SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 6135

              AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 10, 1994

Brief Description:  Modifying provisions regarding licensure of psychologists.

SPONSORS: Senators Talmadge, McDonald and Prentice

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

     Signed by Senators Talmadge, Chairman; Wojahn, Vice Chairman; Deccio, Franklin, Fraser, McAuliffe, McDonald, Moyer, Prentice, Quigley, L. Smith and Winsley.

Staff:  Rhoda Jones (786‑7198)

Hearing Dates: January 25, 1994; January 26, 1994

BACKGROUND:

The definition of a psychologist has not been substantively changed since it was first described in 1955.  Those within the profession are concerned the present definition does not adequately reflect the practice of psychology today.

SUMMARY:

The definition of the "practice of psychology" is updated to reflect current practice.  Reference to the disciplinary committee is removed because it is no longer used.  The Psychology Board or a panel of the board acts as   disciplinary authority.

Failure to renew a license is changed from a "suspension" to an "expiration" to distinguish this change of license status from one taken for disciplinary purposes. 

The life of the Psychology Board is extended beyond its current expiration date of June 30, 1995 to June 30, 2004.  The sunset date for the statutes governing the board is extended from June 30, 1996 to June 30, 2005.  

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:

This bill updates the definition of psychologist to reflect current practice and it extends the life of the Psychology Board and its governing statutes.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  PRO:  Margaret Heldring, Gail McGaffick, Washington State Psychological Association; Dee Spice, Department of Health; Dolph Printz, Examining Board of Psychology