information to registered voter, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 24.2-1005.1. Communication of false information to registered voter
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to communicate to a registered voter, by any means, false information, knowing the same to be false, intended to impede the voter in the exercise of his right to vote. The provisions of this section shall apply to information only about the date, time, and place of the election, or the voter's precinct, polling place, or voter registration status, or the location of a voter satellite office or the office of the general registrar.
B. Any person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Such violation may be prosecuted either in the jurisdiction from which the communication was made or in the jurisdiction in which the communication was received.
C. In addition to the criminal penalty provided in subsection B, a violation of the provisions of this section shall also create a cause of action. A registered voter to whom such false information is communicated shall be entitled to institute an action for preventative relief, including an application for a permanent or temporary injunction, restraining order, or other order, against the person communicating such false information. The action shall be instituted in the circuit court of either the jurisdiction from which the communication was made or the jurisdiction in which the communication was received. In any such action, the court may, in its discretion, allow a private plaintiff a reasonable attorney fee as part of the costs, if such plaintiff is the prevailing party.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 24.2-1005.1
What does Code of Virginia § 24.2-1005.1 cover?
Section 24.2-1005.1 ("Communication of false information to registered voter") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 24.2-1005.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 24.2-1005.1" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 24.2-1005.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.