The bill establishes the Art Therapist Licensure Act in Kansas, which regulates and licenses professional art therapists. It defines essential terms such as "art therapy," "licensed clinical art therapist," and "licensed professional art therapist," and sets forth the qualifications for licensure, including age, educational requirements, supervised experience, and a certification examination. The legislation also provides for temporary licenses for individuals pursuing postgraduate supervised experience and allows for waivers of certain requirements for applicants with substantial prior experience. Additionally, it amends existing statutes related to the behavioral sciences regulatory board, detailing the renewal and reinstatement of licenses, continuing education requirements, and penalties for practicing without a license.

Moreover, the bill enhances the authority of the behavioral sciences regulatory board, allowing it to seek court orders against individuals violating licensure laws and emphasizing the confidentiality of complaints received by the board. It grants the board the power to revoke licenses voluntarily surrendered during misconduct investigations and offers the option to censure licensees instead of pursuing harsher penalties. The bill also repeals specific statutes to streamline the regulatory framework for behavioral sciences in Kansas. Overall, the legislation aims to ensure that art therapists meet professional standards while safeguarding public safety and accountability in mental health services.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 74-7507, 74-7508