WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 492

Va. Public Procurement Act; procurement of electric vehicles, forced and child labor prohibition.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Stanley

Virginia would require state EV purchases to prohibit batteries made with forced or child labor, adding compliance verification to public procurement rules.

Left in General Laws and Technology
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 492

Legislative bill overview

SB 492 amends Virginia's Public Procurement Act to require state agencies purchasing electric vehicles to verify that batteries and components were not produced using forced labor or child labor. The bill establishes due diligence and documentation requirements for EV procurement to ensure compliance with labor standards in global supply chains.

Why is this important

Electric vehicle batteries rely on minerals like cobalt and lithium sourced internationally, where labor exploitation has been documented. This bill addresses concerns that state procurement dollars could indirectly support unethical labor practices while promoting EV adoption. It attempts to align environmental policy with labor rights protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Supply chain verification burden: Determining actual labor practices across complex international supply chains is technically difficult and expensive, potentially limiting available suppliers or increasing costs for state agencies
  • Market impact on EV adoption: Stricter procurement standards could reduce EV purchasing options or increase vehicle costs, potentially slowing Virginia's transition away from fossil fuels
  • Enforcement mechanisms unclear: The bill's language regarding "forced and child labor prohibition" may lack clear enforcement procedures, inspection standards, or penalties for non-compliance

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

Sign in to ask a question.