Bill > HB2473

This bill establishes the Social Work Licensure Compact, a comprehensive interstate agreement designed to streamline professional licensing for social workers across participating states. The compact aims to improve public access to social work services by creating a multistate licensing system that reduces bureaucratic barriers for qualified professionals. Under this agreement, social workers who meet specific national standards can obtain a multistate license that allows them to practice in multiple member states without having to acquire individual state licenses. The bill covers three licensure categories: bachelor's, master's, and clinical social work, each with distinct educational and professional requirements. Key provisions include establishing a Social Work Licensure Compact Commission to oversee implementation, creating a centralized data system for tracking licensees, defining disciplinary procedures, and setting standards for interstate practice. The compact preserves each state's regulatory authority to protect public health and safety while facilitating professional mobility, supporting military families, and enabling telehealth services. It also includes mechanisms for investigating complaints, sharing investigative information between states, and maintaining professional standards across jurisdictions. The compact will become effective once seven states have enacted the legislation, and member states can withdraw with a 180-day notice period.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2473&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104