SB63 Summary

• Establishes the Alabama Psychology Professionals Wellness Committee administered by the Board of Examiners in Psychology to identify and intervene with impaired licensed psychologists and psychological technicians.

• Defines "impaired" as inability to practice with reasonable skill and safety due to illness, substance dependence, excessive drug or alcohol use, or physical/mental conditions.

• Committee consists of 3-11 members (licensed psychologists or technicians plus one contractor representative) appointed by the board, with membership reflecting the state's racial, gender, geographic, and economic diversity.

• Board shall contract with nonprofit organizations, health professionals, or associations to receive impairment reports, intervene in cases, refer licensees to treatment programs, and monitor rehabilitation.

• Committee records are confidential and not subject to court subpoena, except records related to contract breaches may be disclosed to the board for disciplinary purposes; board may refrain from discipline if licensee is actively participating in committee-recommended treatment.

• Act becomes effective January 1, 2022.