Lots of Issues to Address

January 08, 2025

First, I am certain that the news about snow. ice and a dysfunctional water plant (which has meant no water from the tap) in Richmond has reached even in the farthest corners of the Commonwealth.  Disruptive to say the least and the General Assembly will begin on Monday next week, instead of today.

• They did convene briefly today and “organized” so there is no intent that the Session will run longer than planned.   But, at least the first few weeks, it will be more chaotic than usual.
• The two special elections held yesterday, to replace members who have moved on to another office,  were both in favor of Democrats which maintained the D’s very narrow majority in the Senate and slightly larger majority in the House.  We are non-partisan, however, with the D’s maintaining majorities the basic organization (including Committee Chairs) will not change.  This will provide a large degree of order and organization!
• We got word tonight that the DD Waiver Rate Study has been paused (and, therefore, the training has been cancelled).  The good news is that there were many reasons to wish that it be paused; the bad news is that it may be much more difficult to get the study results in time for a rate adjustment to be submitted for the 2026-28 biennium.  While we did not like the way the study was rolled out, we did want to preserve the option for something supported by data for next Session.
• We are also getting multiple questions about new or reinterpreted standards for the approval of Service Auths for Therapeutic Consultation.  We are doing some research and will find an answer.

Stay warm and safe!   Conserve water and boil for 3 minutes if required.   Enjoy a long hot shower this weekend!