The bill, S.B. No. 51, aims to amend the licensing requirements for marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers in Texas, including provisions for out-of-state applicants. 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 will propose rules regarding licensing qualifications, scope of practice, and continuing education requirements. The bill also introduces new provisions allowing applicants licensed in good standing in other states to count their out-of-state experience towards Texas licensing requirements, thereby streamlining the process for qualified professionals relocating to Texas.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing language to enhance clarity and consistency, such as replacing references to the "executive council" with "board" in various sections. It establishes criteria for waiving examination requirements for applicants with equivalent experience from other states and allows for the issuance of provisional licenses under specific conditions. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to applications submitted after that date, ensuring a smooth transition for current applicants under the existing law.

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)