Currently, an absolute barrier to admissions for physical therapy assistant (PTA) programs exists in the Commonwealth of Virginia, which is discriminatory against Viginia residents.

Applicants to these same programs that come from a state where educational programs do not treat prior felonies as an absolute bar to admission are free to apply for licensure in Virginia and have the Board decide on the application on a case-by-case basis. For a resident of Virginia to receive the same privilege, he or she must first leave the state for schooling. In addition to the costs of moving & a host of other tangible / intangible inconveniences, this can result in higher tuition costs and discouragement from pursuing a profession for which they would otherwise be qualified. Furthermore, once a Virginia resident leaves the state for education, he or she might never return and deprive the Commonwealth of Virginia of the services of a qualified health care professional.

In sum:  Persons with non-violent felonies should instead be allowed a fair case-by-case review during the admissions process.