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 conform the regulation to Chapters 505 and 722 of the 2025 Acts of Assembly. The proposed amendments being considered will (i) transition the existing voluntary certification program for geologists into a mandatory licensure program administered by the board and (ii) remove vague or arbitrary terms to refuse an occupational or professional license, certification, or registration.

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: May 20, 2026.

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 psswpg@dpor.virginia.gov.