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Bill > HB2299


VA HB2299

Computer trespass; Class 6 felony when committed against elementary and secondary schools, etc.


summary

Introduced
01/08/2025
In Committee
01/08/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
02/22/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Computer trespass; elementary and secondary schools; school board; penalty. Makes it a Class 6 felony for the offense of computer trespass when such offense is committed against any public, private, or religious elementary or secondary school or any school board.

AI Summary

This bill amends Virginia's computer trespass law to create a Class 6 felony when computer trespass is committed against public, private, or religious elementary or secondary schools or school boards. Currently, computer trespass is generally a Class 1 misdemeanor, but the bill expands the circumstances under which it becomes a felony. The law defines computer trespass broadly, including actions such as disabling computer data, causing computer malfunctions, altering software, creating unauthorized copies, installing keylogging software, or taking control of another's computer with malicious intent. The bill specifically adds schools and school boards to the list of entities (which already includes government and utility service providers) where unauthorized computer access can result in a more serious felony charge. This change aims to provide stronger legal protection for educational institutions against cybercrime, recognizing the potential vulnerability and importance of school computer systems. The bill does not require additional state funding, though it may increase periods of imprisonment for those convicted under the expanded felony provisions.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (5)

Last Action

Left in Courts of Justice (on 02/04/2025)

bill text


bill summary

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bill summary

Document Type Source Location
State Bill Page https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2299
Fiscal Note/Analysis - Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB2299) https://lis.blob.core.windows.net/files/1029180.PDF
Fiscal Note/Analysis - Impact statement from VCSC (HB2299) https://lis.blob.core.windows.net/files/1017352.PDF
BillText https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2299/text/HB2299
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