Health occupations: counselors; limited license option for certain counselors; eliminate. Repeals sec. 18109 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18109).
Impact
The repeal of section 18109 could have wide-ranging implications for both practitioners and clients. For counselors, this change may simplify or complicate the process of obtaining and maintaining licensure, depending on what is instituted as an alternative. Furthermore, the repeal could impact the availability and quality of mental health services, as it may affect who can practice counseling and under what conditions. Stakeholders in the mental health community are likely to be keenly interested in these developments, as they directly relate to professional standards and client care in Michigan.
Summary
House Bill 4902 aims to amend the Public Health Code by repealing section 18109, which relates to the licensing of certain counselors. This legislation signifies a significant shift in the regulatory framework governing health occupations, specifically targeting the licensing provisions that impact various counseling practices. By eliminating this specific section, the bill could potentially alter the pathways for counselors seeking licenses and the criteria they must meet, reflecting changes in the regulatory landscape for health professionals in the state.
Contention
The debate surrounding HB 4902 is likely to center on the implications of removing established licensing provisions. Proponents of the bill may argue that the repeal is a necessary step towards modernizing the public health framework and enhancing access to mental health services. Critics, however, could raise concerns about the potential risks involved in deregulating the counseling profession, including the implications for client safety and the professionalization of counseling practices. What emerges from these discussions will be crucial in determining the future landscape of mental health services in the state.
Health occupations: counselors; reference to limited licensed counselor; modify to limited licensed professional counselor. Amends secs. 16281, 16905, 18101, 18105, 18106, 18111, 18114 & 18117 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16281 et seq.).
Health occupations: physical therapists; prescription requirement for physical therapy treatment; eliminate, and make other modifications to the practice of physical therapy. Amends secs. 17801, 17820 & 17824 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.17801 et seq.) & repeals sec. 17819 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.17819).
Health occupations: occupational therapists; licensure process for occupational therapists; modify to incorporate occupational therapy licensure compact. Amends sec. 18301 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18301) & adds secs. 18303a & 18303b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4169'23
Health: abortion; occupational code; revise to reflect repealed abortion laws. Amends sec. 1810 of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.1810). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0474'23
Health occupations: social workers; social work licensure requirements; modify, and include licensure for licensed clinical social workers. Amends secs. 16177, 16348, 18101 & 18501 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16177 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5184'23
Occupations: licensing fees; licensing fees related to certain occupations; eliminate sunset. Amends secs. 13, 17, 21, 25, 27, 31, 37 & 38 of 1979 PA 152 (MCL 338.2213 et seq.).
Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; certain temporary licenses; modify terms. Amends sec. 20952 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20952). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4614'23
Health occupations: physical therapists; licensing process; modify to incorporate physical therapy licensing compact. Amends sec. 17801 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.17801) & adds secs. 17820a & 17820b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4504'23