TITLE 18. PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING

BOARD FOR PROFESSIONAL SOIL SCIENTISTS, WETLAND PROFESSIONALS, AND GEOLOGISTS

Notice of Intended Regulatory Action

Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board for Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists intends to consider amending 18VAC145-40, Regulations for the Geology Certification Program. The purpose of the proposed action is to undertake a general review of the regulation in accordance with the regulatory reduction goal of Executive Directive Number One (2022). The regulation provides for the certification of professional geologists. The goals of the action include (i) reviewing discretionary requirements imposed on regulated parties to determine whether such requirements impose burdens that are not necessary to protect the public health, safety, and welfare or are not necessary to effectively administer the licensure program; (ii) ensuring the regulation conforms to current Virginia law and meets applicable federal requirements, is organized, clear, and understandable, and provides minimal burdens on regulants while still protecting the public; and (iii) ensuring the regulation reflects current Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation procedures and policies, along with any other changes determined to be necessary and appropriate.

The agency intends to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: June 5, 2024.

Agency Contact: Kathleen R. Nosbisch, Executive Director, Board for Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists, 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA 23233, telephone (804) 367-8514, FAX (866) 465-6206, or email soilscientist@dpor.virginia.gov.