The proposed bill enacts the Social Work Licensure Compact, which aims to streamline the interstate practice of regulated social workers by establishing a multistate license. This compact is intended to enhance public access to social work services, alleviate the burden of maintaining multiple licenses, and bolster the ability of member states to safeguard public health and safety. It includes provisions for the exchange of licensure and disciplinary information among member states, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations. The bill also outlines eligibility requirements for social workers seeking a multistate license, including holding an unencumbered license in their home state, passing a national exam, and meeting educational and practice standards.
Additionally, the bill creates the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the administration of the compact and is empowered to establish rules, conduct investigations, and manage finances. The commission will hold annual meetings and ensure transparency in its operations, while also providing immunity from liability for its members in the course of their duties. The bill includes guidelines for licensees practicing in remote states, requiring compliance with local laws, and clarifies that conflicting state laws are superseded by the compact. Furthermore, it specifies that Section 1 of the bill will be codified as part of Title 37, chapter 39, integrating the new legal framework into existing state law.