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SB 201

Consumer Data Protection Act; protections for children; definitions.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by David Suetterlein

Virginia bill establishing data privacy protections for consumers with enhanced safeguards for children's personal information; failed committee vote in 2026.

Failed to report (defeated) in General Laws and Technology (7-Y 7-N 1-A)
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Bill Summary · SB 201

Legislative bill overview

SB 201 is Virginia legislation that establishes consumer data protection standards with specific safeguards for children's personal information. The bill creates definitions and regulatory frameworks governing how companies collect, use, and share consumer data, with enhanced protections for minors.

Why is this important

Data protection laws directly affect how much personal information companies can collect from residents and how that data can be used for marketing, profiling, or sale. For children specifically, stronger protections address concerns about predatory practices, behavioral manipulation, and long-term privacy risks during formative years when users may not fully understand data implications.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Companies argue comprehensive data protection requirements increase operational expenses, potentially raising consumer costs and creating competitive disadvantages versus out-of-state businesses
  • Scope and definitions: Disagreement likely exists over what constitutes "personal data" of children, at what age protections apply, and which business practices should be restricted
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Disputes may center on who enforces violations (state attorney general, private lawsuits, regulatory agencies), penalty levels, and safe harbors for companies making good-faith compliance efforts

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

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