{"formats":[{"name":"JSON","format":"json","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-json\/44-146.18_6.json"},{"name":"Plain Text","format":"text","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-text\/44-146.18_6.txt"},{"name":"XML","format":"xml","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-xml\/44-146.18_6.xml"},{"name":"HTML","format":"html","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-html\/44-146.18_6.html"}],"law_id":63764,"edition_id":1,"section_id":63764,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:6","catch_line":"Geographic Information Network Division established; powers and duties; Division Coordinator","history":"2020, c. 423.","full_text":"A\n\nAs used in this section, unless the context requires a different meaning:\n\t\t\t&#8220;Base map data&#8221; means the digitized common geographic data that is used by most geographic information systems applications to reference or link attribute or other geographic data.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Division&#8221; means the Geographic Information Network Division.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Geographic data&#8221; means data that contains either coordinates that reference a geographic location or area or attribute data that can be related to a geographic area or location.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Geographic information system (GIS)&#8221; means a computerized system that stores and links geographic data to allow a wide range of information processing and display operations, as well as map production, analysis, and modeling.B\n\nThere is established within the Department of Emergency Management a Geographic Information Network Division (the Division), which shall foster the creative utilization of geographic information and oversee the development of a catalog of GIS data available in the Commonwealth. The Division shall be headed by a Division Coordinator who shall be under the supervision of and report to the State Coordinator of Emergency Management.C\n\nThe powers and duties of the Division shall include:1\n\nRequesting the services, expertise, supplies, and facilities of the Department of Emergency Management from the State Coordinator of Emergency Management on issues concerning the Division;2\n\nAccepting grants from the United States government and agencies and instrumentalities thereof and any other source. To those ends, the Division shall have the power to comply with such conditions and execute such agreements as may be necessary or desirable;3\n\nFixing, altering, charging, and collecting rates, rentals, and other charges for the use or sale of products of, or services rendered by, the Division, at rates that reflect the fair market value;4\n\nSoliciting, receiving, and considering proposals for funding projects or initiatives from any state or federal agency, local or regional government, public institution of higher education, nonprofit organization, or private person or corporation;5\n\nSoliciting and accepting funds, goods, and in-kind services that are part of any accepted project proposal;6\n\nEstablishing ad hoc committees or project teams to investigate related technology or technical issues and providing results and recommendations for Division action; and7\n\nEstablishing such bureaus, sections, or units as the Division deems appropriate to carry out its powers and duties.D\n\nThe Division Coordinator shall:1\n\nOversee the development of and recommend to the Department of Emergency Management the development of those policies, standards, and guidelines required to support state and local government exchange, acquisition, storage, use, sharing, and distribution of geographic or base map data and related technologies;2\n\nFoster the development of a coordinated comprehensive system for providing ready access to electronic state government geographic data products for individuals, businesses, and other entities;3\n\nInitiate and manage projects or conduct procurement activities relating to the development or acquisition of geographic data or statewide base map data or both;4\n\nPlan for and coordinate the development or procurement of priority geographic base map data;5\n\nDevelop, maintain, and provide, in the most cost-effective manner, access to the catalog of Virginia geographic data and governmental geographic data users;6\n\nProvide, upon request, advice and guidance on all agreements and contracts from all branches of state government for geographic data acquisition and design and the installation and maintenance of geographic information systems;7\n\nCompile a data catalog consisting of descriptions of GIS coverages maintained by individual executive branch and local government agencies. Nothing in this article shall be construed to require that GIS data be physically delivered to the Division. All executive branch agencies that maintain GIS databases shall report to the Division the details of the data that they develop, acquire, and maintain. Each agency shall submit quarterly reports to the Division specifying all updates to existing data as well as all data development and acquisition currently in progress. Data exempt from the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (&#xA7; 2.2-3700 et seq.) need not be reported to the Division;8\n\nIdentify and collect information and technical requirements to assist the Division in setting priorities for the development of state digital geographic data and base maps that meet the needs of state agencies, institutions of higher education, and local governments;9\n\nProvide services, geographic data products, and access to the repository at rates established by the Division; and10\n\nEnsure the compliance of those policies, standards, and guidelines developed by VITA required to support and govern the security of state and local government exchange, acquisition, storage, use, sharing, and distribution of geographic or base map data and related technologies.","order_by":null,"text":{"0":{"id":232296,"text":"As used in this section, unless the context requires a different meaning:\n\t\t\t&#8220;Base map data&#8221; means the digitized common geographic data that is used by most geographic information systems applications to reference or link attribute or other geographic data.