Health occupations: counselors; professional disclosure statement requirements; eliminate. Amends sec. 18114 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18114) & repeals sec. 18113 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18113).
Impact
The legislative intent behind HB 4904 is to make the process of retaining professional credentials less burdensome for counselors, aiming to alleviate barriers that may arise from gaps in licensure. By modifying sections of the existing public health code, the bill reflects an understanding of the dynamics in mental health professions, encouraging continuous practice and community engagement of licensed counselors. Additionally, it reinforces the standards for professional scrutiny by requiring disclosure statements and out-of-state verifications, ensuring that the counselors meet acceptable standards even after a break in practice.
Summary
House Bill 4904 proposes amendments to the Public Health Code of Michigan, specifically updating the requirements for the relicensure of licensed professional counselors and limited licensed counselors. The bill aims to streamline the relicensing process by allowing counselors to apply for relicensure within three years of their license expiration without the need to retake certification examinations. Instead, they must submit a completed application, pay relevant fees, and, if previously licensed out of state, verify their status with the respective licensing agency. This adjustment is viewed as a potential ease for professionals wishing to continue their practice after license lapses.
Sentiment
Discussion surrounding HB 4904 has been comparatively positive, particularly among mental health professionals and organizations advocating for reduced bureaucratic barriers in the healthcare sector. Supporters argue that it promotes workforce stability in this vital area, especially amid increasing demands for mental health services. Critics, however, express concerns regarding the potential dilution of professional standards and the implications for client safety, stressing the importance of maintaining rigorous oversight over counseling practices.
Contention
Notable contention includes the breadth of the changes proposed, particularly concerning the grace period for relicensure and how these alterations align with national standards for counseling licensure. Some fear that while the bill is designed to support counselors returning to practice, it may reduce accountability, particularly for those with a history of disciplinary actions. This debate underscores a balancing act between supporting professionals and protecting public safety and standards in mental health care.
Health occupations: counselors; reference to limited licensed counselor; modify to limited licensed professional counselor. Amends secs. 16281, 16905, 18101, 18105, 18106, 18111, 18114 & 18117 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16281 et seq.).
Health occupations: mental health care professionals; number of renewals of temporary or limited licenses; modify. Amends secs. 16903, 18111, 18223, 18233 & 18509 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16903 et seq.) & adds secs. 18111a & 18227.
Health occupations: counselors; professional counselors licensure compact; provide for. Amends sec. 18101 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18101) & adds secs. 16190a & 18105a.
Health occupations: dentists; dentistry task force; eliminate. Amends sec. 16620 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16620) & repeals sec. 16624 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16624).
Health occupations: psychologists; requirements for practice by limited licensed psychologist; modify. Amends secs. 18221, 18223, 18233 & 18237 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18221 et seq.).
Health occupations: counselors; reference to limited licensed counselor; modify to limited licensed professional counselor. Amends secs. 16281, 16905, 18101, 18105, 18106, 18111, 18114 & 18117 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16281 et seq.).
Health occupations: psychologists; requirements for practice by limited licensed psychologist; modify. Amends secs. 18221, 18223, 18233 & 18237 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18221 et seq.).