The bill establishes a Social Work Licensure Compact in Alaska, designed to facilitate the interstate practice of regulated social workers while preserving state regulatory authority for public health and safety. Key provisions include the appointment of a board member as a delegate to the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission, the implementation of a multistate authorization to practice, and the establishment of standards for social work practice and ethics. The bill also outlines the board's responsibilities, such as issuing licenses, adopting continuing education regulations, and ensuring compliance with the Compact. Additionally, it amends existing laws to classify practicing without a valid license or multistate authorization as a class B misdemeanor and introduces new requirements for applicants seeking a multistate license.

The Compact allows for the issuance of Multistate Licenses for social workers, enabling practice across member states, and sets eligibility criteria, including passing a national exam and holding an accredited degree. It details the authority of member states to take disciplinary actions and establishes a framework for the Interstate Compact Commission, which will oversee the Compact's implementation. The bill also specifies procedures for reissuing licenses when social workers change their home state, mandates criminal history checks, and emphasizes that member states retain regulatory authority. Furthermore, it outlines the Commission's operational procedures, including public meeting notices, dispute resolution mechanisms, and the development of a coordinated Data System for licensee information. The Compact will take effect once enacted by the seventh member state and includes provisions for withdrawal and amendment processes.

Statutes affected:
HB0110A, AM HB 110, introduced 02/21/2025: 08.95.030, 08.95.110, 08.95.200, 08.95.100, 08.95.911, L.C.S, L.M.S, L.B.S, 08.95.120, 08.95.125, 08.95.990, 12.62.400