HB 685 Virginia House of Delegates · 2026 Regular Session

Genetic sequencing; use of foreign genetic sequencing, etc.

Summary
Genetic sequencing; organ transplants; use of foreign genetic sequencing or genetic sequencer operational and research software; foreign storage of genetic sequencing data; health insurance coverage for certain foreign organ transplants; civil penalty. Prohibits medical care facilities from (i) using genetic sequencers or any operational and research software, as such terms are defined in the bill, produced in a country designated as a foreign adversary by the federal government and (ii) storing genetic sequencing data with a country designated as a foreign adversary by the federal government. The bill requires medical care facilities to certify their compliance with such provisions, under penalty of perjury, annually with the Commissioner of Health and subjects medical care facilities that violate such provisions to civil penalties. The bill also prohibits health insurance carriers from covering human organ transplants that occur in China or other designated foreign countries and subjects carriers that violate this provision to civil penalties.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Feb 3, 2026
Floor votes

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
6
Key actions
1
Committee
3
Feb 3, 2026
Lower · Passed
Subcommittee recommends passing by indefinitely (7-Y 3-N)
lower
Jan 21, 2026
Committee
Assigned sub: Health
lower
Jan 13, 2026
Committee
Referred to Committee on Health and Human Services
lower
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors