Va. Code Ann. § 63.2-1703

The Commissioner may grant a variance to a regulation when the Commissioner determines that (i) a licensee or applicant for licensure as an assisted living facility, adult day center or child welfare agency has demonstrated that the implementation of a regulation would impose a substantial financial or programmatic hardship and (ii) the variance would not adversely affect the safety and well-being of residents, participants or children in care. The Commissioner shall review each allowable variance at least annually. At a minimum, this review shall address the impact of the allowable variance on persons in care, adherence by the licensee to any conditions attached, and the continuing need for the allowable variance.