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Bill

HB 2506

Establishing the addiction counselor apprentice license and setting fees for such license.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas bill creates an addiction counselor apprentice license with associated fees to expand the addiction treatment workforce through supervised apprenticeship training.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2506

Legislative bill overview

HB 2506 creates a new "addiction counselor apprentice" license in Kansas and establishes associated licensing fees. The bill provides a structured pathway for individuals to gain credentials in addiction counseling through an apprenticeship model rather than traditional educational routes alone.

Why is this important

Kansas faces documented shortages in addiction treatment providers and mental health professionals. Creating an apprentice license could expand the addiction counseling workforce by allowing trained individuals without full professional credentials to work under supervision, potentially increasing access to treatment services in underserved areas and reducing wait times for care.

Potential points of contention

  • Supervision and accountability standards – The bill's effectiveness depends on clear definitions of apprentice responsibilities and supervisor oversight requirements, which aren't detailed in available information
  • Scope of practice limitations – Defining what services apprentices can/cannot provide independently versus under supervision will be crucial to consumer protection and professional licensing standards
  • Fee structure and affordability – Licensing fees could create barriers for lower-income individuals seeking apprenticeships, potentially limiting workforce diversity in addiction treatment fields

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

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