The proposed bill seeks to establish the Social Work Licensure Compact in Arkansas, aimed at facilitating the interstate practice of regulated social workers. This Compact is intended to enhance public access to qualified social work services while maintaining state regulatory authority to ensure public health and safety. Key objectives include reducing duplicative licensing requirements, promoting telehealth services, and enhancing cooperation among states in regulating multistate practice. The bill outlines the criteria for participation in the Compact, including requirements for member states and social workers seeking multistate licenses, such as holding an unencumbered license in their home state and passing a qualifying national exam.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the administration of the Compact and consist of one delegate from each member state. The Commission is empowered to create rules, manage finances, and conduct investigations, while also providing protections for regulated social workers from disciplinary actions by their home state for lawful actions taken in other member states. The bill includes provisions for the liability and indemnification of Commission members, mandates the creation of a coordinated data system for licensure information, and outlines procedures for states to withdraw from the Compact or address defaults. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the licensing process for social workers across state lines while ensuring regulatory oversight and public safety.