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Bill

HB 85

Va.-specific postsecondary transition counselor certificate program; development and establishment.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Amy Laufer

Virginia establishes a state certificate program for postsecondary transition counselors to standardize training and improve support services for students entering higher education.

Continued to next session in Education (Voice Vote)
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Bill Summary · HB 85

Legislative bill overview

HB 85 directs Virginia to develop and establish a state-specific certificate program for postsecondary transition counselors—professionals who help students, particularly those with disabilities, navigate the transition from secondary to postsecondary education. The bill requires the state to create standards, curriculum, and certification requirements for this specialized counselor role.

Why is this important

Transition counseling is a critical support service for students with disabilities and others facing significant educational transitions, yet Virginia currently lacks standardized training or certification for these specialists. Establishing a formal certificate program could improve consistency, quality, and availability of transition services across the state's schools and postsecondary institutions, potentially improving post-graduation outcomes for vulnerable student populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation cost and funding: The fiscal impact statement suggests resource requirements; legislators may debate whether the state should fund this program or require institutions to absorb costs
  • Program scope and mandate: Unclear whether completion should be mandatory for current counselors, only for new hires, or voluntary, which affects implementation burden
  • Coordination between K-12 and higher education: Transition counseling spans multiple education systems; the bill's governance structure and how agencies coordinate could create friction or duplication

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

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