FINAL BILL REPORT

HB 1939

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

C 86 L 11

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Defining federally recognized tribes as agencies for purposes of agency-affiliated counselors.

Sponsors: Representative Appleton.

House Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs

Senate Committee on Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections

Background:

Legislation enacted in 2008 abolished the registered counselor credential and created eight new counseling credentials. One of those credentials is an agency-affiliated counselor. An agency-affiliated counselor is a person engaged in counseling who is employed by an agency. Agency-affiliated counselors must register with the Department of Health and may not engage in the practice of counseling unless they are affiliated with an agency.

An agency is an agency or facility operated, licensed, or certified by the State of Washington or a county.

Summary:

For purposes of agency-affiliated counselors, federally recognized tribes located within the state are included in the definition of agency.

Votes on Final Passage:

House

80

17

Senate

41

6

Effective:

July 22, 2011