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Division&#8221; means the Geographic Information Network Division.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Geographic data&#8221; means data that contains either coordinates that reference a geographic location or area or attribute data that can be related to a geographic area or location.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Geographic information system (GIS)&#8221; means a computerized system that stores and links geographic data to allow a wide range of information processing and display operations, as well as map production, analysis, and modeling.","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"next_prefix":"B"},"1":{"id":232297,"text":"There is established within the Department of Emergency Management a Geographic Information Network Division (the Division), which shall foster the creative utilization of geographic information and oversee the development of a catalog of GIS data available in the Commonwealth. The Division shall be headed by a Division Coordinator who shall be under the supervision of and report to the State Coordinator of Emergency Management.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"C"},"2":{"id":232298,"text":"The powers and duties of the Division shall include:","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"C1"},"3":{"id":232299,"text":"Requesting the services, expertise, supplies, and facilities of the Department of Emergency Management from the State Coordinator of Emergency Management on issues concerning the Division;","type":"section","prefixes":["C","1"],"prefix":"1","entire_prefix":"C1","prefix_anchor":"C1","level":2,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"C2"},"4":{"id":232300,"text":"Accepting grants from the United States government and agencies and instrumentalities thereof and any other source. To those ends, the Division shall have the power to comply with such conditions and execute such agreements as may be necessary or desirable;","type":"section","prefixes":["C","2"],"prefix":"2","entire_prefix":"C2","prefix_anchor":"C2","level":2,"prior_prefix":"C1","next_prefix":"C3"},"5":{"id":232301,"text":"Fixing, altering, charging, and collecting rates, rentals, and other charges for the use or sale of products of, or services rendered by, the Division, at rates that reflect the fair market value;","type":"section","prefixes":["C","3"],"prefix":"3","entire_prefix":"C3","prefix_anchor":"C3","level":2,"prior_prefix":"C2","next_prefix":"C4"},"6":{"id":232302,"text":"Soliciting, receiving, and considering proposals for funding projects or initiatives from any state or federal agency, local or regional government, public institution of higher education, nonprofit organization, or private person or corporation;","type":"section","prefixes":["C","4"],"prefix":"4","entire_prefix":"C4","prefix_anchor":"C4","level":2,"prior_prefix":"C3","next_prefix":"C5"},"7":{"id":232303,"text":"Soliciting and accepting funds, goods, and in-kind services that are part of any accepted project proposal;","type":"section","prefixes":["C","5"],"prefix":"5","entire_prefix":"C5","prefix_anchor":"C5","level":2,"prior_prefix":"C4","next_prefix":"C6"},"8":{"id":232304,"text":"Establishing ad hoc committees or project teams to investigate related technology or technical issues and providing results and recommendations for Division action; and","type":"section","prefixes":["C","6"],"prefix":"6","entire_prefix":"C6","prefix_anchor":"C6","level":2,"prior_prefix":"C5","next_prefix":"C7"},"9":{"id":232305,"text":"Establishing such bureaus, sections, or units as the Division deems appropriate to carry out its powers and duties.","type":"section","prefixes":["C","7"],"prefix":"7","entire_prefix":"C7","prefix_anchor":"C7","level":2,"prior_prefix":"C6","next_prefix":"D"},"10":{"id":232306,"text":"The Division Coordinator shall:","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C7","next_prefix":"D1"},"11":{"id":232307,"text":"Oversee the development of and recommend to the Department of Emergency Management the development of those policies, standards, and guidelines required to support state and local government exchange, acquisition, storage, use, sharing, and distribution of geographic or base map data and related technologies;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","1"],"prefix":"1","entire_prefix":"D1","prefix_anchor":"D1","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D","next_prefix":"D2"},"12":{"id":232308,"text":"Foster the development of a coordinated comprehensive system for providing ready access to electronic state government geographic data products for individuals, businesses, and other entities;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","2"],"prefix":"2","entire_prefix":"D2","prefix_anchor":"D2","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D1","next_prefix":"D3"},"13":{"id":232309,"text":"Initiate and manage projects or conduct procurement activities relating to the development or acquisition of geographic data or statewide base map data or both;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","3"],"prefix":"3","entire_prefix":"D3","prefix_anchor":"D3","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D2","next_prefix":"D4"},"14":{"id":232310,"text":"Plan for and coordinate the development or procurement of priority geographic base map data;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","4"],"prefix":"4","entire_prefix":"D4","prefix_anchor":"D4","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D3","next_prefix":"D5"},"15":{"id":232311,"text":"Develop, maintain, and provide, in the most cost-effective manner, access to the catalog of Virginia geographic data and governmental geographic data users;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","5"],"prefix":"5","entire_prefix":"D5","prefix_anchor":"D5","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D4","next_prefix":"D6"},"16":{"id":232312,"text":"Provide, upon