2014 Virginia Code
Title 54.1 - Professions and Occupations
§ 54.1-2208.4. Professional ethics and conduct

A. The Board, in coordination with an ad hoc panel of certified professional geologists convened by the Board and representing various geological interests in Virginia, shall have prepared and adopted a Code of Professional Ethics and Conduct that shall be published and made known in writing to every Virginia certified professional geologist and applicant for certification under this article. The Board may revise and amend this code as needed and shall forthwith notify each certified professional geologist in writing of such revisions or amendments.

B. The full Board, by majority vote, shall have the power to suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew the certification of any professional geologist who, after an appropriate formal hearing, is found to have been involved in:

1. Any fraud or deceit in obtaining certification;

2. Any violation of the Code of Professional Ethics and Conduct or other regulations of the Board;

3. Demonstrated gross negligence, incompetence, or misconduct in the practice of geology as a professional geologist; or

4. Any conviction of a felony which, in the opinion of the Board, would adversely affect the practice of geology.

C. The Board, by majority vote of the quorum, may reinstate a revoked or suspended certification to any professional geologist who makes written application to the Board showing good cause for such action.

1981, c. 132, § 54-967; 1988, c. 765, § 54.1-1405; 2012, cc. 803, 835.