Bill > SB498

This bill establishes the Licensed Professional Counselors Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to facilitate interstate practice for licensed professional counselors. The compact aims to increase public access to counseling services by creating a system where counselors can practice across member states using a "Privilege to Practice" mechanism. Under this system, a counselor licensed in their home state can practice in other member states without obtaining additional licenses, provided they meet specific requirements such as having an unencumbered license, paying applicable fees, and adhering to the laws of the remote state where they are providing services. The compact creates a Counseling Compact Commission to oversee implementation, which will develop and maintain a data system to track licensure information, adverse actions, and investigations. The compact also supports military personnel and their spouses by allowing them to maintain a home state license during relocation, establishes standards for telehealth services, and provides a framework for interstate investigation and discipline of counselors. Member states must meet certain licensing requirements, such as requiring a master's degree in counseling and a national exam, and will contribute to and have access to a shared data system. The compact becomes effective when ten states have enacted it into law, and states can withdraw with a six-month notice period.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB498