RD4 - Annual Report on the Virginia Public Guardian and Conservator Program


Executive Summary:
The 2003 evaluation of the Virginia Public Guardian & Conservator Program found that programs in Virginia continue to perform reasonably well even though programs face critical funding shortages. In particular, two critical funding needs were identified. The first is the need for program rate increases and the second is the need for funding to support statewide coverage to ensure service for citizens of the Commonwealth who need a guardian and/or conservator.

Progress continues to be made in addressing the 2003 recommendations. Most notable, 2005 appropriations included $132,000 in general funds to expand services through the Virginia Public Guardian and Conservator Program (VPGCP) to individuals with mental illness and/or mental retardation who are 18 years of age and older. Comporting with the Commonwealth's Olmstead Initiative, these funds were obligated and resulted in two new programs able to serve an additional 40 individuals in previously un-served areas. 2006 Appropriations included $150,000 in general funds to further expand services for public guardianship. Using these funds, the VPGCP was able to add three additional new programs in previously un-served areas resulting in anew program capacity of 368 individuals, served through fifteen local programs, as of July 1, 2006.

Statewide Needs Assessment - Public Guardianship

In last year's annual report to this honorable assembly, a plan for a Statewide Needs Assessment for public guardianship was presented. Preliminary findings indicate that VPGCP is only able to serve 26% of clients deemed eligible for services. A final report will be submitted to this honorable assembly with next year's annual report.

Guardianship Regulations

Substantial progress has been made in promulgating public guardianship regulations. Stage 1, Notice of Intended Regulatory Action (NOIRA) was completed in the fourth quarter of 2005 and Stage 2, Proposed Regulation, is in process with an anticipated completion date by third quarter 2007. Stage 3, the final stage, of the regulatory process is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2008.