A. Out of this appropriation, $350,000 the first year from the general fund is designated to evaluate the need for a regional Data Science Innovation Hub by higher education research institutions in the Hampton Roads and Tidewater area.

B. The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia shall convene a workgroup comprised of the College of William and Mary in Virginia, Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, Christopher Newport University and Jefferson Labs for the expressed purpose of assessing need and, potentially, developing a plan for a Data Science Innovation Hub and the possible roles for the specific institutions.

C. The Director, Department of Planning and Budget shall transfer from this item, $350,000 the first year from the general fund to the Council for costs associated with this planning.