Notice of action: The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), in accordance with Part VI, Variances (12VAC35-115-220), of the Regulations to Assure the Rights of Individuals Receiving Services from Providers Licensed, Funded, or Operated by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (12VAC35-115), hereafter referred to as the “Human Rights Regulations,” is announcing a decision on an application for proposed variances to the Human Rights Regulations submitted to the State Human Rights Committee (SHRC). The purpose of the Human Rights Regulations is to ensure and protect the legal and human rights of individuals receiving services in facilities or programs operated, licensed, or funded by DBHDS.
Each variance application references the specific part of the Human Rights Regulations to which a variance is needed, the proposed wording of the substitute rule or procedure, and the justification for a variance. Such application also describes time limits and other conditions for duration and the circumstances that will end the applicability of the variance.
Purpose of notice: After considering all available information at its January 16, 2025, meeting, the SHRC voted to approve the application for variances to the Human Rights Regulations for Youth For Tomorrow for a three-year period, with quarterly updates to the Local Human Rights Committee and annual updates to the SHRC.
Variance to Procedures to Ensure Dignity:
12VAC35-115-50 C 7 and C 8 (generally granting an individual the right to communicate privately with anyone via telephone and to have or refuse visitors, unless certain listed exceptions are met).
Explanation: In order to maintain the safety and security of individuals (youth), the program may restrict communication via telephone and in person visitation to only those names placed on a list generated by the parent or legal guardian and the resident.
The requested variance will allow Youth for Tomorrow New Life Center, Inc. to utilize an approved contact list for phone calls and an approved contact list for visitation for each individual. The lists shall be developed by the individual\'s parent or legal guardian in order to protect the best interests of the individual. The individual shall be present and given the opportunity to participate with the parent or legal guardian in creating the phone and visitation lists.
Contact Information: Taneika Goldman, Director, Office of Human Rights, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, 1220 East Bank Street, P.O. Box 1797, Richmond, VA 23218-1797, telephone (804) 786-3988, FAX (833) 734-1241, or email: taneika.goldman@dbhds.virginia.gov.
Name / Title: | Taneika Goldman / Director, Office of Human Rights |
Address: |
DBHDS Office of Human Rights 1220 Bank St., Jefferson Building - 4th Floor Richmond, 23219 |
Email Address: | taneika.goldman@dbhds.virginia.gov |
Telephone: | (804)371-0064 FAX: (833)734-1241 TDD: (804)371-8977 |