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Bill

HB 2268

Emerging Technologies, Cybersecurity, and Data Privacy, Division of; established.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony

Virginia proposes establishing a new state Division of Emerging Technologies, Cybersecurity, and Data Privacy to centralize oversight of technology risks and data protection across government.

Left in Appropriations
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Bill Summary · HB 2268

Legislative bill overview

HB 2268 proposes establishing a new Division of Emerging Technologies, Cybersecurity, and Data Privacy within Virginia state government. The bill would create a dedicated administrative structure to coordinate policy, regulation, and oversight of cybersecurity threats, emerging technology implementation, and data protection across state agencies.

Why is this important

As cyberattacks and data breaches increasingly target government systems and citizens' personal information, states are establishing specialized divisions to respond more effectively. This bill addresses growing concerns about Virginia's readiness to protect critical infrastructure, state data, and resident privacy in an evolving threat landscape while positioning the state to manage rapid technological change strategically.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budget priorities: The Fiscal Impact Statement suggests appropriations concerns; lawmakers may question whether creating new bureaucracy is the most efficient use of limited state resources compared to funding existing agencies
  • Jurisdictional overlap: Unclear how this division would coordinate with existing cybersecurity efforts in other agencies (IT, law enforcement, attorney general's office), potentially creating redundancy or turf conflicts
  • Scope and regulatory power: The bill's specific authorities and enforcement mechanisms are not detailed in this summary, raising questions about whether the division would have actual power to compel compliance or merely advisory capacity

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

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