H.B. No. 3503 introduces a new Subchapter M to Chapter 505 of the Occupations Code, establishing the Social Work Licensure Compact. This compact aims to enhance public access to competent social work services by facilitating the interstate practice of regulated social workers while maintaining state regulatory authority. Key objectives include increasing access to services, reducing duplicative licensing requirements, and promoting cooperation among member states. The bill outlines criteria for state participation, including the requirement for states to license and regulate social work and handle complaints against licensees. It also allows for the use of telehealth and the charging of fees for multistate licenses.

The bill creates the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the compact's administration, including rulemaking, investigations, and financial management. It establishes governance procedures for the Commission, including public access to meetings and financial responsibilities. The Commission is empowered to enforce the Compact and address defaults by member states, ensuring transparency and public participation in the rulemaking process. Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for member states to withdraw from the Compact and emphasizes the severability of its provisions, with an effective date set for September 1, 2025.

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