The bill enacts the Art Therapist Licensure Act, establishing a regulatory framework for the licensing and practice of professional art therapists in Kansas. It defines key terms such as "art therapy," "licensed clinical art therapist," and "licensed professional art therapist," while outlining the qualifications necessary for licensure, including age, education, supervised experience, examination, and moral character. The legislation prohibits the practice of art therapy without a license and sets penalties for violations. It also introduces provisions for temporary licenses for those in postgraduate supervised experience and allows waivers for certain licensure requirements based on prior experience. Continuing education is mandated for license renewal, and the bill details the process for reinstating expired or revoked licenses.

Additionally, the bill enhances the authority of the behavioral sciences regulatory board, allowing it to investigate and enforce compliance with licensure requirements. It specifies conditions under which the board may refuse to issue or renew licenses, including issues related to substance abuse and criminal convictions. The bill also emphasizes client confidentiality, requiring licensees to inform clients about their qualifications. It grants the board the power to revoke licenses during misconduct investigations and allows for censure as an alternative disciplinary action. The legislation repeals outdated sections of existing law and will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

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