SB475Introduced in the Senate
Criminal Procedure - Evidence - Protecting Artists' Creative Expression (PACE Act)
Introduced by Charles Sydnor, District 44
What does this bill do?
Plain-English breakdown
Writing a plain-English summary of this bill… this can take a few seconds the first time.
Official description
Providing that the creative expression of a criminal defendant or juvenile respondent is not admissible against the defendant or respondent unless the court makes certain findings, subject to a certain exception; and providing that the Act does not preclude the admission of a creative expression in juvenile cases for the purposes of evaluating, recommending, or ordering referral to mental health services or diversion programs.
Where it stands
Approved by the Governor - Chapter 517
May 12, 2026
How did lawmakers vote?
House of Delegates votes
1 recorded vote · each counted separately
Senate votes
2 recorded votes · each counted separately
SenateStage: Third Reading Passed · April 9, 2026
32
Yes
10
No
5
Absent or Not Voting
47 senators recorded in this Senate vote. Colors show vote categories only, not whether a vote was good or bad.
See how each senator voted
| Senator | District | Vote |
|---|---|---|
| Mike McKay | 1 | No |
| Paul Corderman | 2 | No |
| Karen Lewis Young | 3 | Yes |
| William Folden | 4 | No |
| Justin Ready | 5 | No |
| Johnny Salling | 6 | No |
| J.B. Jennings | 7 | No |
| Carl Jackson | 8 | Yes |
| Katie Hester | 9 | Yes |
| Benjamin Brooks | 10 | Yes |
Bill history
First Reading Judicial Proceedings
Hearing 2/11 at 1:00 p.m.
Hearing canceled
Hearing 2/11 at 2:00 p.m.
Favorable Report by Judicial Proceedings
Favorable Adopted
Second Reading Passed
Third Reading Passed (33-10)
Referred Judiciary
Favorable with Amendments Report by Judiciary
Favorable with Amendments {433823/1 Adopted
Second Reading Passed with Amendments
Third Reading Passed (99-35)
Senate Concurs House Amendments
Third Reading Passed (32-10)
Passed Enrolled
Approved by the Governor - Chapter 517
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