Wyoming panel advances bill limiting use of 'music therapist' to board‑certified practitioners

The Senate Labor, Health & Social Services Committee on Jan. 20 voted 3–1 to advance Senate File 36, a bill that would reserve the title "music therapist" in Wyoming for practitioners who hold a national board certification. The committee adopted multiple amendments that narrow the bill to protect the board‑certified title (MT‑BC) and add a definition tying the state language to the national Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).

Supporters say the measure clarifies who may present themselves as a music therapist and is meant to improve consumer protections and access to clinically trained providers. "This bill ensures that the title of music therapist is reserved for qualified professionals, ultimately safeguarding the well‑being of our most vulnerable populations," said Hillary Camino, a music therapist who testified for the Wyoming Music Therapy Task Force.

The bill does not create a state licensure board or penalties in state statute. Testimony and committee discussion made clear the current draft relies on civil remedies and the national board's complaint processes rather than a state enforcement mechanism. "In its…