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Committee considers small change to advisory council membership for social work licenses
Summary
House Bill 1234 would let the Department of Health advisory council’s advanced social‑worker seat be held by either an advanced social worker or a second licensed independent clinical social worker, committee staff said.
House Bill 1234 would modify the membership rules for the advisory council that advises the Department of Health on licensing for mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists and social workers, the committee heard on Jan. 22, 2025.
Committee staff Chris Blake summarized the bill, saying the advisory council currently includes two mental health counselors, two marriage and family therapists, one independent clinical social worker and one advanced social worker, plus three public members. "House Bill 1234 specifies that the position on the advisory council that is reserved for an advanced social worker may be held by either an advanced social worker or a second independent clinical social worker," Blake said. The bill also clarifies that the prohibition on holding an office with a professional association applies only to governing offices or board positions.
Jeremy Arp, executive director of the National Association of Social Workers, Washington State chapter, testified in support and explained the practical reason for the change: the small pool of licensed advanced social workers (LASWs) makes it difficult to fill that seat. "Allowing an LASW or LACSW to serve in that spot allows for fuller participation, especially in light of some changes where the Department of Health secretary will consult that committee regarding continuing education requirements," Arp said.
No members of the public testified in opposition. Committee members asked no substantive follow‑up questions at the hearing. The bill sponsor described the change as noncontroversial and said it was brought forward by social workers.
There was no formal vote during the hearing; committee staff indicated the bill will be included in the committee’s upcoming executive session for consideration.
