We strongly oppose SB23! As the Executive Director of the Hampton-Newport News CSB, which is the CSB that represents this district, we are strongly opposed to this bill. In addition to what has already been written repeatedly from CSBs across the Commonwealth, there has been some misunderstanding or misrepresentation as to why this change is needed. It has been stated that due to the backlog at our CSB the ECOs are running out. That is untrue and easily verifiable. It was also stated that CSBs conduct prescreening evaluations on computer screens. Well, that is called telemedicine and is an approved clinical practice. If telemedicine is a concern, we can address that. It was also stated during testimony that there are duplicate assessments. While an individual may undergo multiple assessments, there is only one prescreening assessment and that is completed by the CSB. It has also been stated that having a private entity conduct the prescreening assessment will get law enforcement back on the street faster. This is also untrue, law enforcement's obligation is under the TDO, regardless of who completes the prescreening assessment. Please question the information that is presented, and review the law and roles involved in the TDO process under the code of Virginia. It would be great to have the office of the Attorney General weigh in on the conflict of interest or legality of a process that allows for a provider who has a financial interest, conduct prescreening evaluations and bed search.
Thank you for your consideration.
We strongly oppose SB23! As the Executive Director of the Hampton-Newport News CSB, which is the CSB that represents this district, we are strongly opposed to this bill. In addition to what has already been written repeatedly from CSBs across the Commonwealth, there has been some misunderstanding or misrepresentation as to why this change is needed. It has been stated that due to the backlog at our CSB the ECOs are running out. That is untrue and easily verifiable. It was also stated that CSBs conduct prescreening evaluations on computer screens. Well, that is called telemedicine and is an approved clinical practice. If telemedicine is a concern, we can address that. It was also stated during testimony that there are duplicate assessments. While an individual may undergo multiple assessments, there is only one prescreening assessment and that is completed by the CSB. It has also been stated that having a private entity conduct the prescreening assessment will get law enforcement back on the street faster. This is also untrue, law enforcement's obligation is under the TDO, regardless of who completes the prescreening assessment. Please question the information that is presented, and review the law and roles involved in the TDO process under the code of Virginia. It would be great to have the office of the Attorney General weigh in on the conflict of interest or legality of a process that allows for a provider who has a financial interest, conduct prescreening evaluations and bed search. Thank you for your consideration.