Oklahoma House Bill HB2723

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/22/23
• Engrossed: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/30/23

Caption

Mental health; Interstate Licensed Professional Counselors Compact; purpose; definitions; requirements for state participation in the Compact; requirements for licensee to participate in Compact; requirements for licensee to obtain a new home state license based on participation in Compact; active duty military and their spouse; Compact privilege to practice telehealth; Counseling Compact Commission; requirements for Commission; rules; effective date.

Impact

In practical terms, HB 2723 would simplify the licensure process for professional counselors by enabling them to provide services remotely in other member states without needing to obtain additional licenses. The bill also establishes a Counseling Compact Commission, which will manage data systems for licensing and adverse actions and provide oversight of the compact's implementation. This organizational structure aims to enhance inter-state cooperation on counseling regulations and increase the efficiency of addressing public health and safety concerns regarding licensed counselors.

Summary

House Bill 2723 aims to establish the Interstate Licensed Professional Counselors Compact in Oklahoma. This compact is designed to facilitate interstate practice for licensed professional counselors, improving public access to counseling services while maintaining state regulatory authority. Under this bill, licensed counselors would be able to practice across member states with their existing licenses, streamlining the process for professionals who may relocate or provide services via telehealth. The bill emphasizes mutual recognition of licenses and seeks to address the unique needs of relocating active-duty military personnel and their spouses.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around HB 2723 appears largely positive, particularly among proponents who see value in enhanced access to counseling services. Supporters assert that the compact will not only help counselors but also benefit clients by ensuring greater availability of services across state lines. However, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of current standards in member states and the potential impact on the regulatory authority of individual states, sparking some debate amongst stakeholder groups and legislators alike.

Contention

Notable points of contention include worries about the compact's implications for maintaining high practice standards and accountability for counselors working across state lines. While the compact allows for an interconnected network, critics express concerns about enforcement of existing regulations, the uniformity of professional standards across states, and the handling of disciplinary actions. The effectiveness of the compact will depend on its implementation, and ongoing discussions highlight the need to balance accessibility with the rigorous standards needed to protect public health and safety.