The bill, S.B. No. 51, amends various sections of the Occupations Code related to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers in Texas. Key changes include the clarification of the roles and responsibilities of the executive council and the board, with the executive council now tasked with determining qualifications and fitness for license applicants, while the board proposes rules regarding licensing qualifications, scope of practice, and continuing education requirements. The bill also introduces provisions for out-of-state applicants, allowing those licensed in good standing in another state to count their experience towards Texas licensing requirements, and waiving examination requirements under certain conditions.

Additionally, the bill specifies eligibility criteria for licensed marriage and family therapist associates and licensed marriage and family therapists, including age, educational background, and work experience. It allows for the issuance of provisional licenses and establishes a framework for the board to create an associate license for individuals who meet academic requirements and enter into supervisory agreements. The changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to applications submitted after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 502.151, Occupations Code 502.252, Occupations Code 502.2545, Occupations Code 502.259, Occupations Code 503.201, Occupations Code 503.2015, Occupations Code 503.302, Occupations Code 503.3025, Occupations Code 503.308, Occupations Code 505.3575 (Occupations Code 505, Occupations Code 502, Occupations Code 503)