Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) intends to consider amending 22VAC45-70, Provision of Services in Rehabilitation Teaching, and repealing 22VAC45-80, Provision of Independent Living Rehabilitation Services. The purpose of the proposed action is to implement the results of a periodic review and amend 22VAC45-70 (Provision of Services in Rehabilitation Teaching) while simultaneously repealing 22VAC45-80 (Provision of Independent Living Rehabilitation Services). These two chapters include language that is identical or very similar regarding referral for, eligibility determination of, plan for, and scope of rehabilitation teaching and independent living services. DBVI does not operate independent living centers for the blind as described in 22VAC45-80. Rather, DBVI coordinates and provides independent living services through its Rehabilitation Teaching/Independent Living Program and as ancillary services through its Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program.

This action updates 22VAC45-70 to (i) reflect a change in title; (ii) expand rehabilitation teaching services to include independent living services, which is current agency practice; (iii) update definitions and state and federal citations; and (iv) make other technical or necessary changes.

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

Statutory Authority: § 51.5-65 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: September 30, 2020.

Agency Contact: Susan K. Davis, MS, CRC, Regulatory Coordinator, Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired, 397 Azalea Avenue, Richmond, VA 23227, telephone (804) 371-3184, or email susan.davis@dbvi.virginia.gov.