Bill > S674

This bill establishes a new reciprocity framework for mental health professionals seeking to practice in North Carolina, allowing licensed mental health professionals from other states to obtain licensure more easily. Under the new law, qualified professionals such as clinical mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists can apply for licensure by meeting specific criteria, including: submitting an application to the appropriate licensing board, paying required fees, providing a social security number, demonstrating active practice in their profession for at least two of the past five years, and having no disqualifying disciplinary history. Applicants must be free of pending complaints in other jurisdictions, and licensing boards are required to respond to applications within 60 days, either issuing a license or explaining why an applicant does not qualify. The legislation, known as the "Mental Health Licensure Recognition Act," aims to improve access to mental health care by streamlining the licensure process for out-of-state professionals. Relevant licensing boards, including the Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors, North Carolina Psychology Board, North Carolina Marriage and Family Therapy Licensure Board, and the North Carolina Medical Board, are tasked with developing implementation rules. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2025, and does not invalidate existing interstate compacts or reciprocity agreements.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S674