Mississippi House Bill HB19

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/24
• Refer: 1/17/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Licensed professional counselors; revise qualifications for licensure for applicants who meet certain requirements.

Impact

The bill specifically revises Section 73-30-9 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to streamline the licensing process and alleviate barriers for potential candidates. By acknowledging experience gained through working under a board-approved site, the bill intends to foster greater inclusivity within the profession, permitting individuals without a traditional educational pathway to attain licensure, as long as they meet prescribed conditions.

Summary

House Bill 19 amends the qualifications for licensure as a licensed professional counselor in Mississippi. It allows individuals who have completed certification requirements by the State Department of Mental Health and have two years of experience providing direct counseling services at a board-approved site to be licensed, thereby expanding the pool of qualified counselors in the state. This change is aimed at addressing the growing need for mental health services by making it easier for competent individuals to enter the profession.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB19 may arise from its potential impact on professional standards within the counseling field. Critics might argue that allowing licensees with two years of experience, bypassing certain educational requirements, could dilute the quality of counseling services provided to the public. Supporters contend that this flexibility is necessary in the face of a counseling workforce shortage and the increasing demand for mental health services across the state.