The proposed bill establishes the "Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact," designed to facilitate the licensure process for social workers across participating states. It introduces new definitions and requirements, mandating that applicants for a multistate license hold an active unencumbered license in their home state, undergo criminal background checks, and meet continuing education standards. The bill also creates a "social work licensure compact commission" to oversee the compact's implementation, enforce regulations, and manage adverse actions against multistate licenses. Additionally, it allows active military members and their spouses to designate a home state for their multistate license, ensuring they can retain it during active duty.

Moreover, the bill amends the Social Work Practice Act to clarify the definition of practicing social work and enhance the authority of the licensing board. It specifies that practicing social work includes advertising services and being employed in a social work position, while also expanding the definition to incorporate New Mexico cultures in social work practices. The board is granted additional powers, including establishing procedures for criminal background checks and issuing provisional licenses. Overall, the bill aims to improve the mobility of social workers while ensuring public safety and ethical practice through rigorous licensing standards and cultural considerations.

Statutes affected:
JU substitute: 61-31-6, 61-31-8