Bill > H0322

This bill aims to strengthen social worker licensure requirements in Vermont by explicitly prohibiting individuals from using the title "social worker" or associated initials unless they have earned a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree from a social work program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE). The legislation applies to both public and private entities, preventing them from using the "social worker" title for employees who do not meet these educational standards. The bill modifies existing statutes to clarify that only those with CSWE-accredited degrees can represent themselves as social workers or advertise social work services. For licensed master's and independent clinical social workers, the bill specifies that their degree must come from a CSWE-accredited program, and violations of these provisions will be subject to penalties under Vermont state law. The new requirements will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving professionals and organizations time to comply with the updated regulations. The primary goal is to ensure that individuals using the social worker title have received appropriate, standardized professional education and training.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.322