The bill amends Minnesota Statutes to remove the exemption for county social workers from the requirement to be licensed if they present themselves to the public using titles that include "social work" or "social worker." Specifically, it stipulates that city, county, or state agency social workers who do not possess a baccalaureate or graduate degree in social work, or who are not licensed under the relevant chapter, cannot use these titles. This change aims to ensure that only qualified individuals are represented as social workers to the public.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that no individual may be represented by titles incorporating "social work" or "social worker" unless they are employed by a county and hold the appropriate degree in social work. It also reinforces the requirement for licensed social workers to use specific license designations in their professional titles and prohibits misleading or deceptive practices in advertising and public statements. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the integrity and professionalism of social work in Minnesota by tightening the regulations surrounding the use of professional titles.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 148E.065, 148E.195, 148E.280