Bill > SB140

This bill adopts the Social Work Licensure Compact, a comprehensive interstate agreement designed to streamline social work licensing across multiple states. The compact creates a multistate license that allows qualified social workers to practice in participating states without obtaining separate licenses for each state, while maintaining robust public protection mechanisms. Under this compact, social workers can obtain a multistate license in their home state that allows them to practice in other member states, provided they meet specific educational, examination, and professional conduct requirements. The bill establishes a Social Work Licensure Compact Commission to oversee implementation, which will manage a centralized data system tracking licensee information, adverse actions, and disciplinary records. Key provisions include defining different license categories (bachelor's, master's, and clinical), establishing eligibility criteria for multistate licenses, creating uniform reporting and investigative protocols, and ensuring that social workers adhere to the laws and regulations of the state where they are providing services. The compact aims to increase public access to social work services, reduce licensing bureaucracy, address workforce shortages, support military families, and facilitate professional mobility while maintaining high standards of professional practice and public safety.

Health and Social Services

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0635