Maryland House Bill HB1120

Maryland 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/24
• Refer: 2/7/24

Caption

State Board of Social Work Examiners – Continuing Education Programs – Approval of Authorized Sponsors

Impact

The enactment of HB 1120 would directly influence the state laws governing social work licensure by providing clearer guidelines on the approval of continuing education. By establishing a more structured approval process, the bill aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of educational programs available to social workers. This could potentially ensure a higher standard of practice in the field, as social workers would be required to engage in ongoing professional learning that meets state-defined criteria.

Summary

House Bill 1120 addresses the requirements set by the State Board of Social Work Examiners regarding continuing education programs for social workers. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Board establishes a process to review and approve individuals or entities who seek to become authorized sponsors of these programs. This initiative is crucial for ensuring that social workers maintain their licenses through appropriate ongoing education. The bill emphasizes the importance of having multiple pathways for approval, making it more accessible for applicants who do not have a national or regional organization's endorsement.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill may arise from discussions about the requirements set for sponsors seeking approval. Critics could argue that imposing strict standards on authorized sponsors might limit options for social workers seeking continuing education, particularly for smaller organizations or those that operate locally. Additionally, there might be debates on whether the removal of the requirement for a national or regional endorsement might dilute the quality of continuing education offerings, as some may feel that national standards provide a necessary benchmark for educational relevance and rigor.