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HB 1366

Local boards & departments; DSS to create corrective action plans & assumption of temporary control.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Katrina Callsen and 3 co-sponsors

Virginia authorizes state DSS to impose corrective action plans on underperforming local social services boards and temporarily assume operational control.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 835 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 1366

Legislative bill overview

HB 1366 authorizes the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS) to create corrective action plans for local social services boards and departments that are underperforming, and grants DSS temporary control authority over these local entities to implement improvements. The bill establishes a mechanism for state intervention when local DSS operations fail to meet state standards.

Why is this important

Local social services departments administer critical programs including child welfare, adult protective services, and benefits eligibility. When these systems fail, vulnerable populations—children, elderly adults, and low-income families—face serious risks. This bill attempts to address systemic failures by giving the state enforcement power, though it raises questions about local governance and implementation capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • State vs. Local Control: Allows state assumption of local functions, which may conflict with principles of local government autonomy and could create tension between state and local elected officials
  • Resource and Capacity Issues: DSS taking temporary control requires significant state resources and staff; unclear whether the state has adequate capacity to manage multiple local departments while maintaining its own operations
  • Undefined Standards: The bill's reference to "corrective action plans" and performance benchmarks may lack sufficient clarity on what triggers intervention and what "temporary" actually means in practice

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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