Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council votes to clear language on CE requirements after hours of public comment

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) voted on Feb. 18 to move forward with proposed revisions to continuing-education rules that remove the explicit wording “cultural diversity or competency” and replace it with broader language allowing licensees to receive required hours tied to specific populations they serve.

The decision came after more than two hours of public comment from clinicians, students and professional associations who urged the council to retain explicit cultural-competency language. Dozens of speakers — including licensed clinicians and representatives of professional groups — told the council the change would weaken protections for clients from historically marginalized communities and reduce requirements that push clinicians to seek ongoing training.

Supporters of keeping the current wording argued the existing rule required just three hours out of 30 over two years for cultural-diversity-focused continuing education, a floor many said was already minimal. “The proposed changes compromise the efficacy and integrity of mental health care in Texas,” said Dr. Britney Hudson, a licensed professional counselor, who told the council a petition opposing the change had gathered more than 1,400 signatures. Melody Marin, a licensed clinical psychologist, said: “All Texans are entitled to effective health care,” and urged the council not…