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HB 1474

State Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists - Temporary Telehealth Licenses - Establishment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 26 co-sponsors

Maryland authorizes temporary telehealth licenses for out-of-state counselors and therapists, allowing remote mental health service provision to expand access while streamlining licensure processes.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 649
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Bill Summary · HB 1474

Legislative bill overview

HB 1474 establishes a temporary telehealth licensing pathway for professional counselors and therapists in Maryland, allowing out-of-state practitioners to provide remote mental health services to Maryland residents without obtaining full Maryland licensure. The bill creates an expedited approval process while maintaining professional standards and consumer protections during the temporary authorization period.

Why is this important

Mental health service shortages persist in many Maryland communities, and telehealth can expand access to care beyond geographic barriers. This temporary license bridges the gap between immediate mental health demand and the time-intensive traditional licensure process, potentially reducing wait times for therapy and counseling services while addressing workforce limitations.

Potential points of contention

  • Interstate reciprocity concerns: Critics may worry about varying licensure standards across states, questioning whether temporary licensees meet identical professional and ethical standards as fully-licensed Maryland providers
  • Consumer protection gaps: Temporary licenses could create ambiguity around liability, complaint processes, and disciplinary authority if out-of-state providers face minimal oversight or rapid authorization without rigorous vetting
  • Market competition effects: In-state licensed practitioners may view this as unfair competition that undercuts their market position or wages by allowing cheaper out-of-state alternatives

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

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