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HF 255

A bill for an act enacting the psychology interjurisdictional compact.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Bergan and 3 co-sponsors

HF 255 allows licensed psychologists to provide telepsychology across state lines, improving access to mental health care and enhancing public safety and accountability.

Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services.
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Bill Summary · HF 255

Summary of Bill HF 255: Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HF 255
- Title: A bill for an act enacting the psychology interjurisdictional compact
- Status: Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services
- Introduced Date: February 06, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject Areas: Compacts, confidentiality, health-related professions, interstate agreements, psychology, Telehealth

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of HF 255 is to establish a framework for the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PIC), which is designed to enhance access to psychological services across state lines. This compact will facilitate the practice of telepsychology and temporary in-person services by licensed psychologists in states where they are not currently licensed.

Key Provisions

HF 255 outlines several important objectives and provisions:

  1. Increased Access to Services:

    • The bill allows licensed psychologists to provide telepsychological services across state lines, thereby improving public access to mental health care.

  2. Public Health and Safety:

    • It aims to enhance the ability of states to protect public health and safety, particularly focusing on client-patient safety.

  3. State Cooperation:

    • The bill encourages cooperation among compact states regarding the licensure and regulation of psychologists.

  4. Information Exchange:

    • It facilitates the sharing of information between compact states about psychologist licensure, adverse actions, and disciplinary histories.

  5. Compliance Promotion:

    • The compact promotes adherence to the laws governing psychological practice in each participating state.

  6. Accountability:

    • It grants compact states the authority to hold licensed psychologists accountable through mutual recognition of licenses.

Definitions

The bill includes specific definitions critical to its implementation, such as:
- Adverse Action: Any disciplinary action taken by a state psychology regulatory authority for violations of statutes or regulations.
- Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology: The permission granted to licensed psychologists to practice telepsychology in another compact state under the compact's terms.

Impact

The enactment of HF 255 is expected to:
- Broaden Access: Increase the availability of psychological services, particularly in underserved areas.
- Streamline Licensure: Simplify the process for psychologists to practice in multiple states, thereby reducing barriers to care.
- Enhance Public Safety: Improve oversight and accountability for psychologists practicing across state lines.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 06, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the Health and Human Services committee for further consideration.

This summary provides an overview of HF 255, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on the practice of psychology across state lines. The bill represents a significant step towards modernizing the regulation of psychological services in the context of increasing demand for telehealth solutions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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