Virginia 2026 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HB1294

Filed/Introduced
8/7/26  
Introduced
1/15/26  

Caption

A BILL to amend and reenact § 19.2-11.14 of the Code of Virginia, relating to use of artificial intelligence-based tools; covered artificial intelligence; disclosure of use.

Impact

One of the bill’s core stipulations is that all major decisions concerning criminal proceedings, such as detentions, prosecutions, and sentencing, must involve a human decision-maker, effectively preventing the sidelining of human judgment in favor of automated recommendations. This creates a framework aiming to uphold accountability within law enforcement agencies and ensures that any AI-assisted decisions can be challenged in court. Furthermore, the law mandates that any AI-based contributions to reports be clearly identified, fostering greater accountability.

Summary

House Bill 1294 aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence-based tools within law enforcement in Virginia, amending section 19.2-11.14 of the Code of Virginia. The bill defines 'artificial intelligence-based tools' and 'covered artificial intelligence,' which includes a range of technologies like biometric identification, predictive policing, and forensic genealogy, among others. This legislation seeks to ensure transparency in how these tools are used in criminal investigations, requiring law enforcement to disclose their deployment in official police reports.

Contention

Despite its intentions for transparency and accountability, the bill may face scrutiny regarding its practicality and implications for law enforcement operations. Critics might argue that stringent requirements for disclosing AI use could hinder investigative processes or lead to delays in criminal investigations. Additionally, there may be concerns about the specific types of AI technologies allowed under this legislation, as debates about privacy, civil liberties, and the potential for misuse of such profound tools continue to evolve in the public discourse.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA HB1642

Artificial intelligence-based tool; definition, use of tool.

VA SB164

Virginia Consumer Protection Act; prohibited practices, artificial intelligence disclosure.

VA HB2250

Artificial Intelligence Training Data Transparency Act; transparency and disclosure requirements.

VA HB2094

High-risk artificial intelligence; definitions, development, deployment, and use, civil penalties.

VA HB747

Artificial Intelligence Developer Act; established, civil penalty.

VA HB2046

High-risk artificial intelligence; development, deployment, and use by public bodies, report.

VA SB1214

High-risk artificial intelligence; development, deployment, and use by public bodies, report.

VA SB1161

Artificial Intelligence Transparency Act; established.

VA HB2554

Artificial Intelligence Transparency Act; established.

VA SJR14

Artificial intelligence; Joint Commission on Technology and Science to study advancements.

Similar Bills

VA HB1294

A BILL to amend and reenact § 19.2-11.14 of the Code of Virginia, relating to use of artificial intelligence-based tools; covered artificial intelligence; disclosure of use.

VA HB747

Artificial Intelligence Developer Act; established, civil penalty.

VA HB2094

High-risk artificial intelligence; definitions, development, deployment, and use, civil penalties.

NJ A3307

Regulates artificial intelligence in news media industry; establishes "Artificial Intelligence In Communications Oversight Committee."

VA HB1295

Law enforcement; artificial intelligence inventory, civil action.

NJ A2710

Establishes "Authentic Relationships Act"; prohibits artificial intelligence relationship simulation.

VA HB1295

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Article 1 of Chapter 1 of Title 9.1 a section numbered 9.1-116.11, relating to law enforcement; artificial intelligence inventory; civil action.

NM HB141

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ACCOUNTABILITY ACT