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Panel advances bill expanding internet‑safety instruction to address modern online harms
Summary
HB 171 would update required internet‑safety instruction to include addictive algorithms, cyberbullying and AI‑generated harms; supporters said it modernizes curriculum, while some commenters warned about definitions of 'misinformation.' The subcommittee reported the bill 9‑1.
An unidentified patron in the transcript (referred to as "Delegate ask you") introduced House Bill 171 to expand and modernize internet‑safety instruction in schools. The bill would require age‑appropriate instruction on topics such as addictive social‑media feeds, privacy and data‑sharing risks, AI‑generated harms and reporting mechanisms for harassment.
Meg Gruber of the Virginia Education Association and Lauren Klute of the Virginia PTA testified in favor, saying the instruction would help students and families navigate new digital risks. Opponent Anne Tatus raised concerns about the bill’s reference to "misinformation," asking who decides what counts as misinformation and urging caution about exposing children to certain topics. Supporters argued the bill updates existing material to address new threats.
The subcommittee reported the bill, 9‑1.
