Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Criminal Justice Services Board intends to consider amending 6VAC20-230, Regulations Relating to Special Conservator of the Peace. The purpose of the proposed action is to amend and revise the compulsory minimum training standards, make technical amendments, and increase the number of training hours required. Training requirements are established in § 9.1-150.2 of the Code of Virginia, and this action's goal is to simplify the regulation by repealing sections and replacing them with a document incorporated by reference that houses the various categories of training that must be met by all special conservators of the peace (SPOCs) in the Commonwealth. All amendments will reflect newly-revised compulsory minimum training standards for law-enforcement officers so that the two professions have consistency across all regulations.

In addition, pursuant to Executive Order 14 (as amended, July 16, 2018) and § 2.2-4007.1 of the Code of Virginia, the agency is conducting a periodic review and small business impact review of this regulation to determine whether this regulation should be terminated, amended, or retained in its current form. Public comment is sought on the review of any issue relating to this regulation, including whether the regulation (i) is necessary for the protection of public health, safety, and welfare; (ii) minimizes the economic impact on small businesses consistent with the stated objectives of applicable law; and (iii) is clearly written and easily understandable.

The agency does not intend to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 9.1-150.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: March 2, 2022.

Agency Contact: Kristi Shalton, Law Enforcement Program Coordinator, Department of Criminal Justice Services, 1100 Bank Street, Richmond, VA 23219, telephone (804) 786-7801, or email kristi.shalton@dcjs.virginia.gov.