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HB 1186

Artificial intelligence; use of systems for student instruction.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Maldonado and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia bill would restrict school boards from using AI chatbots for specified student instruction, with strong committee support but unclear implementation scope.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 937 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 1186

Legislative bill overview

HB 1186 would prohibit Virginia school boards from using AI chatbots for certain student instructional purposes. The bill has progressed through the House Communications, Technology and Innovation Committee with a substitute version and is now under consideration by the Education Committee. The specific instructional purposes targeted by the prohibition are not detailed in the provided action summary.

Why is this important

As AI tools become increasingly integrated into educational settings, this bill addresses concerns about their appropriate use in schools. The vote margins (9-1 in subcommittee, 20-2 in full committee) suggest broad legislative support for some restrictions on AI use in instruction, reflecting public concerns about student learning outcomes, data privacy, or over-reliance on automated systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language about "certain" instructional purposes may create unclear boundaries for school administrators implementing the policy, potentially leading to inconsistent enforcement across districts
  • Technology accessibility trade-offs: Restricting AI chatbots could limit tools that support personalized learning, homework assistance, and special education accommodations, disadvantaging some student populations
  • Definitional challenges: The substitute version may have narrowed or clarified what counts as prohibited "instructional purposes," but AI tools often blur lines between instruction, tutoring, and administrative use

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

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