The proposed bill establishes the Social Work Licensure Compact, which aims to facilitate the interstate practice of licensed social workers and improve public access to competent social work services. It outlines the objectives of the compact, such as increasing public access to services, reducing duplicative licensing requirements, and promoting cooperation among member states. The bill defines key terms and specifies requirements for state participation, including the designation of eligible social work licensure categories for multistate licenses and the criteria that licensed social workers must meet to obtain such licenses. Additionally, it includes provisions for the renewal of multistate licenses, regulatory authority over services provided by licensed social workers, and consequences for encumbrances on a licensee's multistate authorization to practice.

The bill also amends existing Florida statutes to align with the compact, including the appointment of a delegate to the commission and the establishment of a process for addressing member states that default on their obligations. It expands the grounds for disciplinary action against licensees and clarifies the authority of the board to take adverse actions against social workers practicing under the compact. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for qualified immunity for commission members and establishes a coordinated data system for sharing licensure and disciplinary information among member states. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, enhancing the regulatory framework for mental health professionals and streamlining the licensure process for social workers across states.

Statutes affected:
S 220 Filed: 456.073, 456.076, 491.005, 491.009