request, advice and guidance on all agreements and contracts from all branches of state government for geographic data acquisition and design and the installation and maintenance of geographic information systems;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","6"],"prefix":"6","entire_prefix":"D6","prefix_anchor":"D6","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D5","next_prefix":"D7"},"17":{"id":232313,"text":"Compile a data catalog consisting of descriptions of GIS coverages maintained by individual executive branch and local government agencies. Nothing in this article shall be construed to require that GIS data be physically delivered to the Division. All executive branch agencies that maintain GIS databases shall report to the Division the details of the data that they develop, acquire, and maintain. Each agency shall submit quarterly reports to the Division specifying all updates to existing data as well as all data development and acquisition currently in progress. Data exempt from the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (&#xA7; 2.2-3700 et seq.) need not be reported to the Division;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","7"],"prefix":"7","entire_prefix":"D7","prefix_anchor":"D7","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D6","next_prefix":"D8"},"18":{"id":232314,"text":"Identify and collect information and technical requirements to assist the Division in setting priorities for the development of state digital geographic data and base maps that meet the needs of state agencies, institutions of higher education, and local governments;","type":"section","prefixes":["D","8"],"prefix":"8","entire_prefix":"D8","prefix_anchor":"D8","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D7","next_prefix":"D9"},"19":{"id":232315,"text":"Provide services, geographic data products, and access to the repository at rates established by the Division; and","type":"section","prefixes":["D","9"],"prefix":"9","entire_prefix":"D9","prefix_anchor":"D9","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D8","next_prefix":"D10"},"20":{"id":232316,"text":"Ensure the compliance of those policies, standards, and guidelines developed by VITA required to support and govern the security of state and local government exchange, acquisition, storage, use, sharing, and distribution of geographic or base map data and related technologies.","type":"section","prefixes":["D","10"],"prefix":"10","entire_prefix":"D10","prefix_anchor":"D10","level":2,"prior_prefix":"D9"}},"ancestry":[{"id":14302,"edition_id":1,"name":"Emergency Services and Disaster Law","identifier":"3.2","label":"chapter","depth":2,"order_by":1,"parent_id":13446,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:47:39","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:47:39","permalink":{"id":222283,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":14302,"identifier":"3.2","token":"44\/3.2","url":"\/44\/3.2\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":13446,"edition_id":1,"name":"Military and Emergency Laws","identifier":"44","label":"title","depth":1,"order_by":1,"parent_id":null,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:44:54","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:44:54","permalink":{"id":221549,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":13446,"identifier":"44","token":"44","url":"\/44\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}}],"structure_contents":[{"id":83808,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.13","catch_line":"Short title","url":"\/44-146.13\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.13","metadata":false},{"id":65115,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.14","catch_line":"Findings of General Assembly","url":"\/44-146.14\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.14","metadata":false},{"id":56507,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.15","catch_line":"Construction of chapter","url":"\/44-146.15\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.15","metadata":false},{"id":65984,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.16","catch_line":"Definitions","url":"\/44-146.16\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.16","metadata":false},{"id":78828,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.17","catch_line":"Powers and duties of Governor","url":"\/44-146.17\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.17","metadata":false},{"id":73003,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.17:1","catch_line":"Transmittal to General Assembly of rules, regulations, and orders","url":"\/44-146.17_1\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.17_1","metadata":false},{"id":62120,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.17:1.1","catch_line":"Certain emergency orders; additional requirements","url":"\/44-146.17_1.1\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.17_1.1","metadata":false},{"id":74379,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.17:2","catch_line":"Annual statewide drill","url":"\/44-146.17_2\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.17_2","metadata":false},{"id":55576,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18","catch_line":"Department of Emergency Management; administration and operational control; coordinator and other personnel; powers and duties","url":"\/44-146.18\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18","metadata":false},{"id":70134,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:1","catch_line":"Virginia Disaster Response Funds disbursements; reimbursements","url":"\/44-146.18_1\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_1","metadata":false},{"id":71648,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:2","catch_line":"Authority of Coordinator of Emergency Management in undeclared emergency","url":"\/44-146.18_2\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_2","metadata":false},{"id":69158,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:3","catch_line":"First