Maryland Senate Bill SB522

Maryland 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/26
• Refer: 2/4/26

Caption

Workers' Compensation - Evaluation of Permanent Impairments - Licensed Social Worker-Clinical

Impact

The implementation of SB522 is expected to streamline the evaluation process for individuals seeking compensation for mental health-related impairments. By allowing licensed social workers to perform these evaluations, the bill not only widens the pool of qualified evaluators but also potentially expedites the claims process. This could lead to a more efficient use of resources and better access for individuals dealing with mental and emotional conditions resulting from work-related incidents.

Summary

Senate Bill 522 aims to expand the scope of services that licensed certified social workers–clinical can provide in the context of workers' compensation claims. Specifically, the bill authorizes these professionals to conduct evaluations for permanent impairments associated with behavioral or mental disorders. This change is particularly significant as it acknowledges the role of social workers in addressing mental health issues within the workers' compensation framework, which historically has been dominated by medical doctors and psychologists.

Contention

Despite its beneficial intent, the bill might face scrutiny regarding the qualifications and standards set for social workers performing these evaluations. Some stakeholders may express concerns about ensuring that licensed certified social workers possess the necessary training and experience to accurately assess complex mental health issues. Furthermore, there may be discussions around the adequacy of oversight and regulation to ensure that these evaluations are performed consistently and reliably, as they can have significant implications for claim approvals and benefits.