Bill > S03278

This bill establishes the licensure of school psychology practitioners, allowing individuals who are licensed or exempt to use the title "licensed school psychology practitioner" and defining the scope of their practice, which includes assessment, intervention, and consultation related to the learning, education, and adjustment needs of preschool and school-aged children and adolescents. To obtain a professional license, applicants must meet specific requirements, including completing at least sixty graduate semester hours in psychology with a master's degree in school psychology or its equivalent, a 1200-hour supervised internship, three thousand hours of post-master's supervised experience, passing an exam, being at least 21 years old, demonstrating good moral character, and paying a fee. The bill also outlines requirements for limited permits for those who meet most but not all licensure criteria, identifies individuals and professions exempt from these requirements, and mandates continuing education for licensed practitioners. Additionally, it amends existing laws to include licensed school psychology practitioners in reporting requirements for child abuse and maltreatment and to expand the composition of the state board for psychology.