informer broadcasters; coordination with Department of Emergency Management","url":"\/44-146.18_3\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_3","metadata":false},{"id":84404,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:4","catch_line":"State Coordinator of Emergency Management responsible for annual Virginia Comprehensive Emergency Management Report","url":"\/44-146.18_4\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_4","metadata":false},{"id":59542,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:5","catch_line":"Division of Public Safety Communications established; appointment of Virginia Public Safety Communications Coordinator; duties of Division","url":"\/44-146.18_5\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_5","metadata":false},{"id":63764,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:6","catch_line":"Geographic Information Network Division established; powers and duties; Division Coordinator","url":"\/44-146.18_6\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_6","metadata":false},{"id":70812,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:7","catch_line":"GIS Fund created","url":"\/44-146.18_7\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_7","metadata":false},{"id":55832,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:8","catch_line":"Additional powers and duties of the State Coordinator of Emergency Management","url":"\/44-146.18_8\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_8","metadata":false},{"id":86221,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:9","catch_line":"Nonstock corporation to assist in the development of GIS data","url":"\/44-146.18_9\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_9","metadata":false},{"id":85193,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.19","catch_line":"Powers and duties of political subdivisions","url":"\/44-146.19\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.19","metadata":false},{"id":78856,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.20","catch_line":"Joint action by political subdivisions","url":"\/44-146.20\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.20","metadata":false},{"id":67566,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.21","catch_line":"Declaration of local emergency","url":"\/44-146.21\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.21","metadata":false},{"id":70539,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.22","catch_line":"Development of measures to prevent or reduce harmful consequences of disasters; disclosure of information","url":"\/44-146.22\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.22","metadata":false},{"id":76000,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.23","catch_line":"Immunity from liability","url":"\/44-146.23\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.23","metadata":false},{"id":62719,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.24","catch_line":"Cooperation of public agencies","url":"\/44-146.24\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.24","metadata":false},{"id":67520,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.25","catch_line":"Repealed","url":"\/44-146.25\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.25","metadata":false},{"id":76909,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.26","catch_line":"Duties of emergency management organizations","url":"\/44-146.26\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.26","metadata":false},{"id":75520,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.27","catch_line":"Supplementing federal funds; assistance of federal agencies; acceptance of gifts and services; appropriations by local governing bodies","url":"\/44-146.27\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.27","metadata":false},{"id":75418,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.28","catch_line":"Authority of Governor and agencies under his control in declared state of emergency","url":"\/44-146.28\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.28","metadata":false},{"id":83794,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.28:1","catch_line":"Compact enacted into law; terms","url":"\/44-146.28_1\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.28_1","metadata":false},{"id":86962,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.28:2","catch_line":"Disaster relief assistance by out-of-state businesses and employees","url":"\/44-146.28_2\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.28_2","metadata":false},{"id":66386,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.29","catch_line":"Expired","url":"\/44-146.29\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.29","metadata":false},{"id":72455,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.29:1","catch_line":"Expired","url":"\/44-146.29_1\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.29_1","metadata":false},{"id":70917,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.29:3","catch_line":"Emergency Shelters Upgrade Assistance Grant Fund","url":"\/44-146.29_3\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.29_3","metadata":false},{"id":84353,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.29:4","catch_line":"Disconnection suspension for certain utilities","url":"\/44-146.29_4\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.29_4","metadata":false}],"previous_section":{"id":59542,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:5","catch_line":"Division of Public Safety Communications established; appointment of Virginia Public Safety Communications Coordinator; duties of Division","url":"\/44-146.18_5\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_5","metadata":false},"next_section":{"id":70812,"structure_id":14302,"section_number":"44-146.18:7","catch_line":"GIS Fund created","url":"\/44-146.18_7\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_7","metadata":false},"metadata":false,"official_url":"https:\/\/law.lis.virginia.gov\/vacode\/44-146.18:6\/","history_text":"<p>This law was first created in 2020. The record of its establishment is cataloged in chapter <a href=\"https:\/\/legacylis.virginia.gov\/cgi-bin\/legp604.exe?201+ful+CHAP0423\">423<\/a> of that year\u2019s edition of \u201cActs of Assembly,\u201d the annual state publication listing all changes made to the Code of Virginia in that year.