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HB 7064

AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS -- MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELORS AND MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Azzinaro and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill modifying licensing requirements and regulatory standards for mental health counselors and marriage/family therapists to affect professional practice and service delivery.

06/22/2026 Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 7064

Legislative bill overview

HB 7064 modifies Rhode Island's licensing and regulatory framework for mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists. The bill adjusts professional requirements, credentials, or scope of practice for these mental health professions, though the specific regulatory changes are not detailed in the available legislative history.

Why is this important

Mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists are frontline providers in Rhode Island's behavioral health system. Changes to their licensing or practice scope directly affect service availability, consumer access to affordable mental health care, and professional workforce capacity during a period of significant mental health demand.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice expansion vs. physician oversight: If the bill expands counselor/therapist authority (e.g., prescribing privileges or independent practice), physicians and psychiatrists may oppose reduced gatekeeping roles
  • Licensing standard adjustments: Any reduction in education or certification requirements could face pushback from professional associations concerned about quality assurance, while consumer advocates might support lowering barriers to entry
  • Insurance reimbursement implications: Changes to professional credentials may affect insurance billing codes and reimbursement rates, creating financial concerns for both providers and insurers

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

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