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Bill

SB 417

Cloud Computing Cluster Infrastructure Grant Fund; reclaimed water usage, definitions.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Richard Stuart

Virginia bill establishes cloud computing infrastructure grants and clarifies reclaimed water usage rules to boost data center development and wastewater reuse sustainability.

Reported from General Laws and Technology with amendment and rereferred to Finance and Appropriations (8-Y 5-N 2-A)
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Bill Summary · SB 417

Legislative bill overview

SB 417 establishes a Cloud Computing Cluster Infrastructure Grant Fund in Virginia and modifies definitions related to reclaimed water usage. The bill would provide state grants to support cloud computing infrastructure development while clarifying regulatory language around treated wastewater applications.

Why is this important

Cloud computing infrastructure represents significant economic development and job creation potential, particularly as data centers become increasingly important to state competitiveness. The reclaimed water provisions could reduce freshwater consumption by encouraging beneficial reuse of treated wastewater, addressing both environmental sustainability and infrastructure efficiency concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal commitment uncertainty: The bill was referred to Finance and Appropriations after passing General Laws with mixed votes (8-Y, 5-N, 2-A), suggesting debate over funding mechanisms and budget impacts
  • Grant fund specifics: The bill's framework for awarding grants—including eligibility criteria, award amounts, and geographic distribution—isn't detailed in available summaries, raising questions about equitable allocation
  • Water reuse regulations: Modifications to reclaimed water definitions could have unintended consequences for existing wastewater treatment systems or agricultural operations if implementation standards aren't clearly established

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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