Bill > S252

This bill establishes the Social Work Licensure Compact, a comprehensive interstate agreement designed to facilitate the practice of social work across multiple states. The compact creates a system where licensed social workers can obtain a multistate license that allows them to practice in any member state, reducing bureaucratic barriers and improving access to social work services. To qualify for a multistate license, social workers must meet specific educational requirements based on their practice level (bachelor's, master's, or clinical), pass a national exam, and maintain an unencumbered license in their home state. The bill creates a Social Work Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the implementation of the compact, which will manage a centralized data system, establish uniform standards, and coordinate investigations and disciplinary actions across member states. The compact aims to increase public access to social work services, reduce duplicative licensing requirements, support military families, enhance workforce mobility, and provide a mechanism for sharing critical information about licensees between states. Each member state will have a delegate on the commission, and the compact will come into effect once seven states have enacted the legislation. The bill ensures that social workers will be held accountable to the laws and regulations of the state where they are providing services, while streamlining the process of practicing across state lines.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S252