The bill amends section 18509 of the Public Health Code to update the requirements for individuals seeking licensure as social workers in Michigan. It specifies that a licensed bachelor's social worker must have a bachelor's degree in social work from an approved program and at least two years of supervised post-bachelor's experience. The bill changes the language regarding supervision, replacing "shall" with "must" and clarifying that supervision must be provided by an individual with a master's or doctoral degree in social work. Similar updates are made for licensed master's social workers, emphasizing the need for supervision by qualified individuals and the requirement for school social workers to meet additional criteria set forth in the revised school code.

Additionally, the bill allows the board to grant a limited license for individuals who have completed the educational requirements for licensure but have not yet completed the required post-degree experience. This limited license can now be renewed for up to ten years, an increase from the previous six-year limit. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the qualifications and supervision standards for social workers in Michigan, ensuring that they are adequately prepared for their roles in the field.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.18509