Action:
HB 1835 Amendment - Geology Transition from Certification to Licensure
Action 6966
General Information
| Action Summary |
The amendments to Chapter 40 of the Board for Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists regulations are adopted pursuant to HB1835 (2025 Acts of Assembly, Chapter 722). HB 1835 transitioned the existing voluntary certification program for geologists into a mandatory licensure program administered by the Board.
The existing regulation provides for (i) entry qualifications for certification as a certified professional geologist; (ii) renewal and reinstatement of certifications; and (iii) standards of practice and conduct for certified geologists. The regulatory change will amend the regulation to replace all references to “certification” in the current regulation with language reflecting “licensure.” All regulatory requirements for licensure remain substantively the same as the voluntary certification program. The action will also remove language that may permit the Board to refuse a license or certification based on “ethical character” in order to comply with a recent statutory change that prohibits regulatory boards from using ““vague or arbitrary terms” to refuse an occupational or professional license, certification, or registration. |
| Chapters Affected |
Only affects this chapter.
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| Executive Branch Review |
This action will go through the normal Executive Branch Review process.
|
| RIS Project |
Yes [8423] |
| Associated Mandates |
Geologists; regulation, licensure, penalty.
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| New Periodic Review |
This action will not be used to conduct a new periodic review.
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Stages
Stages associated with this regulatory action.
| Stage ID |
Stage Type |
Status |
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11112
|
Emergency/NOIRA
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Secretary of Labor review in progress. |
Contact Information
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Name / Title:
|
Kathleen R. Nosbisch
/
Executive Director
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Address:
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9960 Mayland Drive
Suite 400
Richmond, VA 23233
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Email Address:
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psswpg@dpor.virginia.gov
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Phone:
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(804)367-8514
FAX: (866)465-6206
TDD: ()-
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This person is the primary contact for this board.
