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SB 846

Minor's records; access to records stored or accessible from a secure website.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Christie Craig

Virginia law now requires institutions to grant parents/guardians access to minors' records stored on secure websites, effective July 1, 2025.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0131)
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Bill Summary · SB 846

Legislative bill overview

SB 846 modifies Virginia law to allow parents and guardians to access records of minors that are stored on or accessible through secure websites, expanding their rights beyond physical documents. The bill clarifies that educational institutions, healthcare providers, and other entities maintaining digital records must provide parents/guardians access to these online-stored materials under existing parental access statutes.

Why is this important

As records increasingly move to digital platforms, this legislation addresses a practical gap where parents could legally access physical files but faced barriers accessing the same information online. The change affects education, healthcare, and social services—domains where parental oversight and involvement are significant policy considerations, particularly for minors under 18.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. parental rights: The balance between minors' emerging privacy interests and parental authority, especially for older teenagers accessing healthcare or counseling services
  • Implementation burden: Organizations may face significant costs and technical challenges retrofitting systems to provide secure digital access while maintaining cybersecurity standards
  • Data security concerns: Expanding access points to sensitive minor information online could increase vulnerability to breaches or unauthorized access if not properly safeguarded

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

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