SB 70
Protecting state and local government systems and data from foreign entities
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
Senate Bill 70 aims to safeguard West Virginia’s state and local government systems and data from potential cyberattacks and surveillance by foreign adversaries. The bill prohibits the use of software, applications, and artificial intelligence tools owned by entities located in designated foreign countries of concern. It primarily restricts state agency officials, employees, and contractors from utilizing these technologies on state-owned devices and accessing related platforms. A limited waiver process is included for law enforcement personnel.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘state agency’ and ‘foreign country of concern’ based on U.S. Department of Commerce regulations.
- Prohibits state agencies from using software, applications, or AI tools owned by entities in designated foreign countries.
- Restricts access to social media platforms owned by entities in designated foreign countries.
- Exempts law enforcement officers from the restrictions for official law enforcement activities.
- Allows for written waivers from the Secretary of State for limited use by state agency personnel.
- Applies prohibitions to state-owned and state-leased devices.
- Specifies that the bill does not apply to law enforcement activities.
Who is affected
- State agencies
- State agency officials
- State agency employees
- State agency contractors
- West Virginia residents (through protection of government data)
Notable changes
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