SB1089 Summary

• Elevates unauthorized practice of behavioral health from a class 2 misdemeanor to a class 6 felony, with civil penalties up to $500 per offense.

• Adds new provisions making it illegal to conspire with or aid and abets another person to commit unauthorized practice of behavioral health, also punishable as a class 6 felony with up to $500 civil penalty.

• Requires the behavioral health board to notify the Arizona Department of Health Services when a licensed health care institution employs or contracts with a person under investigation for unauthorized practice.

• Reduces required post-degree work experience hours from 3,200 to 1,600 hours of direct client contact for licensure of clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, and substance abuse counselors.

• Adds new supervisor attestation requirements on board-approved forms confirming applicants demonstrated satisfactory competency in clinical documentation, consultation, collaboration, and care coordination, with an overall satisfactory performance rating.