Title of Regulation: 18VAC115-80. Registration of Qualified Mental Health Professionals (adding 18VAC115-80-10 through 18VAC115-80-110).

Statutory Authority: §§ 54.1-2400 and 54.1-3505 of the Code of Virginia.

Expiration Date Extended Through: December 16, 2019.

The Governor approved the request of the Board of Counseling to extend the expiration date of the emergency regulation for six months as provided by § 2.2-4011 D of the Code of Virginia. Therefore, the emergency regulation will continue in effect through December 16, 2019. The emergency regulation relates to the registration of qualified mental health professionals (QMHPs). The Board of Counseling adopted final replacement regulations on May 31, 2109; however, the regulations will not be effective before the original expiration date of the emergency regulations. Without an extension of emergency regulations, the board will be unable to register QMHPs. Registration is a requirement for reimbursement by the Department of Medical Assistance Services, so a disruption in registration of QMHPs would have an impact on mental health treatment in Virginia. The emergency regulation was published in 34:10 VA.R. 1085-1089 January 8, 2018.

Agency Contact: Jaime Hoyle, Executive Director, Board of Counseling, 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23233, telephone (804) 367-4406, FAX (804) 527-4435, or email jaime.hoyle@dhp.virginia.gov.