The bill amends the Professional Psychologist Act in New Mexico to expand the definition of "independently licensed prescribing clinician" to include certain prescribing psychologists who possess independent experience in prescribing psychotropic medication. Specifically, it adds the phrase "prescribing psychologist who has at least four years of independent experience in prescribing psychotropic medication to treat behavioral and emotional conditions and mental illness" to the existing definition, thereby recognizing the qualifications of these professionals in the context of prescribing practices.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the roles and definitions related to the practice of psychology, including terms such as "conditional prescription certificate," "prescribing psychologist," and "supervising clinician." These changes aim to enhance the regulatory framework governing the prescribing capabilities of psychologists, ensuring that they are adequately qualified to prescribe psychotropic medications under supervision, thereby improving access to mental health care services.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 61-9-3
Final Version: 61-9-3