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HB 1537

Relating to the Licensed Professional Counselors Compact; authorizing fees.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Vikki Goodwin and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1537 enables Texas to join the Licensed Professional Counselors Compact, allowing counselors to practice across state lines and authorizing administrative fees.

Referred to Human Services
#counselingcompactcommission(v60ef) #civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #courts--general(i0160) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #intergovernmentalrelations(i0447) #legislature(i0520) #mentalhealth&substanceabuse(i0019) #military&veterans(i0535) #occupationalregulation--healthoccupations(i0540) #professionalcounselors(s0714) #stateagencies #boards&commissions--newlyproposed(i0773)
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Bill Summary · HB 1537

Legislative bill overview

HB 1537 authorizes Texas to participate in the Licensed Professional Counselors Compact, a multi-state agreement that allows licensed counselors to practice across state lines without obtaining separate licenses in each state. The bill also permits the state to collect fees necessary to administer the compact framework.

Why is this important

This compact increases counselor mobility and access to mental health services across state borders, particularly benefiting telehealth practices and clients in underserved areas. It reduces licensing barriers that can delay patient care and counselor employment, while generating revenue through administrative fees to support the compact's operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Professional standards variation: Critics may worry that reciprocal recognition across states could allow counselors licensed under less stringent standards in one state to practice in Texas
  • Fee structure transparency: Questions about how much fees will cost, who bears them, and whether costs will be passed to consumers or employers
  • State autonomy concerns: Some may argue the compact limits Texas's independent ability to regulate its mental health professions and set local licensing standards

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

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