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HB 2564

Homeland Security, Bureau of; established, powers and duties, report.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Amanda Batten

Virginia HB 2564 establishes a new state Bureau of Homeland Security with defined powers, duties, and reporting requirements to consolidate emergency and security operations.

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Bill Summary · HB 2564

Legislative bill overview

HB 2564 proposes establishing a new Bureau of Homeland Security within Virginia state government, defining its powers, duties, and organizational structure. The bill requires the bureau to produce reports on its activities and homeland security-related matters affecting the Commonwealth.

Why is this important

Creating a dedicated state-level homeland security agency would consolidate emergency management and security functions under one authority, potentially improving coordination during crises. However, this represents a significant expansion of state government infrastructure with associated costs and administrative responsibilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal burden: The Department of Planning and Budget has already issued a fiscal impact statement, suggesting material costs that lawmakers must weigh against other priorities
  • Duplication concerns: Virginia already has emergency management structures (Virginia Department of Emergency Management); clarifying how this new bureau avoids redundancy is unclear
  • Scope of powers: The bill's broad language about "powers and duties" raises questions about what authority this bureau would actually exercise and potential overlap with federal homeland security agencies

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

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