Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1187

Introduced
1/22/25  
Refer
1/22/25  
Report Pass
3/31/25  
Engrossed
4/1/25  
Refer
4/1/25  
Report Pass
4/9/25  
Enrolled
4/14/25  
Enrolled
4/15/25  
Chaptered
4/17/25  

Caption

To Authorize A Licensure By Endorsement For Marriage And Family Therapists.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1187 would amend existing laws about counseling licensure, particularly concerning the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling's authority. The legislation would provide a pathway for therapists who are already licensed in another state to obtain licensure in Arkansas more efficiently, allowing them to begin practicing sooner. This could alleviate some of the barriers that therapists face when relocating to Arkansas and potentially enhance the availability of mental health services for residents across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1187 aims to facilitate the licensure process for marriage and family therapists in Arkansas by establishing a system of licensure by endorsement. This legislative measure allows licensed marriage and family therapists from other states to practice in Arkansas without having to undergo additional examinations, provided their qualifications meet or exceed Arkansas standards. By streamlining the licensure process, the bill seeks to attract qualified professionals, thus potentially addressing the growing need for mental health services in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1187 appears to be largely positive. Proponents emphasize its potential to improve access to mental health care by reducing licensure obstacles and attracting skilled professionals. This reflects a broader recognition of the importance of mental health therapy and a commitment to ensuring that individuals have access to necessary services. However, there may be underlying concerns from some stakeholders regarding the adequacy of licensure standards and the implications of allowing out-of-state therapists to practice without rigorous testing.

Contention

Despite the overall support for the bill, there are notable points of contention regarding the adequacy of the licensure standards required in other states. Some opponents might argue that reciprocity without comprehensive evaluations could risk the quality of care received by patients. Additionally, the implications for current licensed professionals within Arkansas raise questions about potential impacts on job opportunities and competition within the local landscape of mental health services.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB42

To Amend The Practice And Regulation Of Counseling And Marriage And Family Therapy; And To Remove The Requirements For Full-time Employment And For Seeking Additional Training And Specializations.

AR HB1359

To Abolish Certain Boards; To Create The Arkansas State Board Of Mental Health Professionals; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB90

To Create The Automatic Occupational Licensure For Out-of-state Licensure Act.

AR HB1271

To Amend The Prior Authorization Transparency Act; And To Exempt Certain Healthcare Providers That Provide Certain Healthcare Services From Prior Authorization Requirements.

AR HB1082

To Establish The Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact In Arkansas.

AR HB1422

To Enact The Preceptor Tax Incentive Program; And To Provide Incentives For Certain Medical Or Counseling Professionals To Train Students Who Are Learning To Become Medical Or Counseling Professionals.

AR SB527

To Impose Additional Requirements For Entering Into And Dissolving A Covenant Marriage.

AR HB1446

To Provide State Oversight Of Quality Of Care Provided To Children In Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities And Other Regulated Facilities.

AR HB1302

To Offer And Ensure Coverage Of Traumatic Event Licensed Counseling For Public Safety Employees; And To Require A Study Of Availability For Peer Support Access For Volunteer Firefighters.

AR HB1463

Concerning State Board Of Education Rules For A Tiered System Of Educator Licensure; And To Amend The Law Concerning The Type Of License Issued To Certain Applicants In An Alternative Educator Preparation Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.