The bill amends the Professional Psychologists Practice Act in Pennsylvania to establish a framework for prescribing psychologists, introducing new definitions such as "prescribing psychologist," "prescription certificate," and "psychotropic medication." It sets forth qualifications for obtaining a prescription certificate, which include holding a doctoral-level license, a master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology, and completing supervised clinical training. Additionally, the bill requires prescribing psychologists to maintain a collaborative relationship with primary care providers to ensure comprehensive patient care and mandates obtaining a release of information from patients before contacting these providers.

Moreover, the legislation expands the State Board of Psychology from nine to eleven members, ensuring representation of licensed psychologists, including at least two prescribing psychologists. It grants the board additional powers to oversee the qualifications of prescribing psychologists and maintain a list of them. The bill also updates provisions related to the refusal, suspension, or revocation of licenses, expanding grounds for disciplinary action to include issues with prescribing certificates, and specifies penalties for unlawful practice. The State Board of Psychology is tasked with creating necessary regulations to implement these changes within one year of the act's effective date.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 2171 (Jul 24, 2025): P.L.136, No.52