Virginia § 32.1-73.12 - Department to be lead agency for services for substance-exposed infants

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 32.1-73.12 — Department to be lead agency for services for substance-exposed infants, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 32.1-73.12. Department to be lead agency for services for substance-exposed infants

The Department shall serve as the lead agency with responsibility for the development, coordination, and implementation of a plan for services for substance-exposed infants in the Commonwealth. Such plan shall support a trauma-informed approach to identification and treatment of substance-exposed infants and their caregivers and shall include options for improving screening and identification of substance-using pregnant women; use of multidisciplinary approaches to intervention and service delivery during the prenatal period and following the birth of the substance-exposed child; and referral among providers serving substance-exposed infants and their families and caregivers. In carrying out its duties, the Department shall work cooperatively with the Department of Social Services, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, community services boards and behavioral health authorities, local departments of health, the Virginia Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Virginia Section, and such other stakeholders as may be appropriate. The Department shall report annually on December 1 to the General Assembly regarding implementation of the plan.

2018, cc. 695, 696.

Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 32.1-73.12

What does Code of Virginia § 32.1-73.12 cover?

Section 32.1-73.12 ("Department to be lead agency for services for substance-exposed infants") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Virginia § 32.1-73.12?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 32.1-73.12" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.

How does Virginia § 32.1-73.12 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.