Regulatory Activity Forums (32)

Guidance Document Forums (52)

Technical Updates to TSS 96 Guidance Document

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Update Virginia Rider Training Program Policy and Procedures guidance document

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Amend DMV 141 guidance document to comply with HB 2221 (2025) and clarify the mandated court licensing ceremony requirement for minors.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Amend DMV 309 guidance document to comply with HB 2221 (2025) and clarify the mandated court licensing ceremony requirement for minors.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Policies and procedures for operating all vehicles owned by the Commonwealth, to ensure safe, reliable, and cost efficient use.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

The Guidelines for Notification and Reporting of Communicable Diseases explains the requirement to notify parents when children at a child day center have been exposed to a communicable disease listed in the Virginia Department of Health’s communicable disease chart; as well as the requirement to report all outbreaks to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) pursuant to 12VAC5-90-80 and 12VAC5-90-90 as referenced in the standards. The guidance document seeks to provide clear directions to providers on regulatory responsibilities related to notifying parents of their child’s exposure to diseases to ensure the safety and well-being of children in care and reporting to the local health department for the benefit of the community.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

The purpose of this transmittal is to provide a summary of the revised guidance for the Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP). Policy changes and clarifications in this transmittal fall under the following categories: • Attendance Tracking System Update – Revisions throughout the manual in response to the sunsetting of EPICC/VaECC and removal of associated terms, and guidance. Revisions note the 1 December 2025 implementation of Child Care Program Attendance and Schedule System (PASS) insert updated attendance tracking terms and guidance. • Policy and Process Clarifications – Edits to existing guidance to clarify expectations, provide additional examples, and address specific gaps in guidance. The table below summarizes key policy and process changes in each section of the manual, including whether the change was in response to a mandate from the General Assembly or a policy or process clarification. Note that revisions to wording for clarity, brevity, and consistency have been made throughout the manual and are not highlighted in this table if no other changes were made in a given section

8 Comments     Last comment: 8/12/26 4:23 pm     Closes: 8/26/26

Section §22.1-289.05 of the Code of Virginia directs the Board of Education to establish a unified quality rating and improvement system for all publicly funded early childhood providers in order to improve school readiness in the Commonwealth. “A. The Board shall establish a statewide unified public-private system for early childhood care and education in the Commonwealth to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enter kindergarten healthy and ready to learn. Such system shall be administered by the Board, the Superintendent, and the Department and shall be formed, implemented, and sustained through a structure that engages and leverages both state-level authority and regional-level public-private partnership assets.” “B. It is the intent of the General Assembly that the system established pursuant to subsection A shall (i) provide families with coordinated access for referral to early childhood education programs, (ii) provide families with easy-to-understand information about the quality of publicly funded early childhood care and education programs, (iii) establish expectations for the continuous improvement of early childhood care and education programs, and (iv) establish shared expectations for early childhood care and education programs among the Department of Education, the Department of Social Services, local school divisions, and state and regional stakeholders.” The Virginia Quality Birth to Five (VQB5) Guidelines were established in June 2021 and have been submitted to the Board of Education for review and approval annually. The review of the 2026-2027 VQB5 Guidelines mark the sixth time the Board has reviewed such guidelines. As in prior years, the 2026-2027 VQB5 Guidelines include the protocols and expectations for participation in VQB5, as well as the requirements for determining annual quality rating results so that families have clear and comparable information about publicly-funded early childhood options. These guidelines reflect the learnings and data gathered from previous years and continue to set forth the strategies in which all programs will be supported to continuously improve the quality of care and education for Virginia’s youngest learners to ensure all can enter school ready.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

The Standards of Learning (SOL) define what students are expected to learn at each grade level and course. High-quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) are curricula and educational materials that are aligned to standards and reflect evidence-based practices for teaching and learning. Standards and HQIM work together to fulfill the expectations defined by the Code of Virginia and the priorities set forth in the Board of Education’s Comprehensive Plan (2024-2029). The review and revision of Virginia’s Textbook and HQIM Process is aligned to Priority 1 of the Virginia Board of Education’s Comprehensive Plan, to set and help every learner meet high expectations, by adopting and supporting the implementation of comprehensive, clear, and rigorous academic standards through its selection of textbooks and HQIM. In 2025, the General Assembly enacted Chapters 680 and 683 (House Bill 2777), made changes to the textbook and other high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) that are to be used by school divisions as the basis for local curriculum of classroom instruction in English 6-12, mathematics K-12, science K-12, and history K-12. The changes require that each local school board adopt and implement textbooks and other HQIM in these areas and that each education preparation program that provides training of individuals seeking initial licensure includes a program of coursework and clinical experience in identifying and implementing textbooks and other HQIM. These changes do not impact the existing requirements for required core instructional materials in English K-5 and supplemental and intervention materials in K-8 English as required by the 2022 Virginia Literacy Act. Pursuant to Enactment Clause 7 of Chapters 680 and 683 (2025 Acts of Assembly), the Department was tasked with consulting with experienced teachers, division-level content specialists, and subject matter experts to evaluate proposed changes to the current textbook and review and approval process. Through this consultation, the Department was able to gather information to inform updates to the current review process.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Amendment of Guidance Document 140-2 to amend language pursuant to recent legislative changes.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Revision to 115-2 to update references to professions regulated by the Board

