Virginia Code Title 2.2. Administration of Government § 2.2-605. Appointment of acting officer in case of temporary disability

When any officer in charge of or at the head of any division or department of the state government shall, because of sickness or for any other reason, be unable to perform the duties of his office and no provision is made for someone, or for the appointment of someone, to exercise the powers and perform the duties of such office while the officer is sick or unable to act, the Governor may appoint some person temporarily to fill such office as acting head or in charge of such division or department, who shall after qualifying exercise the powers and perform the duties of such office until the incumbent returns or the office is otherwise filled.