Indiana 2023 Regular Session

Indiana Senate Bill SB0198

Introduced
1/10/23  

Caption

Professional counselors licensure compact.

Impact

If enacted, SB0198 would revise current statutes concerning professional counseling licensure by enabling licensed counselors to practice across state lines. The adoption of the compact is expected to streamline the licensure process and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for counselors moving between states. This will be particularly beneficial for military families, as it allows spouses of active-duty military personnel to continue practicing without facing significant licensing barriers when changing states. Additionally, this compact will promote the use of telehealth services, increasing access for clients regardless of their location.

Summary

Senate Bill 0198 aims to establish the Professional Counselors Licensure Compact, which will facilitate the interstate practice of licensed professional counselors. The bill seeks to enhance public access to professional counseling services by allowing counselors licensed in their home states to practice in other member states through mutual recognition of licenses. This compact addresses the need for uniform regulatory requirements, thereby improving the ability of states to safeguard public health and safety while retaining their regulatory authority.

Contention

There may be notable concerns regarding how SB0198 will maintain the standards for counseling practices and protect consumer safety while allowing for interstate practice. Critics may argue that the compact could lead to uneven quality of services if states have varying licensure requirements. Furthermore, maintaining the integrity of public safety through effective monitoring and investigation of licensed professionals will be paramount to the success of the compact and to ensure that the rights of clients and counselors are adequately safeguarded.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IN SB0160

Professional counselors licensure compact.

IN HB1397

Professional counselors licensure compact.

IN HB1612

Professional counselors licensure compact.

IN HB1202

Professional counselors licensure compact.

IN H1521

Professional Counselors Licensure Compact

IN HB2687

Licensed professional counselors; licensure compact

IN HB5289

Relating to the professional counselors licensure compact.

IN SB802

Counseling Compact; licensure of professional counselors.

IN HB1433

Counseling Compact; licensure of professional counselors.

IN HB2229

Counseling Compact; licensure of professional counselors.

Similar Bills

CA AB2566

Healing arts: counseling.

NJ S3061

Enters New Jersey into Counseling Compact.

NJ A5311

Enters New Jersey into Counseling Compact.

WV SB213

Establishing licensed professional counseling compact

MS HB1056

Professional Counseling Compact; create.

TX HB5289

Relating to the professional counselors licensure compact.

MI HB4591

Health occupations: counselors; professional counselors licensure compact; provide for. Amends sec. 18101 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18101) & adds secs. 16190a & 18105a.

HI SB322

Relating To The Interstate Licensed Professional Counselors Compact.