CHAPTER 316

An Act to create the Virginia Commission for Children and Youth; to
provide for the selection and terms of office of its members; and to
prescribe its functions and duties.

[H 924]

Approved April 2, 1968

Whereas, upon the shoulders of the youth of today will rest the wel-
fare of the Commonwealth of tomorrow; and

Whereas, although the activities of many public and private agencies
are involved in meeting the needs of youth, there is no State agency whose
primary function is directed toward a broadly based search for solutions
to such needs; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. §1. There is hereby created, as a permanent agency in the office of
the Governor, the Virginia Committee for Children and Youth. The Com-
mission shall consist of fifteen members, appointed by the Governor as
follows: of the members first appointed, three shall be appointed for a
term of one year, four for a term of two years, four for a term of three
years and four for a term of four years; subsequent appointments shall be
for terms of four years each except appointments to fill vacancies which
shall be for the unexpired terms. No member shall be eligible to serve
more than two successive four year terms. Members of the Commission
shall receive no compensation for their services but shall be paid their
necessary expenses incurred in the discharge of their duties.

§ 2. The Commission shall make studies and conduct research into
any and all matters affecting the welfare of the youth of this State includ-
ing, but not limited to, causes of juvenile delinquency and programs aimed
at its reduction or elimination; opportunities being afforded our youth to
develop their full potential as mature citizens; State and local programs
directed toward the welfare of youth; and such other matters as to it
may seem appropriate.

3. The Commission is authorized, subject to the provisions of
Chapter 10 of Title 2.1 of the Code of Virginia, to employ such staff as
may be necessary to enable it properly to perform its duties. The Commis-
sion is further authorized to accept and expend gifts and donations from
public and private sources to enable it better to carry out its objectives.

§ 4. The Commission shall biennially make a report containing its
findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly
not less than sixty days prior to the convening of each regular session of
the General Assembly.