Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee |
HB 1255
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. |
Brief Description: Permitting federally recognized Indian tribes to certify counselors as agency affiliated counselors.
Sponsors: Representatives Appleton and Jinkins.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/10/11
Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106).
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 of Bill:
For purposes of agency-affiliated counselors, federally recognized tribes located within the state are included in the definition of agency.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.