Bill > A01745

This bill establishes a new profession in New York State called "licensed school psychology practitioner," allowing individuals with specific qualifications to provide services related to children's learning, education, and adjustment needs. To become a licensed school psychology practitioner, individuals must meet requirements including a master's degree in school psychology or its equivalent, at least sixty graduate semester hours in psychology with specific coursework, a 1200-hour supervised internship, 3000 hours of post-master's supervised experience, pass an exam, be at least 21 years old, and pay associated fees. The bill also outlines the scope of practice, which includes assessments, psycho-educational interventions, counseling, and consultation, and clarifies that these practitioners cannot prescribe medication or perform invasive procedures. It also provides for limited permits for those who meet most but not all requirements, exempts certain existing professionals from needing this specific license, and mandates continuing education for renewal. Furthermore, licensed school psychology practitioners will be included in the list of mandated reporters for child abuse and maltreatment, and their representation will be added to the State Board for Psychology.