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Bill

Bill

HB 261

AN ACT relating to the School Psychologist Interstate Licensure Compact.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Daniel Grossberg and 3 co-sponsors

Kentucky joins interstate compact allowing licensed school psychologists from member states to practice in Kentucky without separate state licensure.

to Licensing, Occupations, & Administrative Regulations (H)
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Bill Summary · HB 261

Legislative bill overview

HB 261 establishes Kentucky's participation in the School Psychologist Interstate Licensure Compact, an interstate agreement that allows school psychologists licensed in one member state to practice in other member states under streamlined reciprocal recognition. The bill creates a framework for accepting school psychologist credentials across state lines while maintaining professional standards through compact member state regulations.

Why is this important

School psychologist shortages are critical in many states, and interstate licensing compacts help address workforce gaps by reducing barriers to relocation and multi-state practice. This legislation could expand access to school mental health services in Kentucky schools while making the profession more flexible for licensed practitioners seeking to work across state borders.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer protection standards: Questions about whether streamlined reciprocal licensing adequately protects students when accepting credentials from states with potentially different licensure requirements or disciplinary standards
  • Kentucky licensing board jurisdiction: Concerns about reduced state oversight and regulatory authority if school psychologists can practice under compact rules rather than state-specific licensure
  • Economic impact on existing licensees: Potential competition and wage pressure on Kentucky-licensed school psychologists from out-of-state practitioners entering the market more easily

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

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