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Committee advances bill clarifying fingerprinting is discretionary for counselors and therapists
Summary
Senate Bill 1018 would make fingerprinting for certain counseling and therapy licenses discretionary rather than mandatory; the Senate Commerce Committee gave it a due-pass recommendation.
Senate Bill 10 18, which amends licensure statutes for counselors and therapists to clarify that fingerprinting for criminal background checks may be required at the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses’ discretion, was sent to the Senate floor with a "do pass" recommendation by the Senate Commerce and Human Resources Committee.
Senator Mark Harris (District 35), who sponsored the bill, said language added during the 2024 session had been interpreted to make fingerprinting mandatory in all cases in anticipation of an interstate counselors compact that did not pass. "This change clarifies that fingerprinting is not required in every instance, but can be [required] if the division later determines that it is necessary," Harris told the committee.
Harris said the bill does not alter rulemaking authority, licensing scope, disciplinary authority or supervision; the sponsor also stated there is no fiscal impact to the general fund.
Senator Guthrie moved to send SB 10 18 to the floor with a do-pass recommendation; Senator Ward Engle King seconded. The motion carried on a voice vote.
No members of the public testified on the bill during the committee hearing.
