AL SB338

Requires criminal history background checks for all initial applicants seeking licensure as licensed professional counselors or associate licensed counselors in Alabama

Mandates submission of fingerprints or other biometric data to obtain criminal records from both the FBI and Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency

Places all costs for background checks on the applicant, either as part of licensing fees or as a separate charge

Designates background check results as confidential and not public record, except when used as basis for license denial

Authorizes the board to adopt additional rules for background checks on current licensees and license renewals; effective October 1, 2026