Bill > HB1483

This bill modifies existing Maryland law concerning clinical professional counseling and social work services provided through telehealth, which is the delivery of health services remotely using telecommunications technology. Specifically, it repeals the authority of the State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists to issue a temporary telehealth license, which was a short-term license for out-of-state providers to offer counseling to students in Maryland. Instead, the bill creates an exemption from certain state licensure requirements for individuals already licensed in another state who are providing counseling through telehealth to clients in Maryland. This exemption applies when a client has an established relationship with the counselor outside of Maryland and then relocates to Maryland, allowing the counselor to continue providing care for up to six months to ensure continuity of care. The bill also makes a similar provision for social workers, allowing out-of-state licensed social workers to provide telehealth services to clients who have relocated to Maryland for up to six months for continuity of care. This change aims to streamline the process for out-of-state licensed professionals to continue serving their existing clients who move to Maryland, without requiring them to obtain a full Maryland license immediately.