Senate committee backs voluntary AI verification framework; refers IVO licensing substitute to Finance

The committee advanced SB384, a substitute to create a voluntary framework for Independent Verification Organizations (IVOs) that would assess artificial‑intelligence systems used in Virginia. Senator Williams Graves described the proposal as a voluntary, VITA‑licensed marketplace of third‑party assessors that could issue a trusted seal for AI products that meet state safety standards.

Dave Barmore of Fathom told the committee the IVO model gives the state high‑level safety goals while allowing subject‑matter experts to develop technical criteria and evaluate AI systems. “Products that meet these standards earn a trusted seal of approval,” he said, adding that licensed IVOs would be subject to independence and conflict‑of‑interest safeguards.

TechNet testified in opposition on the grounds that the state‑level licensing regime could create a patchwork of standards across states and disproportionately burden small developers. Committee members discussed safeguards — including VITA oversight, public reporting and conflict‑of‑interest controls — and voted to refer the substitute to Finance with a recommendation to report.