Breakdown of VA laws focusing on protecting kids, mental health [Video]

These bills, having successfully navigated the Senate and the House, were signed into law by Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Covering a broad spectrum of issues, many of these new regulations enhance protections for children, reflecting an effort to address the welfare and safety of the state’s youngest residents.

Among the legislation is newly-signed “Irvo’s Law,” named for Irvo Otieno, 28, who died in custody last March after a mental health crisis.

Otieno’s mother, Caroline Ouko joined the ceremony Thursday, saying Gov. Youngkin “kept his promise” in establishing legislation after her son’s death. 

Senate Bill 546 passed through the General Assembly unanimously. It allows family members to be with their loved ones under an emergency custody order during a mental health crisis unless the patient objects or the family member’s presence would pose …