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Bill

HB 2313

behavioral health examiners board; continuation

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by Selina Bliss

Arizona extends the Behavioral Health Examiners Board's authority to regulate and license mental health professionals, preventing regulatory agency expiration.

Signed by Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 2313

Legislative bill overview

HB 2313 continues the existence of Arizona's Behavioral Health Examiners Board, which was set to sunset (automatically expire). This bill extends the board's authority to regulate and license behavioral health professionals in the state, preventing its elimination.

Why is this important

The Behavioral Health Examiners Board oversees licensure and discipline of professionals like counselors, therapists, and other mental health providers. Without continuation, Arizona would lose regulatory oversight of these professions, potentially affecting consumer protections and professional standards in a sector serving thousands of residents.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden vs. consumer protection: Critics may argue the board creates unnecessary licensing requirements that increase costs for providers, while supporters contend it protects vulnerable patients seeking mental health services
  • Scope of practice debates: Different professional groups (counselors, therapists, social workers) may dispute which behaviors and qualifications the board should regulate
  • Sunset review process: Questions about whether the board adequately demonstrated its necessity and effectiveness during the sunset review that prompted this continuation bill

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

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