AR HB1181

Establishes the Counseling Compact in Arkansas Code Title 17, Chapter 27, Subchapter 5, allowing licensed professional counselors from member states to practice across state lines under a "Privilege to Practice."

Creates the Counseling Compact Commission as a joint public agency with representatives from member states to oversee administration, promulgate rules, maintain a data system tracking licensee information, and manage interstate licensing and disciplinary matters.

Requires participating states to license and regulate professional counselors, mandate passage of nationally recognized exams, require 60 semester-hours (or 90 quarter-hours) of graduate-level education, and establish mechanisms for receiving and investigating complaints.

Allows licensed counselors to practice via telehealth in remote states and provides special protections for active duty military personnel and their spouses to maintain their home state license designation while on active duty.

Designates the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling as the compact administrator and grants the General Assembly authority to reject rules adopted by the Counseling Compact Commission.