VA HB797: Artificial intelligence; framework for person/entity acting as an independent verification org.

In one paragraph

Virginia's HB 797 directs the Joint Commission on Technology and Science (JCOTS) to study whether to create a framework for independent verification organizations that would assess whether AI models or applications follow best-practice standards for preventing personal injury and property damage. JCOTS weighs the risks of AI deployed in Virginia, measurable risk metrics, existing mitigation standards, other states' approaches and the fiscal impact; if it recommends a framework, it also studies licensing such organizations. Report due November 1, 2026. Identical to SB 384; effective July 1, 2026.

Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.

What it means for business

No duties for businesses. A legislative study, due November 1, 2026, of whether Virginia should create a framework for private independent organizations that check AI models' and applications' safety practices, and if so whether to license them.

Key provisions

1. 1JCOTS evaluates the feasibility and impact of a framework for persons or entities seeking to act as independent verification organizations that assess AI models' or applications' adherence to standards reflecting best practices for preventing personal injury and property damage
2. 2Factors: the nature and size of risks from AI deployed in Virginia, measurable risk metrics, existing technical and operational mitigation standards for developers and deployers, how their efficacy is evaluated, other states' practices, and the fiscal impact
3. 3If JCOTS recommends a framework, it further evaluates a licensing scheme for independent verification organizations and whether VITA or another state agency could run it
4. 4Report with recommendations to the Chairs of the Senate Finance and Appropriations and General Laws and Technology Committees and the House Appropriations and Communications, Technology and Innovation Committees by November 1, 2026
5. 5Approved by the Governor April 8, 2026 (Chapter 425; identical to SB 384, Chapter 426); effective July 1, 2026

Latest legislative action

Apr 8, 2026. Approved by Governor-Chapter 425 (effective 7/1/2026)

Sponsors (showing 5 of 15)

Roll call votes (showing 3 of 10)

Related and companion bills

• Virginia SB384Artificial intelligence; framework for person/entity acting as an independent verification org.