Add to 12VAC35-115-30, DEFINITIONS

"Circle of support" means a group of 3 or more people who have been designated by the individual with a disability to assist him/her to accomplish personal life goals and to support the individual to make decisions and, if so designated, act as a substitute decision-maker.  "Microboard" means an organization incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth, whose mission and scope is to develop, provide and oversee the delivery of services and supports, within a formal organizational structure, to an individual who requires assistance in decision-making.

Add to Part IV, 12VAC35-115-146  Authorized representatives-  the option for a microboard or circle to be appointed to serve as authorized representative for an individual when it has been determined the individual lacks capacity to make some decisions.

Section A- Add to the list of those from whom a provider shall obtain consent or authorization--'A microboard duly incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia"

Section B  Add " A next of friend can be an individual or a Circle of Support.  If the next friend is a Circle of Support, the Circle shall designate a liaison to the LHRC, and the provider and shall agree to regular contact or communication with the individual and the provision of personal, financial, spiritual, psychological or other support or assistance to the individual.  The liaison of the Circle shall not be a provider currently working with the individual.