Virginia's House Communications Subcommittee convened on February 17, 2025, to discuss a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at safeguarding consumer privacy by banning the sale of precise geolocation data. The proposed bill, identified as SB 10 23, seeks to align Virginia's privacy standards with those of Maryland's recently enacted Online Data Privacy Act of 2024, which comprehensively protects sensitive data.

The bill's primary sponsor highlighted the urgent need for such legislation, citing national security concerns. Reports indicated that sensitive location data was being sold, potentially compromising the safety of individuals working in national security and military facilities. The sponsor emphasized that while federal action on this issue remains uncertain, state-level intervention is both necessary and timely.

Supporters of the bill, including consumer advocacy groups, argue that the sale of geolocation data poses significant risks to individuals, including targeted advertising that exploits vulnerable populations. They contend that the legislation would not only protect consumer privacy but also prevent potential harms associated with data misuse, such as stalking and financial scams.

However, the bill faced opposition from tech industry representatives who argued that existing laws, such as the Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act, already address these concerns. They expressed confidence that the current framework sufficiently protects sensitive data, including geolocation information.

The subcommittee also discussed enforcement mechanisms, suggesting that the Attorney General's office would be responsible for prosecuting violations of the proposed law. This approach aims to ensure that consumers have recourse if their data is sold without consent.

As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the outcome of SB 10 23 could significantly impact consumer privacy rights in Virginia. The bill's proponents are optimistic about its potential to set a new standard for data protection, while opponents caution against overregulation. The subcommittee's decision on this legislation will be closely watched, as it could pave the way for broader privacy protections across the state.