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HB 5298

AN ACT REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH TO LICENSE DRAMA THERAPISTS AND DANCE/MOVEMENT THERAPISTS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Amy Morrin Bello

Connecticut bill requires state licensing of drama therapists and dance/movement therapists to establish professional standards and consumer protections.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Health
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Bill Summary · HB 5298

Legislative bill overview

HB 5298 would require Connecticut's Department of Public Health to establish a licensing system for drama therapists and dance/movement therapists. The bill aims to regulate these mental health practitioners through state licensure, similar to how other therapeutic professions are credentialed in Connecticut.

Why is this important

Currently, drama therapists and dance/movement therapists operate without state licensure requirements in Connecticut, meaning anyone can claim these credentials without meeting standardized qualifications. Establishing licensure would protect consumers by ensuring practitioners meet education and competency standards, while also clarifying the professional status of these emerging therapeutic fields.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition disputes: The bill does not specify what educational requirements, training hours, or certification standards would be required, which could lead to significant debate during implementation about who qualifies to be licensed
  • Cost and burden concerns: New licensure requirements typically involve application fees, continuing education costs, and regulatory administration that could reduce practitioner accessibility or discourage new entrants to the field
  • Evidence base questions: Drama therapy and dance/movement therapy have less extensive clinical research backing compared to traditional psychotherapy, raising questions about whether state-level licensure is premature or appropriate

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

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