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SB 845

Health occupations: social workers; social work licensure; modify. Amends secs. 18506 & 18509 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18506 & 333.18509) & adds sec. 18509a.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rosemary Bayer and 6 co-sponsors

SB 845 modifies Michigan social worker licensure rules to adjust professional requirements and regulatory standards for clinical social work practice.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES
#healthoccupations:socialworkers #stateagencies(existing):licensingandregulatoryaffairs
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Bill Summary · SB 845

Legislative bill overview

SB 845 modifies Michigan's social worker licensure requirements by amending existing regulations under the Public Health Code and adding new provisions. The bill specifically targets sections 18506 and 18509 while introducing a new section 18509a, though the exact modifications are not detailed in the available information provided.

Why is this important

Social worker licensure directly affects who can practice clinical social work in Michigan and under what conditions, impacting both the supply of mental health professionals and consumer protection. Changes to licensure requirements can influence workforce accessibility, professional standards, and the ability of social workers to practice across different settings and serve vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice changes: Modifications may expand or restrict what licensed social workers can do, affecting collaboration with other healthcare providers and treatment accessibility
  • Educational/experience requirements: Altering licensure standards could make it easier or harder to become licensed, creating tension between workforce expansion and credential maintenance
  • Regulatory burden: New requirements in section 18509a might impose additional compliance costs on practitioners or regulatory agencies, or conversely, might reduce barriers some view as necessary safeguards

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

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