Washington – The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) is urging Virginia lawmakers to reconsider aspects of HB 2462, which could introduce unintended consequences for digital services, free expression, and online platforms. While CCIA recognizes the importance of addressing concerns over the unauthorized use of voice, likeness, and digital replicas, the bill’s broad language raises constitutional concerns, conflicts with existing state and federal law, and creates legal uncertainty for businesses and consumers alike.
The bill’s vague definition of digital replicas creates legal risks for a wide range of online content, including AI-generated media, artistic expression, and journalistic reporting. Additionally, its liability provisions extend far beyond bad actors, potentially holding platforms and service providers accountable for content generated by individual users, even when those platforms or providers have no knowledge of or involvement in its creation.
CCIA is calling on lawmakers to send HB 2462 to the Virginia Joint Commission on Technology and Science for further study during the 2025 interim. This prudent step would allow for careful evaluation of the bill’s potential impact on innovation, First Amendment-protected content, and online platforms.
The following statement can be attributed to Megan Stokes, State Policy Director for CCIA:
“Virginia policymakers must strike a careful balance between protecting individuals from harmful digital impersonation and making sure innovation, free expression, and responsible online services are not stifled. While HB 2462 is well-intended, its current wording creates significant legal uncertainty that puts service providers and legitimate content creators at risk of unnecessary liability. We urge lawmakers to refine the bill to ensure that it targets truly harmful actors without sweeping in lawful and protected digital content.”
