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SCS/SB 70 - This act modifies provisions relating to license reciprocity for professional counselors. Currently, those applicants who are licensed in another state or territory may receive a license in this state if they are approved or in good standing with certain professional organizations. This act repeals this provision and implements a provision permitting any person who, for at least one year, has held a valid, current license issued by another state, a branch or unit of the military, a U.S. territory, or the District of Columbia, to apply for an equivalent Missouri license through the Board, subject to procedures and limitations as provided in the act. This act adopts the "Counseling Interstate Compact". The purpose of the compact is to facilitate the interstate practice of licensed professional counselors with the goal of improving public access to professional counseling services. The compact sets forth the requirements to be met in order for a state to join the compact. Each member state shall require an applicant for a professional counselor license to obtain or retain a license in the home state and meet the home state's qualifications for licensure or renewal of licensure as well as all other applicable state laws. The compact creates a joint public agency known as the Counseling Compact Commission. The Commission has powers and duties as listed in the compact and shall enforce the provisions and rules of the compact. The Commission shall provide for the development, maintenance, and utilization of a coordinated database and reporting system containing licenses, adverse actions, and investigative information on all licensed individuals in member states. The compact shall come into effect on the date on which the compact is enacted into law in the tenth member state. Any member state may withdraw from the compact by enacting a statute repealing the same. The compact shall be binding upon member states and shall supersede any conflict with state law. Provisions of this act are substantially similar to HB 2749 (2022). SARAH HASKINS
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