Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes the adoption of the Social Work Licensure Compact in Montana, which aims to facilitate the interstate practice of regulated social workers. The compact is designed to enhance public access to social work services, reduce the burden of holding multiple licenses, and improve the ability of member states to protect public health and safety. It establishes a framework for mutual recognition of licenses among member states, allowing social workers to practice across state lines while adhering to the laws and regulations of the state where the client is located. The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria for member states and social workers seeking a multistate license, including requirements for accredited educational programs and mechanisms for investigating complaints.

Additionally, the bill creates the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the administration of the compact and is granted powers such as establishing rules and conducting investigations. It includes provisions for indemnifying commission members against legal claims, while clarifying that it does not limit the liability of licensees for professional malpractice. The bill also mandates compliance with the laws of the remote state where services are provided and ensures that any conflicting laws in member states are superseded by the compact. Furthermore, it includes a new section indicating the intention for the provisions to be codified as part of Title 37, chapter 39, integrating the new legal framework into the existing legal structure governing multistate practice.