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Bill

HB 171

Student instruction; Internet safety, policy to include key modern digital safety topics.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Askew and 2 co-sponsors

Virginia requires schools to teach students modern digital safety topics including contemporary online threats and protective strategies in instruction policies.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0048)
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Bill Summary · HB 171

Legislative bill overview

HB 171 requires Virginia schools to include modern digital safety topics in their student instruction curricula and policies. The bill mandates that internet safety education address contemporary online threats and challenges facing students in digital environments. This represents an update to existing safety standards to reflect current technology use patterns among youth.

Why is this important

Students today face evolving online risks including cyberbullying, predatory behavior, data privacy concerns, and misinformation that differ significantly from threats a decade ago. Without age-appropriate instruction on these dangers, students may lack critical skills to protect themselves online. Schools updating curricula to address these real threats can reduce harm and help students develop safer digital habits before they encounter dangerous situations.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum scope and specificity: Disagreement may arise over which "modern" topics should be mandatory (social media algorithms, AI, cryptocurrency scams, etc.) and whether requirements are too vague or too prescriptive
  • Implementation costs and teacher training: Schools must develop materials and train educators, raising questions about funding adequacy and whether the fiscal impact statement reflects true implementation expenses
  • Content sensitivity and parental involvement: Debates over age-appropriate coverage of topics like online predation, sextortion, and exploitation—and whether parents should have opt-out provisions or input on curriculum design

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

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