CHAPTER 593

An Act to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered
68-72.1 authorizing local boards of public welfare to provide certain
welfare services.

(H 427)

Approved April 5, 1966

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1, That the Code of Virginia be amended by adding a section numbered
68-72.1, as follows: ,

§ 63-72.1. Each local board of public welfare is authorized to provide,
in its discretion, subject to the supervision of the Commissioner and in ac-
cordance with rules prescribed by the State Board, any or all child welfare
services herein described. For purposes of this section, the term “child wel-
fare services” means public social services which supplement, or substitute
for, parental] care and supervision for the purpose of (1) preventing or
remedying, or assisting in the solution of problems which may result in, the
neglect, abuse, exploitation, or delinquency of children; (2) protecting
and caring for homeless, dependent, or neglected children; (3) protecting
and promoting the welfare of children of working mothers; and (4)
otherwise protecting and promoting the welfare of children, including
the strengthening of their own homes where possible, or, where needed,
the provision of adequate care of children away from their own homes
in foster family homes or day care or other facilities.

Provided, however, that day care centers shall not be operated by a
local board of public welfare without first obtaining the consent of the local
governing body; provided further that child welfare services shall not be
administered to any child or children without the consent of the parent
or guardian or authority of a court of competent jurisdiction.