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 are restricted from using the title unless it pertains to qualified employees.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to ensure that eligibility for licensure as a licensed masters social worker or licensed independent clinical social worker requires a degree from an accredited social work program. It removes previous language regarding accreditation and replaces it with a clear reference to the Council of Social Work Education. The bill also establishes penalties for violations of these provisions and sets an effective date of July 1, 2025, for the new regulations.

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