Bill
LD 1298
Overview: Bill Number: LD 1298, Title: An Act Establishing Alternative Pathways To Social Worker Licensing, Status: ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH, Introduced: March 25, 2025, Classificati
Overview: Bill Number: LD 1298, Title: An Act Establishing Alternative Pathways To Social Worker Licensing, Status: ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH, Introduced: March 25, 2025, Classification: bill, Subject: ALTERNATE PATHWAYS, HEALTH CARE PERSONNEL, Social Workers
Purpose and Intent: The goal of this legislation is to create new alternative pathways for individuals to become licensed social workers in the state. The bill aims to expand the pool of qualified social work professionals and address workforce shortages.
Key Provisions:
- Establishes a "Registered Social Worker" classification for individuals with a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field
- Allows Registered Social Workers to practice under the supervision of a licensed clinical social worker
- Creates an accelerated licensing process for Registered Social Workers to obtain full clinical social work licensure
- Directs the state social work licensing board to develop competency-based assessment exams as an alternative to degree requirements
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Individuals with relevant bachelor's degrees would gain a new pathway to social work practice and licensure
- Registered Social Workers would be able to provide services under supervision, expanding the social work workforce
- The state's social work licensing board would need to implement the new alternative licensing processes
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
- The bill has been ordered sent forthwith, indicating rapid legislative action
- If passed, the new alternative social worker licensing pathways would likely take effect within 6-12 months
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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