Bill > HB1293

This bill directs the Virginia Health Workforce Development Authority to create a comprehensive work group aimed at addressing workforce challenges in behavioral health and nursing. The work group will include representatives from various state agencies, professional boards, and legislative committees, with a mandate to identify and propose revisions to current regulations and policies that impede healthcare workforce development. Specifically, the group will focus on three key areas: (1) revising barrier crimes legislation to improve employment opportunities for peer recovery specialists and substance abuse workers, (2) recommending statutory changes to enhance nursing education and training capabilities, and (3) reevaluating qualifications for mental health professionals. The work group will be required to elect a chairman, receive staff support from the Division of Legislative Services, and submit a comprehensive report with recommendations to legislative committee chairs and the Governor by October 1, 2025. All state agencies are expected to provide assistance to the Authority as needed in conducting this important workforce analysis.

https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?251+sum+HB1293