Bill > H1423

This bill introduces several changes to social work licensing and support in Massachusetts. First, it removes the requirement for social workers to pass a board-prepared examination for licensing. Second, it establishes a paid practicum placement grant program for Master of Social Work (MSW) students, with a specific focus on recruiting and retaining students from historically marginalized and low-income communities. The program will be funded through state, federal, or dedicated resources and will only be available to students attending Massachusetts-based, Council on Social Work Education-accredited programs. Additionally, the bill allows licensed independent clinical social workers to receive up to 8 continuing education credits for providing one-on-one supervision to other social work professionals and interns. The legislation also mandates that the executive office of health and human services conduct an evaluation of the licensing examination removal, which will assess potential impacts on social worker shortages, access to behavioral health services, workforce diversity, and patient care, particularly for vulnerable populations. The evaluation will involve consulting with various stakeholders and must be submitted to relevant legislative committees.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1423