Bill > HB797

Introduced Session

Virginia Information Technologies Agency; artificial intelligence; independent verification organizations. Creates a framework for any person or entity seeking to act as an independent verification organization (IVO) and receive a license in order to assess artificial intelligence systems' or applications' adherence to standards reflecting best practices for the prevention of personal injury and property damage to submit an application to the Virginia Information Technologies Agency (VITA). The bill provides that VITA may, but is not required to issue a license to such persons or entities seeking to act as an IVO within the Commonwealth. The bill also requires the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of VITA to establish and appoint members to the Artificial Intelligence Safety Advisory Council (the Council) for the purpose of advising and assisting VITA in licensing and auditing IVOs. The bill also provides civil immunity for the Commonwealth, VITA, the CIO, the Council, and their personnel for actions taken under the provisions of the bill, including licensing, oversight, and information-handling duties. The bill clarifies there is no liability for harms caused by artificial intelligence systems or applications that are or are not verified by an IVO and requires the Commonwealth to defend and indemnify Council members and VITA personnel for acts or omissions performed in good faith in the course and scope of their duties. The bill also provides that VITA may accept any gifts, donations, grants, bequests, or other private funds to effectuate the provisions of the bill.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

C.E. Hayes (D)*,  Bonita Anthony (D), 

Committee substitute printed 26108556D-S1 (on 02/26/2026)

Official Document