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 6VAC20-20, Rules Relating to Compulsory Minimum Training Standards for Law-Enforcement Officers. The purpose of the proposed action is to amend the minimum training standards to enhance both officer and public safety in the Commonwealth of Virginia by improving performance outcomes by amending testing criteria and lesson plan guides and including increased training in community policing, verbal de-escalation, implicit bias, duty to intervene, and conflict resolution skills with a concentration on individuals with mental illness and historical events.

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 following the publication of the proposed stage in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 9.1-102 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: April 14, 2021.

Agency Contact: Kristi Shalton, Law Enforcement Program Coordinator, Department of Criminal Justice Services, 1100 Bank Street, Richmond, VA 23219, telephone (804) 786-7801, FAX (804) 786-0410, or email kristi.shalton@dcjs.virginia.gov.