New Jersey Senate Bill S1049

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Makes it a crime of the third degree to practice psychology without a license and prohibits certain unlicensed employees of certain entities from using title of psychologist.

Impact

The bill amends existing legislation from 1966 (P.L.1966, c.282) that governs the licensing of psychologists in New Jersey. Among its provisions, it specifies the actions that constitute practicing psychology without a license, including holding oneself out as a licensed psychologist and engaging in activities that require licensure. Additionally, it clarifies that unlicensed individuals who perform certain duties within accredited educational institutions or governmental agencies may not use the title 'psychologist' unless they are properly licensed, thereby enforcing greater transparency in professional titles.

Summary

Senate Bill S1049 addresses the issue of unlicensed psychological practice in New Jersey. It proposes that any individual practicing psychology without a proper license is guilty of a crime of the third degree. This extends existing penalties, which previously applied to other professions such as medicine or dentistry, to the field of psychology. The intent is to protect consumers by ensuring that only qualified individuals are allowed to provide psychological services and that those who misrepresent their qualifications are held accountable under the law.

Contention

Some notable points of contention surrounding S1049 include concerns about the enforcement aspects and the potential impact on individuals working in community service roles that involve psychological support but do not fall under traditional licensed psychology. Critics may argue that while the intent to protect consumers is sound, stringent enforcement could inadvertently penalize individuals who provide valuable services without formal licensure. The discussion of whether the bill adequately balances the need for public safety with accessibility of mental health services remains a topic for debate.