The bill H.322 aims to strengthen the licensure requirements for social workers in Vermont by prohibiting the use of the title "social worker" and related advertising unless the individual is licensed under 26 V.S.A. chapter 61. It specifies that only those who have earned a degree from a social work program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education or its successor can use the title or advertise their services as a social worker. The bill also clarifies that neither state agencies nor private entities can use the title unless the individual holds the appropriate accredited degree.

Additionally, the bill amends existing legal language to reinforce these requirements, including the deletion of previous provisions that allowed for broader use of the title without the specified accreditation. It establishes penalties for violations of these provisions and sets an effective date for the act to take effect on July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill seeks to ensure that only qualified individuals can represent themselves as social workers, thereby enhancing the professionalism and integrity of the field.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 26-3202, 26-3205, 26-3205a