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Bill

HB 1247

Licensing music therapists.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 13 co-sponsors

Washington establishes state licensing requirements for music therapists, setting educational and professional standards while creating Department of Health oversight and enforcement mechanisms.

Effective date 7/23/2023*.
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Bill Summary · HB 1247

Legislative bill overview

HB 1247 establishes a state licensing system for music therapists in Washington, creating regulated standards for practitioners who use music as a therapeutic intervention. The bill defines qualifications, sets educational and certification requirements, and creates enforcement mechanisms through the Department of Health to protect consumers and ensure professional standards.

Why is this important

Music therapy has grown as a healthcare practice, but practitioners previously operated without state oversight, creating potential risks for patients regarding practitioner qualifications and accountability. Licensing provides legal clarity for insurers, healthcare providers, and patients about who can legitimately practice music therapy and under what credentials, while allowing qualified practitioners to operate within a recognized professional framework.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definition: Disputes may arise over what constitutes music therapy versus what falls under music instruction or entertainment, potentially affecting boundaries with music educators and entertainers
  • Regulatory burden on practitioners: New licensing requirements create administrative costs and compliance obligations that may limit access to music therapy services, particularly in rural areas or lower-income communities
  • Insurance and healthcare integration: Questions about whether insurance will cover licensed music therapy services, how it integrates into medical settings, and whether licensing creates expectations that insurance must cover it

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

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