PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1091

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1091

Introduced
3/11/24  

Caption

Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Recreational Therapist"; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice.

Impact

The proposed changes would significantly impact the landscape of mental health and social services in Pennsylvania. By tightening the definitions and requirements for various professions, the bill aims to reduce instances of unlicensed practice. Furthermore, it introduces civil penalties for violations, including a fine of up to $10,000 for unauthorized practice. This shift reflects a legislative emphasis on safeguarding public health by ensuring that only qualified individuals are providing critical social and therapeutic services.

Summary

Senate Bill 1091 aims to amend the existing legislation governing the practice of social work, marriage and family therapy, recreational therapy, and professional counseling in Pennsylvania. The bill's objective is to enhance the regulatory framework by updating definitions, establishing licensing requirements, and clarifying the powers of the State Board responsible for overseeing these professions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of professional practice, thereby ensuring public safety and welfare by regulating who can engage in these services.

Sentiment

Feedback and sentiment surrounding SB1091 appear to be generally supportive among professional bodies, as they recognize the need for clear standards in licensing and practice. Supporters argue that this bill will strengthen the integrity of these professions, improving service delivery to the public. However, there may be concerns from some practitioners regarding the feasibility of meeting enhanced requirements, potentially leading to apprehension about their ability to practice legally.

Contention

Notably, contention may arise surrounding the implementation of stricter licensing requirements and civil penalties for violations. Some professionals argue that the amendments might create barriers for entry into the field, particularly for those newly entering the profession or those with less traditional backgrounds. Additionally, the requirement for substantial documentation of qualifications, especially for out-of-state licenses, might be seen as overly burdensome, raising questions about reciprocity and mobility for licensed professionals across state lines.

Latest SB1091 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

PA HB1564

Further providing for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist" and for restrictions on the use of title "Licensed Associate Professional Counselor"; further providing for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice; and providing for effect of associate licensure.

PA HB563

Providing for licensing and regulating the practice of music therapy; and making editorial changes.

PA SB579

Providing for licensing and regulating the practice of music therapy; and making editorial changes.

PA SB786

Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for exemption from licensure examination, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restriction on use of title "licensed professional art therapist" and related titles; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal, records and fees and for unlawful practice.

PA HB1398

Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for exemption from licensure examination, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restriction on use of title "licensed professional art therapist" and related titles; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal, records and fees and for unlawful practice.

PA SB898

Further providing for licensing and regulating the practice of music therapy; and making editorial changes.

PA HB1356

Further providing for licensing and regulating the practice of music therapy; and making editorial changes.

PA SB1019

Further providing for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist" and for restrictions on the use of title "Licensed Associate Professional Counselor"; further providing for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice; and providing for effect of associate licensure.