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Bill

Bill

36-0050

An Act repealing and reenacting with amendments title 27 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 20, relating to the regulation of the profession of social work and social workers

2025-2026 Regular Session

Virgin Islands updates social work licensing regulations to modernize professional standards, educational requirements, and regulatory oversight of practicing social workers.

Sent to Lt. Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · 36-0050

Legislative bill overview

Bill 36-0050 comprehensively revises Virgin Islands Code Title 27, Chapter 20, which governs the licensing, practice standards, and professional regulation of social workers in the territory. The bill repeals the existing regulatory framework and replaces it with amended provisions to modernize social work professional requirements and oversight.

Why is this important

Social worker licensing regulations directly affect who can legally practice clinical social work, what qualifications they must hold, and what ethical standards apply to their practice with vulnerable populations including children, elderly individuals, and people with mental health conditions. Updating these regulations can improve consumer protection, workforce standards, and the quality of social services delivered across the Virgin Islands.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice changes – Amendments may expand or restrict what licensed social workers can do (e.g., prescribing authority, therapy scope), affecting both practitioners and clients seeking services
  • Licensure requirements – New educational, experience, or examination standards could create barriers for existing practitioners or make entry harder for new professionals
  • Enforcement and discipline – Changes to complaint procedures, licensing board composition, or disciplinary actions may shift power between regulators, practitioners, and the public

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

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