Senate passes bill clarifying fingerprint background-check rules for counselors and therapists

The Idaho Senate on Jan. 31, 2025 passed Senate Bill 1018, which clarifies when fingerprint‑based criminal history background checks are required for counselors and therapists licensed in Idaho.

Senator Harris, who opened debate, said the bill updates language in Idaho Code related to licensure qualifications (citing Idaho Code section 54‑305) to make clear that fingerprinting is not mandatory in every instance. Instead, the bill specifies that a fingerprint‑based check will be submitted only if required by the professional licensing division under existing criminal background check authority (Idaho Code section 67‑2941 or similar administrative authority cited in debate).

Harris told the Senate the bill responds to administrative questions from licensees after the 2024 legislative session and is meant to clarify whether fingerprinting is mandatory when statutes or rules might otherwise allow discretion. He said the measure does not change rulemaking authority, licensing scope, discipline, supervision, or have an impact on the state general fund or federal funds. He also said the bill aligns with the intent of prior legislation referenced during debate.

No floor amendments were recorded during the Senate debate. After the sponsor’s closing remarks, the secretary called the roll; the presiding officers announced the bill had passed the Senate. The Senate approved the title without correction, and the bill will be transmitted to the House for consideration.

Votes at a glance: Senate Bill 1018 — Passed by the Senate (roll call announced as passed; detailed roll call text in the journal).