Over the last month DSS has issued several memos for assisted living providers. Memos have covered a range of topics including:

• the end of COVID-related regulatory leniencies;
• updates to licensing administrator supervisory assignments and contact information; and
• FEMA shelter-in-place guidance.

DSS to End COVID-Related Regulatory Leniencies

DSS announced in a June 29 memo that when Virginia’s COVID-19 state of emergency ends on June 30, 2021, so will the DSS regulatory leniencies. DSS expects providers to comply with all regulatory requirements once the state of emergency ends. ALFs should review the list of leniencies that were provided with extensions beyond the state of emergency.

As stated in the memo, there are a few items in each emergency suspension list that specifically extend beyond the state of emergency. ALFs should review the wording carefully to understand and prepare for program compliance implications. The following are the ALF leniencies which had extensions beyond the state of emergency: 

22 VAC 40-73-210 Direct care staff training.
If annual or other training deadlines occur during the state of emergency, extend for 90 days beyond the end of the state of emergency. 

22 VAC40-73-250 Staff records and health requirements.
For staff hired to ensure an adequate staffing pattern, waive the requirements for TB screenings and orientation/training requirements for these staff. Staff coming from facilities that are already licensed can copy and bring their file with them. If annual TB screening deadlines occur during the state of emergency, extend for 90 days beyond the end of the state of emergency.

22 VAC40-73-260 First aid and CPR certification.
For providers whose CPR, medication, or first aid certifications expire during the state of emergency, extend these certifications for 90 days. 

22 VAC 40-73-320 Physical examination and report.
If annual TB screening deadlines occur during the state of emergency, extend for 90 days beyond the end of the state of emergency.

You may also contact your licensing inspector with any questions.

DSS Updates to Licensing Offices Memo

DSS has updated the licensing administrator supervisory assignments and licensing office mailing addresses and fax numbers. We encourage you to read the July 7 memo and make note of any applicable changes in your region. 

DSS Shares FEMA Shelter-In-Place Guidance 

DSS has shared the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Shelter-in-Place Pictogram Guidance for 10 hazards and three building types. The pictograms provide clear, visual guidance on shelter-in-place actions classified by both hazard and building type to ensure the public takes effective protective actions when instructed to shelter-in-place during emergencies.

The guidance covers:

• active shooter
• chemical hazard
• earthquake
• flooding/flash flooding
• hurricane
• nuclear/radiological event
• pandemic
• thunderstorm
• tornado
• winter storm

The FEMA guidance provides recommended interior locations for specific hazards, additional actions for protection, and the recommended duration for staying sheltered-in-place. It provides shelter-in-place guidance for one and two story buildings, multi-story buildings, as well as manufactured or mobile homes.