Assembly Bill 492 aims to establish a formal licensing framework for music therapists in Wisconsin, replacing the current registration system with a licensing model. The bill mandates that individuals seeking a music therapy license must provide proof of current board certification from the Certification Board for Music Therapists and possess at least a bachelor's degree in music therapy or its equivalent. Additionally, the bill creates the Music Therapy Examining Board, which will oversee the licensure process and ensure compliance with practice requirements. It also explicitly defines the practice of music therapy and prohibits individuals from practicing or using the title of music therapist without a valid license.

Furthermore, the bill eliminates the option for music therapists to obtain a separate psychotherapy license, as psychotherapy is not included in the defined scope of practice for music therapy. It also significantly increases the penalties for practicing without a license, raising the maximum fine from $200 to $10,000 and the maximum imprisonment from six months to nine months. The bill does not affect the existing laws regarding dance and art therapists, and it includes various amendments to existing statutes to accommodate these changes.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 15.08(1m)(b), 15.08, 440.03(13)(b)39, 440.03, 440.03(14)(a)1, 440.03(14)(b), 440.03(14)(c), 440.03(14)(d), 440.08(2)(a)67v, 440.08, 440.08(2)(a)67x, 457.02(6)(b)1, 457.02