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Bill

SN 107

LaPatrick D. (Pat) Stephens, LCSW, Starkville, Mississippi, Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists as a Licensed Certified Social Worker, four year term effective July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2030.

2026 Regular Session

Senate confirms LaPatrick D. Stephens as Licensed Certified Social Worker on Mississippi's Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists, July 2026-June 2030.

Notified of Approval
#publichealthandwelfare
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Bill Summary · SN 107

Legislative bill overview

This bill confirms the appointment of LaPatrick D. (Pat) Stephens, a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) from Starkville, Mississippi, to the Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists for a four-year term beginning July 1, 2026. The appointment has already been confirmed by the relevant committee and approved.

Why is this important

Board appointments directly influence regulatory standards, licensing decisions, and professional oversight in social work and marriage/family therapy fields. These positions shape who can practice, what qualifications are required, and how complaints against practitioners are handled—affecting access to mental health services across Mississippi.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of public detail: The bill provides no information about Stephens' qualifications, experience, or why he was selected over other candidates
  • Limited transparency: No discussion of potential conflicts of interest, previous board service, or his professional background beyond credentials
  • Narrow legislative window: As a personnel appointment, this receives minimal legislative scrutiny compared to policy bills that affect broader populations

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

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