Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

The advisory board discussed legislative updates, including the mandated report on Virginia Relay Modernization, the passage of the Open Caption bill, and potential legislative proposals for the 2027 session such as codifying the Deaf Mentor and SSP/CN programs. A representative from the Department of Motor Vehicles presented on accessibility measures, specifically the UbiDuo device. Various program reports were provided, covering the Analog to Digital transition for Virginia Relay, staffing updates, technology procurement for the TAP program, and community outreach efforts. Additionally, the Board reviewed proposed changes to the By-Laws and received a financial update regarding the current and upcoming fiscal year budgets.

The Advisory Board By-Laws Special Committee conducted a comprehensive review and revision of the department's by-laws. Key changes included updating the official title to align with the Code of Virginia, refining the organization's mission statement, and updating references to specific legal code sections. The committee also revised articles concerning member conduct, compensation reimbursement policies, and officer election procedures. Furthermore, they modified meeting schedules to increase flexibility, modernized communication methods for notices, updated public comment protocols, and reassigned administrative responsibilities regarding minutes retention.

The meeting focused on the initial activities and organization of the Autonomous Driving Work Group. Key discussion topics included a summary of the 2026 legislative session regarding autonomous vehicles and pilot programs, an overview of the national legislative and regulatory landscape for autonomous driving systems, and the group's expanded scope to include labor and workforce impacts. The discussion also covered requirements for autonomous vehicle testing, oversight agencies, law enforcement interaction plans, vehicle identification markings, and insurance requirements.

The board reviewed the fiscal year 2026 operating budget, including surplus factors and proposed budget initiatives. Discussions included early intervention programs for children, a shortage of audiologists, and ongoing challenges within the deaf and deafblind communities regarding service access and training. The board addressed public concerns about community events and police training for interactions with deaf citizens. Agency reports covered office renovations, staff transitions, the discontinuation of the Support Service Provider grant, and progress on relay service transitions from analog to digital. Future meeting topics were outlined, focusing on strategic planning, emergency management, and accessibility initiatives.

The board discussed program reports covering telecommunications relay services, interpreter services coordination and training, technology assistance programs, and community outreach efforts. New policy initiatives were introduced, including the development of a board manual and a new code of ethics. Strategic plan updates were reviewed, noting the status of equipment modernization and funding for specific programs. Additionally, the board held elections for leadership positions, established a bylaws committee, and discussed travel reimbursement procedures.