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HB 3503

Relating to the Social Work Licensure Compact; authorizing fees.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Drew Darby and 2 co-sponsors

HB 3503 joins Texas to a multi-state social work licensing compact, allowing interstate practice for licensed social workers and authorizing associated administrative fees.

Referred to Human Services
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Bill Summary · HB 3503

Legislative bill overview

HB 3503 establishes Texas's participation in the Social Work Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement that allows licensed social workers to practice across participating states without obtaining separate licenses in each jurisdiction. The bill authorizes the collection of fees necessary to administer and maintain this compact arrangement.

Why is this important

This compact addresses workforce mobility and consumer access to mental health services by reducing licensing barriers for social workers. It simplifies interstate practice for professionals while maintaining regulatory oversight through each state's individual licensing board, potentially increasing availability of social work services in underserved areas that can access out-of-state practitioners.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory standardization concerns: Compacts require some alignment of licensing standards across states, which may conflict with Texas's specific professional requirements or consumer protection measures
  • Fee structure and costs: The authorization for fees raises questions about what costs are included, how fees are determined, and whether they create financial barriers for social workers or are passed to consumers
  • Interstate reciprocity risks: Allowing practitioners licensed in other states to work in Texas could theoretically permit individuals licensed under less stringent standards to serve Texas residents, depending on compact minimum standards

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

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