The bill enacts the Counseling Compact, creating a framework for the licensure and practice of professional counselors across participating states. It defines key terms such as "active duty military," "adverse action," and "licensed professional counselor," and sets forth requirements for states to join the compact, including the regulation of counselors, the use of a nationally recognized exam, and adherence to specific educational and experience criteria. The compact facilitates the recognition of licenses across member states, allowing licensed counselors to practice in multiple states while complying with local laws. It also addresses the rights of active duty military members and their spouses regarding licensure and establishes procedures for handling adverse actions against counselors.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Counseling Compact Commission to oversee joint investigations and share investigative materials among member states. It mandates that if a home state takes adverse action against a counselor, their privilege to practice in all member states will be suspended until the matter is resolved. The commission will consist of delegates from each member state's licensing board and will have the authority to create bylaws, maintain financial records, and enforce compliance with the compact's provisions. Notably, the bill introduces a new requirement for licensure, stating that applicants must complete a master's or doctoral program with a minimum of sixty graduate semester hours in the mental health clinical core curriculum, thereby raising educational standards for counselors practicing across state lines.

Statutes affected:
JC substitute: 61-9A-10, 61-9A-11