I am writing in support of the proposed change to allow social workers licensure in Virginia with 36 months of active practice within five years, or 36 months of active practice and verification of 30 hours of continuing education within a year before application.  

This regulatory change is an important step in attracting and licensing highly qualified social work professionals.  As currently written, the regulation creates unnecessary and illogical barriers to licenure, and therefore penalizes Virginia  families who would greatly benefit from experienced and talented social workers.