FINAL BILL REPORT

                            SB 6135

                           C 35 L 94

                      SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

Brief Description:  Modifying provisions regarding licensure of psychologists.

SPONSORS: Senators Talmadge, McDonald and Prentice

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH CARE

BACKGROUND:

The definition of a psychologist has not been substantively changed since it was first described in 1965.  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.  

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

Senate    48   0

House     96   0

EFFECTIVE:June 9, 1994