Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

SSB 6328

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 Summary of Substitute Bill

Directs the Secretary of Health to adopt rules to issue retired active licenses to mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, advanced social workers, and independent clinical social workers.

Background:

The Secretary of Health (Secretary) has regulatory authority for mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers. The Secretary establishes licensing, education, and examination standards, issues licenses, and serves as the disciplining authority in cases regarding unprofessional conduct for these professions.

The Secretary and the 15 health professions boards and commissions may adopt rules to authorize the issuance of retired active credentials to health care providers who only practice in emergent or intermittent circumstances. The Secretary's rules for retired active credentials require that the applicant hold an active credential in good standing and either not practice for more than 90 days per year or only practice in emergency situations. An applicant for a retired active license must meet any continuing education or continuing competency requirements associated with the profession. Retired active license holders are charged a reduced renewal fee.

Summary of Bill:

The Secretary of Health is directed to adopt rules to issue retired active licenses to mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, advanced social workers, and independent clinical social workers. Applicants for the retired active license must hold an active license in good standing or have held an active license in good standing within the five years prior to application.