VBA Journal

SPR 2017

The VBA Journal is the official publication of The Virginia Bar Association.

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10 • VBA JOURNAL VBA Proposals Spur New Laws LEGISLATIVE RESULTS BUSINESS LAW SECTION Virtual Shareholder Meetings Amends the Virginia Stock Corporation Act to allow Virginia corporations to hold virtual shareholder meetings. Acts of Assembly Chapter 646. ELDER LAW AND SPECIAL NEEDS SECTION Temporary Guardianship Assignments Allows for appointment of a temporary guardian while the guardian is unavailable, for example, because of illness or travel. Deferred until the 2018 session to allow for continued work with stakeholders. O ne important piece of e Virginia Bar Association's mission is advocating for improvements to the law that will ensure the fair administration of justice. Every year, the Board of Governors considers legislative proposals from VBA sections and affiliated groups, and the VBA asks Virginia General Assembly members to introduce legislation it supports for consideration during the session. During the 2017 session, the Virginia General Assembly considered 24 bills from VBA sections and affiliated organizations. In addition to the legislation outlined below, the General Assembly approved improvements to Virginia's State and Local Government Conflicts of Interest Act that would exclude Virginia judges and justices from the provisions of the bill that apply to gifts from lobbyists. ese provisions previously led to issues with judges and justices attending events by certain bar groups. e VBA applauds these changes. e VBA appreciates all the General Assembly members who agreed to sponsor this legislation as well as its many members who worked in support of this legislation. Unless otherwise indicated, the legislation signed into law by the governor will take effect July 1, 2017. BY JEFFREY S. PALMORE HEALTH LAW SECTION Advanced Medical Directives Provides that health care providers and others who have training may consult with and assist others in completing an advanced medical directive without engaging in the unautho- rized practice of law. Acts of Assembly Chapters 747 and 752. Due Process in DMAS Appeals Ensures that principles of due process apply during appeals of decisions by the Department of Medical Assistance Services. Language was included in the budget bill. Immunity for Organizers of Free Health Clinics Extends liability protection to the organizers of free health clinics. Acts of Assembly Chapters 57 and 415.

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