The bill establishes the Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact, designed to enhance the interstate practice of regulated social workers and improve public access to social work services. It aims to reduce duplicative licensing requirements, facilitate mutual recognition of licenses among member states, and support military families. The compact also mandates the creation of the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the issuance of multistate licenses, manage investigations, and enforce compliance with the compact's provisions. The bill outlines the requirements for state participation, including the designation of eligible licensure categories and the criteria for obtaining a multistate license, which includes holding an active license in the home state, passing a national exam, and completing supervised practice.

Additionally, the bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to align with the compact, including provisions for reporting investigative information and appointing a state delegate to the commission. It specifies educational qualifications for social work licensure, the process for reissuing multistate licenses, and the responsibilities of member states regarding adverse actions against licensees. The bill also introduces new governance provisions for the commission, including financial responsibilities and the establishment of a coordinated data system for uniform reporting. It emphasizes the protection of personal privacy and confidentiality while ensuring that the commission's rules have the force of law in member states. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 74 Filed: 456.073, 456.076, 491.005, 491.009