Behaviorist serve a population that is consists of more than children and more than people with Autism. People with the LBA/LABA credential are recognized as the “gold standard” in Virginia, yet have difficulties supporting adults through their transitional phases of life. This is in part due to their limited field opportunities. If Virginia intends to meet the DOJ’s expectations of being person centered and provide ongoing adequate support, there need to be more avenues available to be considered a licensed behaviorist than going through the BACB. 
As it currently stands, there are services where LBA/LABAs are providing the same work as other credentials, but because the BACB is the “gold standard”, this credential earns more. Unless the state plans to serve the consumers directly, it is time for a change. There is already a shortage and it is growing by the day. I am speaking as someone who began the process to earn LBA credentials and didn’t complete them with only 2 courses and supervision left to obtain. My choice was due to the limited services “ABA” places LBA/LABAs into. All professionals who want to provide ethical service should be able to do so and earn a decent living doing so.