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Bill Summary · HB 117

Summary of House Bill 117

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 117
  • Title: Sunset Law; Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy continued with modification until October 1, 2027
  • Status: Enacted
  • Introduced: February 03, 2025
  • Sponsor: Representative Matt Simpson
  • Effective Date: June 1, 2025

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 117 aims to continue the existence and operations of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy until October 1, 2027. This continuation is in accordance with the Alabama Sunset Law, which mandates periodic reviews of state agencies to determine their necessity and effectiveness.

Key Provisions

  1. Continuation of the Board:

    • The Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy will remain active until October 1, 2027.
    • This extension ensures that the board can continue to regulate the practice of marriage and family therapy in Alabama.

  2. Modification of Membership Requirements:

    • The bill introduces a significant amendment to Section 34-17A-6 of the Code of Alabama 1975, stipulating that no two board members may reside in the same congressional district. This change is intended to enhance geographic diversity within the board's membership.

  3. Diversity in Appointments:

    • The Governor is required to ensure that the board reflects the geographic, gender, and racial diversity of the state when making appointments.

  4. Board Composition:

    • The board will consist of five members, including:
      • One public member
      • One marriage and family therapy educator
      • Three practicing marriage and family therapists

  5. Appointment Process:

    • The Alabama Association for Marriage and Family Therapy will submit two candidates for each board vacancy to the Governor, who will then appoint one member for a five-year term.

  6. Removal of Board Members:

    • Board members can only be removed for neglect of duty, malfeasance, or felony conviction, following a public hearing and prior notice.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The bill primarily impacts the members of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy, marriage and family therapists practicing in Alabama, and the clients they serve.

  • Funding:

    • The enactment of this bill will not affect state or local funding.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 3, 2025: Bill filed.
  • February 4, 2025: First reading and referral to the House Committee on Boards, Agencies and Commissions.
  • March 5, 2025: Reported out of committee and placed on the calendar.
  • April 8, 2025: Passed by the House and sent to the Senate.
  • April 17, 2025: Enacted into law.

Conclusion

House Bill 117 serves to ensure the ongoing regulation of marriage and family therapy in Alabama while promoting diversity within the board's membership. The modifications to the board's structure are designed to enhance its effectiveness and representation, ultimately benefiting the profession and the public it serves.

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

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