Bill > HB5421

This bill modifies the regulation of marriage and family therapists in Texas by making several key changes to the licensing process and requirements. The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council will now have more flexibility in determining qualifications for marriage and family therapist licenses, with the board taking on a more prominent role in proposing rules about license eligibility, practice standards, and continuing education. The bill simplifies and updates requirements for obtaining a license as a marriage and family therapist associate, removing some specific criminal history restrictions and allowing the board more discretion in evaluating applicants' qualifications. The legislation also introduces provisions for reciprocal licensing with other jurisdictions, allowing the executive council to establish agreements for license recognition if other jurisdictions have substantially equivalent licensing requirements. Additionally, the bill changes how licenses are renewed, removes certain previous licensing provisions, and provides a transition period for existing license applications. The changes aim to streamline the licensing process, provide more administrative flexibility, and potentially make it easier for qualified professionals from other states to obtain licensure in Texas. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the required immediate voting support.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5421