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Repeal of 115-4.3 due to regulatory changes regarding residency

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Revision of 90-8 for clarity of alternative credentials

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Revision of GD 90-62 to reflect statutory changes and additional curriculum approvals

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Amendment to 60-7 to include new delegable tasks for dental assistants as provide by statute

2 Comments     Last comment: 8/21/26 4:27 pm     Closes: 9/9/26

Update to Guidance Document 110-35 to clarify acceptance and transfer of prescriptions by pharmacy technicians

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Update of 110-2 to include information for applicants on UPMJE requirement for licensure

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Update to 110-44 to amend statutory references following legislative changes

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Amendment to 110-19 to include animal hospitals as an "other facility" that may use an automated dispensing system

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Revision of bylaws

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Update of contact email contained in 76-34

1 Comment     Last comment: 8/12/26 10:52 am     Closes: 9/9/26

New 65-8 to clarify the use of the declinable preneed funeral guarantee fee

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Revisions made to include addition of new licensure pathways.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Policy revision and new annual adoption, in accordance with § 2.2-3708.3.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Virginia Commonwealth Emergency Assistance Guidelines

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

The VR Policy and Procedure Manual (also referred to as the DRS Policy and Procedure Manual) builds upon federal regulatory requirements found at 34 CFR Part 361 and state regulations found in 22VAC30-20 and provides guidance for VR consumers as well as the DARS employees who support the VR program. The proposed changes to the Manual are summarized below: • Chapter 1.2 – Liability: Clarifies language regarding the scope of the specialty health insurance policy DRS maintains for certain VR clients. • Chapter 1.3 – Casefile: Memorializes longstanding policy guidance regarding the retention of sensitive client information, such as copies of Social Security cards. • Chapter 8.02 – Rehabilitation Technology: Updates language regarding comparable benefits to bring guidance into alignment with federal regulation. • Chapter 8.13 – Personal Assistance Services: Updates language to reflect the accurate reference for the Personal Assistance Services rate. • Chapter 8.21 – Vehicle, Aircraft, Boat: Updates language regarding comparable benefits to bring guidance into alignment with federal regulation.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

The VR Policy and Procedure Manual (also referred to as the DRS Policy and Procedure Manual) builds upon federal regulatory requirements found at 34 CFR Part 361 and state regulations found in 22VAC30-20 and provides guidance for VR consumers as well as the 775 DARS employees who support the VR program. The proposed changes to Chapter 5 of the Manual, clarify language around the provisions and processes related to deadlines that appear in federal and state regulations for the development of Individualized Plans for Employment.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

The VR Policy and Procedure Manual (also referred to as the DRS Policy and Procedure Manual) builds upon federal regulatory requirements found at 34 CFR Part 361 and state regulations found in 22VAC30-20 and provides guidance for VR consumers as well as the DARS employees who support the VR program. The proposed changes to the Manual are summarized below: • Chapter 1.2 – Liability: Clarifies language regarding the scope of the specialty health insurance policy DRS maintains for certain VR clients. • Chapter 1.3 – Casefile: Memorializes longstanding policy guidance regarding the retention of sensitive client information, such as copies of Social Security cards. • Chapter 8.02 – Rehabilitation Technology: Updates language regarding comparable benefits to bring guidance into alignment with federal regulation. • Chapter 8.13 – Personal Assistance Services: Updates language to reflect the accurate reference for the Personal Assistance Services rate. • Chapter 8.21 – Vehicle, Aircraft, Boat: Updates language regarding comparable benefits to bring guidance into alignment with federal regulation.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

Chapter 546 of the 2023 Acts of Assembly created the legal framework for Transportation Partnership Opportunity Fund (TPOF), which is to be used by the Governor to provide funds to address the transportation aspects of economic development opportunities or to enhance the economic development opportunities of the Commonwealth transportation programs. The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) is responsible for developing the guidelines and criteria of the TPOF in accordance with § 33.2-1529.1 of the Code of Virginia. Changes enacted pursuant to Item 438 J of Chapter 0001 of the 2026 Special Session I Acts of Assembly (2026 Budget) required changes to the TPOF Guidelines and Criteria, which were approved by the CTB at its July 22, 2026, meeting.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

Effective July 1, 2026, 46.2-1529 requires change to the Guidance document for a request for variance regarding dealer record retention.

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

This guidance document summarizes how the State Health Commissioner (“The Commissioner”) of the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), through the Office of Licensure and Certification (OLC), may consider imposing administrative sanctions for nursing facilities under 12VAC5-371-90 and Va. Code §§ 32.1-27, 27.1, and 135. This guidance document does not create new requirements or mandatory enforcement levels. Decisions regarding sanctions will always be fact specific. This guidance document does not limit VDH's or the Commissioner’s authority to take any action authorized by law.