<\/p>","references":[{"id":70812,"section_number":"44-146.18:7","catch_line":"GIS Fund created","order_by":null,"url":"\/44-146.18_7\/"},{"id":55832,"section_number":"44-146.18:8","catch_line":"Additional powers and duties of the State Coordinator of Emergency Management","order_by":null,"url":"\/44-146.18_8\/"}],"refers_to":[{"id":55569,"section_number":"2.2-3700","catch_line":"Short title; policy","order_by":null,"url":"\/2.2-3700\/"}],"permalink":{"id":222341,"object_type":"law","relational_id":63764,"identifier":"44-146.18:6","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_6","url":"\/44-146.18_6\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1},"url":"\/44-146.18_6\/","token":"44\/3.2\/44-146.18_6","dublin_core":{"Title":"Geographic Information Network Division established; powers and duties; Division Coordinator","Type":"Text","Format":"text\/html","Identifier":"\u00a7 44-146.18:6","Relation":"Code of Virginia"},"html":"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"A\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">A.<\/span> As used in this section, unless the context requires a different meaning:\n\t\t\t&#8220;<span class=\"dictionary\">Base map data<\/span>&#8221; means the digitized common <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> that is used by most geographic information systems applications to reference or link attribute or other <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span>.\n\t\t\t&#8220;<span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>&#8221; means the Geographic Information Network <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>.\n\t\t\t&#8220;<span class=\"dictionary\">Geographic data<\/span>&#8221; means data that contains either coordinates that reference a geographic location or area or attribute data that can be related to a geographic area or location.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Geographic information system (GIS)&#8221; means a computerized system that stores and links <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> to allow a wide range of information processing and display operations, as well as map production, analysis, and modeling. <a id=\"paragraph-232296\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#A\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"B\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">B.<\/span> There is established within the Department of <span class=\"dictionary\">Emergency<\/span> Management a Geographic Information Network <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> (the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>), which shall foster the creative utilization of geographic information and oversee the development of a catalog of GIS data available in the Commonwealth. The <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> shall be headed by a <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> Coordinator who shall be under the supervision of and report to the State Coordinator of <span class=\"dictionary\">Emergency<\/span> Management. <a id=\"paragraph-232297\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#B\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">C.<\/span> The powers and duties of the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> shall include: <a id=\"paragraph-232298\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C1\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">1.<\/span> Requesting the services, expertise, supplies, and facilities of the Department of <span class=\"dictionary\">Emergency<\/span> Management from the State Coordinator of <span class=\"dictionary\">Emergency<\/span> Management on <span class=\"dictionary\">issues<\/span> concerning the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>; <a id=\"paragraph-232299\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C1\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C2\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">2.<\/span> Accepting grants from the United States government and agencies and instrumentalities thereof and any other source. To those ends, the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> shall have the power to comply with such conditions and execute such agreements as may be necessary or desirable; <a id=\"paragraph-232300\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C2\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C3\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">3.<\/span> Fixing, altering, charging, and collecting rates, rentals, and other charges for the use or sale of products of, or services rendered by, the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>, at rates that reflect the fair market value; <a id=\"paragraph-232301\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C3\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C4\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">4.<\/span> Soliciting, receiving, and considering proposals for funding projects or initiatives from any state or federal agency, local or regional government, public institution of higher education, nonprofit organization, or private person or corporation; <a id=\"paragraph-232302\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C4\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C5\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">5.<\/span> Soliciting and accepting funds, goods, and in-kind services that are part of any accepted project proposal; <a id=\"paragraph-232303\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C5\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C6\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">6.