The bill proposes two significant changes to existing licensure requirements defined under chapter 465D of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. Firstly, it aims to make permanent the existing exemption from behavior analyst licensing for teachers who work collaboratively with licensed behavior analysts or licensed psychologists. Secondly, it seeks to eliminate the exemption previously provided to direct support workers, establishing that registered behavior technicians can implement applied behavior analysis services under the guidance of licensed psychologists.
Summary
House Bill 1042 addresses the growing difficulty in attracting and retaining qualified licensed behavior analysts within Hawaii's public school system. The legislation emphasizes the need for adequate support in education for students requiring behavior analysis services. This demand comes as current staff shortages impede the effective delivery of such services, necessitating the utilization of contracted services that bear high costs for the department of education.
Contention
While proponents argue that these changes are essential for expanding the pool of qualified personnel available to support students, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of training and oversight provided to those who will now be more actively involved in implementing behavior analysis services. Critics might highlight the potential risks associated with having less strictly licensed personnel directly participating in these vital educational supports, stressing the importance of maintaining high standards of care and effectiveness in behavior analysis.