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Bill

SN 58

LaPatrick D. (Pat) Stephens, LCSW, Starkville, Mississippi, BD of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists as a Licensed Social Worker, four year term effective July 1, 2024 and ending June 30, 2028, vice Ms. Valerie Joiner.

2025 Regular Session

Mississippi appoints LCSW LaPatrick Stephens to the Social Workers and Marriage/Family Therapists Board for a four-year term beginning July 2024, replacing Valerie Joiner.

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Bill Summary · SN 58

Legislative bill overview

Bill SN 58 appoints LaPatrick D. (Pat) Stephens, LCSW, from Starkville, Mississippi to the Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists as a Licensed Social Worker for a four-year term from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2028, replacing outgoing member Valerie Joiner.

Why is this important

Board appointments determine who regulates professional licensing and standards for social workers and marriage/family therapists in Mississippi. These board members set examination requirements, ethical standards, and disciplinary practices that affect thousands of practitioners and the public they serve.

Potential points of contention

  • Qualifications and background: No public information provided about Stephens' specific experience, credentials beyond LCSW status, or why he was selected over other candidates
  • Transparency of appointment process: No details on whether this was a competitive selection or sole nomination; unclear if public input was sought
  • Board composition: No context on current board diversity, expertise gaps, or whether this appointment addresses identified needs in professional oversight

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

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