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 state agencies and private entities must adhere to these requirements when employing individuals in social work roles.

Additionally, the bill amends existing legal language to reinforce these regulations. It removes previous provisions regarding penalties for violations and introduces new language that outlines the educational requirements for licensure, specifically mandating that applicants must have degrees from accredited programs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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