CA SB479

Establishes the Behavior Analyst Act requiring licensure by the Board of Psychology for persons practicing behavior analysis as either a licensed behavior analyst or licensed assistant behavior analyst, effective July 1, 2018.

Increases Board of Psychology membership from 9 to 11 members on July 1, 2017, with one new member being a licensed psychologist qualified to practice behavior analysis; increases quorum requirement from 5 to 6 members.

Creates the Behavior Analyst Committee until January 1, 2021, composed of 5 members to make regulatory recommendations regarding behavior analysis practice in the state.

Requires applicants to meet educational and training requirements, pass a California law and ethics examination, and submit to criminal background checks; licenses expire 2 years after issuance and require continuing education for renewal.

Makes violations of the chapter a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine not exceeding $2,500; establishes civil penalties up to $1,000 per day for failure to provide client medical records upon request.