The proposed bill establishes the "Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact," which aims to streamline the practice of social work across state lines by creating a framework for multistate licensing. It introduces new definitions and requirements for member states, mandating that they license social work at various levels (clinical, master's, and bachelor's) and conduct criminal history background checks for applicants seeking multistate licenses. The bill outlines eligibility criteria for social workers, including the completion of accredited educational programs and passing national exams, while allowing member states to enforce their own regulations and take adverse actions against licenses as necessary.

Additionally, the bill creates the "Social Work Licensure Compact Commission," which will oversee the compact's administration, establish rules, and manage financial operations. It introduces a coordinated data system for tracking multistate license applicants and requires member states to submit uniform data sets. The bill also clarifies enforcement mechanisms, including the ability to terminate a member state's participation for noncompliance and allows for withdrawal from the compact with notice. Furthermore, it amends the Social Work Practice Act to enhance the authority of the licensing board, requiring criminal history checks and promoting gender-neutral language in legal references.

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