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Bill

HB 2725

Surveillance technology; reporting by state/local law-enforcement agencies & sheriff's departments.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Rasoul

Virginia law enforcement must annually report surveillance technology use, costs, and deployment frequency to ensure transparency and accountability.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0420)
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Bill Summary · HB 2725

Legislative bill overview

HB 2725 requires Virginia state and local law enforcement agencies and sheriff's departments to report annually on their use of surveillance technologies, including details on acquisition costs, deployment frequency, and any civil rights complaints. The bill establishes transparency and accountability mechanisms for surveillance tool usage while allowing law enforcement to continue using these technologies.

Why is this important

Surveillance technologies—such as facial recognition, license plate readers, and cell-site simulators—can significantly impact privacy and civil liberties. Without public oversight, agencies may deploy these tools without adequate safeguards or public knowledge. This bill creates a documented record that legislators, oversight bodies, and the public can use to evaluate whether surveillance is being used appropriately and equitably across communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement operational concerns: Agencies may argue that detailed reporting on surveillance capabilities and deployment locations could compromise ongoing investigations or reveal security vulnerabilities
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: The bill's effectiveness depends on how "surveillance technology" is defined; overly narrow definitions could allow agencies to avoid reporting on certain tools, while overly broad ones might create excessive administrative burden
  • Implementation costs and resources: Smaller rural departments with limited IT infrastructure may face disproportionate compliance expenses compared to well-funded urban agencies

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

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