<\/span> Establishing ad hoc committees or project teams to investigate related technology or technical <span class=\"dictionary\">issues<\/span> and providing results and recommendations for <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> action; and <a id=\"paragraph-232304\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C6\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"C7\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">7.<\/span> Establishing such bureaus, sections, or units as the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> deems appropriate to carry out its powers and duties. <a id=\"paragraph-232305\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#C7\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">D.<\/span> The <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> Coordinator shall: <a id=\"paragraph-232306\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D1\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">1.<\/span> Oversee the development of and recommend to the Department of <span class=\"dictionary\">Emergency<\/span> Management the development of those policies, standards, and guidelines required to support state and local government exchange, acquisition, storage, use, sharing, and distribution of geographic or <span class=\"dictionary\">base map data<\/span> and related technologies; <a id=\"paragraph-232307\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D1\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D2\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">2.<\/span> Foster the development of a coordinated comprehensive system for providing ready access to electronic state government <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> products for <span class=\"dictionary\">individuals<\/span>, businesses, and other entities; <a id=\"paragraph-232308\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D2\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D3\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">3.<\/span> Initiate and manage projects or conduct procurement activities relating to the development or acquisition of <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> or statewide <span class=\"dictionary\">base map data<\/span> or both; <a id=\"paragraph-232309\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D3\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D4\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">4.<\/span> Plan for and coordinate the development or procurement of priority geographic <span class=\"dictionary\">base map data<\/span>; <a id=\"paragraph-232310\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D4\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D5\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">5.<\/span> Develop, maintain, and provide, in the most cost-effective manner, access to the catalog of Virginia <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> and governmental <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> users; <a id=\"paragraph-232311\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D5\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D6\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">6.<\/span> Provide, upon request, advice and guidance on all agreements and <span class=\"dictionary\">contracts<\/span> from all branches of state government for <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> acquisition and design and the installation and maintenance of geographic information systems; <a id=\"paragraph-232312\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D6\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D7\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">7.<\/span> Compile a data catalog consisting of descriptions of GIS coverages maintained by <span class=\"dictionary\">individual<\/span> executive branch and local government agencies. Nothing in this article shall be construed to require that GIS data be physically delivered to the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>. All executive branch agencies that maintain GIS databases shall report to the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> the details of the data that they develop, acquire, and maintain. Each agency shall submit quarterly reports to the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> specifying all updates to existing data as well as all data development and acquisition currently in progress. Data exempt from the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (&#xA7; <a class=\"law\" title=\"Short title; policy\" href=\"\/2.2-3700\/\">2.2-3700<\/a> et seq.) need not be reported to the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>; <a id=\"paragraph-232313\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D7\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D8\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">8.<\/span> Identify and collect information and technical requirements to assist the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span> in setting priorities for the development of state digital <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> and base maps that meet the needs of state agencies, institutions of higher education, and local governments; <a id=\"paragraph-232314\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D8\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D9\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">9.<\/span> Provide services, <span class=\"dictionary\">geographic data<\/span> products, and access to the repository at rates established by the <span class=\"dictionary\">Division<\/span>; and <a id=\"paragraph-232315\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D9\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section id=\"D10\" class=\"indent-1\"><p><span class=\"prefix-number\">10.