Kansas Senate Bill SB176

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23
• Refer: 2/8/23
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Increasing the membership of the behavioral sciences regulatory board, decreasing the years of practice required for reciprocity licensure of certain professions, extending the license period for temporary licenses, establishing new license categories, providing additional continuing education requirements and requiring that clinical social work supervisors be approved by the board.

Impact

This legislative change would amend multiple sections of the existing K.S.A. statutes, thereby modernizing the licensure process and ensuring that supervision standards are favorable for both new entrants into the field and existing practitioners. The requirement for clinical social work supervisors to be board-approved is particularly significant as it aims to enhance the quality of supervision and mentorship within the field. Continuing education requirements have also been expanded, which proponents argue will help maintain high standards among professionals in the behavioral sciences.

Summary

SB176 aims to enhance the effectiveness of the behavioral sciences regulatory board by increasing its membership and updating various licensing provisions for professionals such as counselors, social workers, psychologists, and behavior analysts. The bill specifically decreases the years of required practice for reciprocity licensure, which is anticipated to simplify the process for professionals looking to practice in Kansas while holding licenses from other jurisdictions. Additionally, the bill introduces new license categories for applicants from programs that are currently in candidacy for accreditation.

Contention

While the bill has received support for seeking to streamline practices and enhance public trust in behavioral health services, there are arguments regarding the implementation challenges of the new continuing education requirements and the implications of establishing additional licensing categories. Opponents are concerned that decreasing the years of required practice for licensure might compromise the integrity of the professions involved, as less experienced individuals could be pursuing clinical opportunities without adequate preparation. Furthermore, clarity will be needed on how new regulations are enforced to ensure they meet the expected outcomes for professional licensure.