summary
Introduced
02/02/2026
02/02/2026
In Committee
02/19/2026
02/19/2026
Crossed Over
02/18/2026
02/18/2026
Passed
04/01/2026
04/01/2026
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
04/01/2026
04/01/2026
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT to amend and reenact §30-30-3 and §30-30-5 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended; and to amend the code by adding a new article, designated §30-30A-1, §30-30A-2, §30-30A-3, §30-30A-4, §30-30A-5, §30-30A-6, §30-30A-7, §30-30A-8, §30-30A-9, §30-30A-10, §30-30A-11, §30-30A-12, §30-30A-13, §30-30A-14, §30-30A-15, and §30-30A-16, relating to adopting the Social Work Licensure Compact; establishing purpose; defining terms; establishing requirements for state participation in compact; establishing requirements for a social worker participating in the compact; providing procedure for issuance of multistate license; establishing the authority of the compact on member states; stating process for reissuance of license by new home state; providing for treatment of licenses for military members; describing authority of remote and home states to take adverse action against licensee; creating the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission; establishing commission membership, duties, and powers; providing for the creation of a data system to be utilized by members states; authorizing rulemaking; providing for oversight, dispute resolution, and enforcement of compact; specifying effective date; providing for construction and severability; providing for consistent effect; mandating that provisions of compact supersede when in conflict with other state laws; adding definition; and authorizing Board of Social Work to require criminal history record checks for applicants for compact participation.
AI Summary
This bill adopts the Social Work Licensure Compact, which establishes a framework for social workers to practice across state lines more easily. The Compact aims to increase access to social work services, reduce redundant licensing requirements, and improve public safety by allowing licensed social workers to practice in any member state with a single multistate license, provided they meet the requirements of their "home state" (where they reside). It creates a Social Work Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the agreement, establishes criteria for states to join and maintain membership, and outlines the qualifications and responsibilities of social workers participating in the Compact. The bill also details procedures for issuing multistate licenses, handling adverse actions (like license suspension or revocation) by both home and remote states, and establishes a data system for sharing relevant information among member states. Importantly, the Compact prioritizes the regulatory authority of individual states while promoting interstate practice, and its provisions will supersede conflicting state laws. The bill also includes provisions for military families, dispute resolution, and the effective date of the Compact.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Approved by Governor 4/1/2026 (on 04/01/2026)
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