10 Comments     Last comment: 8/25/26 7:13 am     Closes: 9/9/26

The Virginia Department of Health is pleased to present the Virginia School Health Guidelines, Fourth Edition (2026), a resource document for school and public health personnel. It was developed, approved and published under the leadership of the Virginia Department of Health in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Education. This document is intended to enhance the educational process by providing guidance to and resources for school administrators, school nurses, teachers, and other staff members on the development, implementation, and evaluation of a comprehensive or coordinated approach to school health. It presents up-to-date, evidence based best practices, health information, and recommendations for developing local programs and policies related to school health programs. Federal and state laws and regulations, local needs, professional personnel from educational and health care fields, and resource will influence how this publication can be adapted for local use. The Virginia Department of Health and Virginia Department of Education maintain a strong collaborative relationship to ensure that all schools in the Commonwealth have a safe and healthy learning environment. The revised Virginia School Health Guidelines exemplifies the continued partnership and collaboration between the Departments of Health and Education.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

To provide guidance for the implementation of established standards for the public health aspects of the Commonwealth’s shellfish program. The most recent version of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program (NSSP) Guide for the Control of Molluscan Shellfish was released in September 2024. Currently, the Division of Shellfish Safety and Waterborne Hazards (DSSWH) implements the 2019 version but now seeks to update the standards with the most recent version. The NSSP provides a nationally consistent approach to the regulatory oversight for bivalve molluscan shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels, cockles and roe on scallops). For the Commonwealth’s shellfish industry to ship their product on interstate markets, the state shellfish program must meet the minimum requirements in the NSSP. The NSSP includes requirements for laboratories, shellfish growing area classification, certification and inspection of shellfish dealers, controls for pathogenic Vibrio spp. and shellfish-related illnesses and response.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

Nursing Facility Chapter 4 Update

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

LTSS Screening Manual Chapter 4 Update

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

DD Waiver - Customized Rate - Provider Guidelines Update

1 Comment     Last comment: 7/27/26 10:02 pm     Closes: 8/26/26

Update to Temporary Detention Orders Supplement

5 Comments     Last comment: 8/24/26 4:35 pm     Closes: 8/26/26

Addiction and Recovery Treatment Services (ARTS) Provider Manual, Chapter VII (Peer Recovery Supplement)

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Practitioner Chapter 2 Update

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

Pharmacy Chapter 7 Update

0 Comments     Closes: 8/26/26

REVISED Mental Health Services Manual Chapter 2 Update

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

REVISED Mental Health Services Manual Chapter 4 Update

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

REVISED Reentry Targeted Case Management Supplement (new)

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

Addiction and Recovery Treatment Services (ARTS) Provider Manual Chapter XII (Appendix D) Update

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

REVISED DD Waiver - Customized Rate - Provider Guidelines Update

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

REVISED Addiction and Recovery Treatment Services (ARTS) Provider Manual, Chapter VII (Peer Recovery Supplement)

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

REVISED Nursing Facility Chapter 4 Update

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

The guidance changes are necessary in order for VDSS to implement the Preventing Sex Trafficking Designation for congregate care providers under the Family First Act. The designation and changes to guidance will allow VDSS to access federal funding for children in foster care that are placed in designated placements. Changes are being made to Chapters E and I of the Child and Family Services Manual.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

Updates being made to the Child & Family Services Manual Chapter D (Resource Families) and Chapter I (IV-E Foster Care) to align with federal requirements. Chapter D is updated ensure the guidance aligns with federal requirements. Sections 2.4.2.3 and 2.5.2.1 now clarify the circumstances under which title IV-E funds may be used for kinship foster parents. Previously, payments could begin on the first day of the month in which the Certificate of Approval was issued. However, to comply with federal guidance, title IV-E funds cannot be retroactively applied to the start of the month. Foster Care Maintenance Payments (FCMP) are only claimable for days after the results of the criminal record checks have been received and eligibility has been determined. Updates made to Chapter I ensure the guidance aligns with federal requirements. Sections 1.6.2.1 and 1.7.1.3.1 now clarify the circumstances under which title IV-E funds may be used for kinship foster parents. Previously, payments could begin on the first day of the month in which the Certificate of Approval was issued. However, to comply with federal guidance, title IV-E funds cannot be retroactively applied to the start of the month. Foster Care Maintenance Payments (FCMP) are only claimable for days after the results of the criminal record checks have been received and eligibility has been determined.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26

The guidance changes are necessary in order for VDSS to implement the Preventing Sex Trafficking Designation for congregate care providers under the federal Family First Act. The designation and changes to guidance will allow VDSS to access federal funding for children in foster care placed in designated placements. Changes are being made to Chapters E and I of the Child & Family Services Manual.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

The Virginia Department of Social Services is updating the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Manual by revising guidance, improving organization and plain language, and incorporating current EBT policies and processes. Key updates include guidance for chip-enabled and Summer EBT (SEBT) cards, ConnectEBT, fraud prevention and benefit theft, revised card issuance and replacement procedures, and the reorganization of content to improve usability and consistency across the manual.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/23/26

Clarification as to the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority's interpretation to the food requirements outlined in Section 4.1-119(G) of the Code of Virginia.

0 Comments     Closes: 9/9/26