WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1712

TO ESTABLISH THE SOCIAL WORK LICENSURE COMPACT IN THIS STATE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joey Carr and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 1712 allows social workers to practice across state lines, improving access to services and reducing licensing barriers while ensuring public safety.

Notification that HB1712 is now Act 639
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1712

Summary of House Bill 1712: Social Work Licensure Compact

Bill Number: HB 1712
Status: Now Act 639
Introduced: March 10, 2025
Authors: Representative Joey Carr, Senator J. Scott

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1712 aims to establish the Social Work Licensure Compact in Arkansas. The primary goal of this legislation is to facilitate the interstate practice of regulated social workers, thereby improving public access to competent social work services. The bill seeks to enhance the efficiency of licensure processes while maintaining state regulatory authority to ensure public health and safety.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new subchapter to the Arkansas Code, specifically Title 17, Chapter 103, which outlines the following objectives of the Social Work Licensure Compact:

  1. Increased Access: Enhance public access to social work services across state lines.
  2. Reduced Licensing Burdens: Minimize duplicative licensing requirements for social workers practicing in multiple states.
  3. Public Safety: Strengthen the ability of member states to protect public health and safety.
  4. Workforce Mobility: Promote workforce mobility by allowing mutual recognition of licenses among member states.
  5. Support for Military Families: Provide support for military families by easing licensure requirements for social workers.
  6. Telehealth Services: Facilitate the use of telehealth to expand access to social work services.
  7. Information Sharing: Improve the exchange of licensure and disciplinary information among member states.

Definitions

The bill includes several key definitions relevant to the compact, such as:

  • Regulated Social Worker: A social worker licensed by a member state.
  • Member State: Any state that has enacted the compact.
  • Multistate License: A license allowing practice in multiple member states.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1712 will primarily affect:

  • Social Workers: Licensed social workers in Arkansas will benefit from reduced barriers to practice in other states, enhancing their professional mobility.
  • Clients: Individuals seeking social work services will have greater access to qualified professionals, particularly in underserved areas.
  • State Regulatory Authorities: State boards will retain their regulatory authority while participating in a collaborative framework with other states.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 10, 2025: Bill filed and introduced.
  • March 17, 2025: Passed in the House and sent to the Senate.
  • April 10, 2025: Passed in the Senate and returned to the House.
  • April 16, 2025: Notification that HB 1712 is now Act 639.

Conclusion

House Bill 1712 represents a significant step towards modernizing the practice of social work in Arkansas by joining the Social Work Licensure Compact. This legislation aims to enhance service delivery, improve access to care, and support social workers in their professional endeavors across state lines.

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

Sign in to ask a question.