<\/span> Ensure the compliance of those policies, standards, and guidelines developed by VITA required to support and govern the security of state and local government exchange, acquisition, storage, use, sharing, and distribution of geographic or <span class=\"dictionary\">base map data<\/span> and related technologies. <a id=\"paragraph-232316\" class=\"section-permalink\" href=\"https:\/\/vacode.org\/44-146.18_6\/#D10\"><i class=\"fa fa-link\"><\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>","plain_text":"                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA\n\nGEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION NETWORK DIVISION ESTABLISHED; POWERS AND DUTIES; DIVISION\nCOORDINATOR (\u00a7 44-146.18:6)\n\nA. As used in this section, unless the context requires a different meaning:\n\t\t\t&#8220;Base map data&#8221; means the digitized common geographic data that\nis used by most geographic information systems applications to reference or link\nattribute or other geographic data.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Division&#8221; means the Geographic Information Network Division.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Geographic data&#8221; means data that contains either coordinates\nthat reference a geographic location or area or attribute data that can be\nrelated to a geographic area or location.\n\t\t\t&#8220;Geographic information system (GIS)&#8221; means a computerized system\nthat stores and links geographic data to allow a wide range of information\nprocessing and display operations, as well as map production, analysis, and\nmodeling.\n\nB. There is established within the Department of Emergency Management a\nGeographic Information Network Division (the Division), which shall foster the\ncreative utilization of geographic information and oversee the development of a\ncatalog of GIS data available in the Commonwealth. The Division shall be headed\nby a Division Coordinator who shall be under the supervision of and report to\nthe State Coordinator of Emergency Management.\n\nC. The powers and duties of the Division shall include:\n\n   1. Requesting the services, expertise, supplies, and facilities of the\n   Department of Emergency Management from the State Coordinator of Emergency\n   Management on issues concerning the Division;\n\n   2. Accepting grants from the United States government and agencies and\n   instrumentalities thereof and any other source. To those ends, the Division\n   shall have the power to comply with such conditions and execute such\n   agreements as may be necessary or desirable;\n\n   3. Fixing, altering, charging, and collecting rates, rentals, and other\n   charges for the use or sale of products of, or services rendered by, the\n   Division, at rates that reflect the fair market value;\n\n   4. Soliciting, receiving, and considering proposals for funding projects or\n   initiatives from any state or federal agency, local or regional government,\n   public institution of higher education, nonprofit organization, or private\n   person or corporation;\n\n   5. Soliciting and accepting funds, goods, and in-kind services that are part\n   of any accepted project proposal;\n\n   6. Establishing ad hoc committees or project teams to investigate related\n   technology or technical issues and providing results and recommendations for\n   Division action; and\n\n   7. Establishing such bureaus, sections, or units as the Division deems\n   appropriate to carry out its powers and duties.\n\nD. The Division Coordinator shall:\n\n   1. Oversee the development of and recommend to the Department of Emergency\n   Management the development of those policies, standards, and guidelines\n   required to support state and local government exchange, acquisition, storage,\n   use, sharing, and distribution of geographic or base map data and related\n   technologies;\n\n   2. Foster the development of a coordinated comprehensive system for providing\n   ready access to electronic state government geographic data products for\n   individuals, businesses, and other entities;\n\n   3. Initiate and manage projects or conduct procurement activities relating to\n   the development or acquisition of geographic data or statewide base map data\n   or both;\n\n   4. Plan for and coordinate the development or procurement of priority\n   geographic base map data;\n\n   5. Develop, maintain, and provide, in the most cost-effective manner, access\n   to the catalog of Virginia geographic data and governmental geographic data\n   users;\n\n   6. Provide, upon request, advice and guidance on all agreements and contracts\n   from all branches of state government for geographic data acquisition and\n   design and the installation and maintenance of geographic information systems;\n\n   7. Compile a data catalog consisting of descriptions of GIS coverages\n   maintained by individual executive branch and local government agencies.\n   Nothing in this article shall be construed to require that GIS data be\n   physically delivered to the Division. All executive branch agencies that\n   maintain GIS databases shall report to the Division the details of the data\n   that they develop, acquire, and maintain. Each agency shall submit quarterly\n   reports to the Division specifying all updates to existing data as well as all\n   data development and acquisition currently in progress. Data exempt from the\n   Virginia Freedom of Information Act (&#xA7; 2.2-3700 et seq.) need not be\n   reported to the Division;\n\n   8. Identify and collect information and technical requirements to assist the\n   Division in setting priorities for the development of state digital geographic\n   data and base maps that meet the needs of state agencies, institutions of\n   higher education, and local governments;\n\n   9. Provide services, geographic data products, and access to the repository at\n   rates established by the Division; and\n\n   10. Ensure the compliance of those policies, standards, and guidelines\n   developed by VITA required to support and govern the security of state and\n   local government exchange, acquisition, storage, use, sharing, and\n   distribution of geographic or base map data and related technologies.\n\nHISTORY: 2020, c. 423.","edition":{"id":1,"name":"2025","slug":"2025","date_created":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","date_modified":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","current":1,"order_by":1,"last_import":null}}