The bill amends various sections of chapter 112 of the General Laws to remove the examination requirement for Licensed Certified Social Workers and to establish a paid practicum placement grant program for Master of Social Work (MSW) students. Specifically, it deletes the requirement that applicants must pass an examination prepared by the board and modifies the language regarding examinations for licensed social workers. Additionally, it introduces a new section that mandates the creation of a grant program aimed at supporting MSW students from historically marginalized and low-income communities, with funding sourced from state, federal, or other dedicated resources.

Furthermore, the bill allows licensed independent clinical social workers who supervise interns to earn continuing education credits for their supervision efforts. It also requires the executive office of health and human services to evaluate the impact of removing the licensing examination requirement, focusing on workforce shortages, access to behavioral health services, and diversity within the social work profession. The evaluation must be submitted to relevant legislative committees by the year it is initiated. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2027, while the repeal of the previous examination requirements will be effective by December 31, 2030.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 112-131, 112-132, 112-136