CMS has granted states an additional extension for full compliance with the HCBS Settings Rule. Virginia providers should use this window to audit residential and day program settings for person-centered planning alignment. The extension provides breathing room but compliance preparation should not be delayed.

The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services has published updated licensing regulations affecting IDD waiver service providers. Key changes include enhanced documentation requirements for QIDP assessments and updated incident reporting timelines. Providers must update internal procedures by Q4 2026.

Federal Medicaid HCBS spending has increased 12% year-over-year, with Virginia receiving additional funding through the American Rescue Plan HCBS enhanced FMAP. This funding supports workforce development, technology upgrades, and service expansion. SSVA may be eligible for technology modernization grants tied to this funding stream.

Virginia is rolling out Phase 2 of Electronic Visit Verification requirements for personal care and homemaker services. Providers must ensure all HCBS visits are tracked through approved EVV systems. Integration with existing Therap documentation may require workflow adjustments for clinical monitoring staff.

Virginia has approved rate increases for Direct Support Professional wages under the IDD waiver program. The average hourly rate increases by $2.50, effective July 2026. This impacts payroll processing and benefits calculations for SSVA's direct-care workforce and may require updates to ADP configurations.