WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJ 36

Internet Safety & Online Predator Awareness Day; designating as August 1, 2026 & each succeeding yr.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Wendell Walker

Virginia designates August 1st annually as Internet Safety & Online Predator Awareness Day to encourage public education about online exploitation threats.

Subcommittee recommends reporting (5-Y 0-N)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJ 36

Legislative bill overview

House Joint Resolution 36 designates August 1st as "Internet Safety & Online Predator Awareness Day" in Virginia, beginning in 2026 and continuing annually. The resolution creates an official day for public awareness and education about online safety threats and predatory behavior targeting citizens, particularly minors.

Why is this important

Designating an annual awareness day provides a recurring opportunity for schools, community organizations, law enforcement, and families to coordinate education efforts about online dangers. Such awareness campaigns can help reduce vulnerability to exploitation, scams, and predatory contact by increasing public knowledge of warning signs and safety practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Effectiveness questions: Critics may argue that a symbolic resolution alone does little without accompanying funding or mandatory educational programs to drive actual awareness efforts
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what activities, organizations, or educational content should characterize the observance, leaving implementation unclear
  • Resource allocation debate: Some may question whether legislative time is better spent on substantive online safety legislation (age verification, platform accountability) rather than designating awareness days

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

Sign in to ask a question.