CA SB401

Amends the Psychology Licensing Law to redefine unprofessional conduct regarding sexual acts, expanding from prior language that referenced "sexual relations" to now include "sexual behavior" and "sexual contact" with clients or former clients within 2 years of therapy termination.

Defines four specific terms: "sexual abuse" (touching intimate parts by force or coercion), "sexual behavior" (inappropriate physical contact or sexual communication for arousal/gratification/exploitation), "sexual contact" (touching intimate parts), and "sexual misconduct" (inappropriate sexual conduct substantially related to professional duties).

Requires mandatory revocation orders in any administrative decision finding that a licensee engaged in sexual contact with a client or former client within 2 years of therapy termination, with no stay of revocation permitted by administrative law judges.

Permits (but does not mandate) revocation orders in decisions containing findings of sexual abuse, sexual behavior, or sexual misconduct, providing Board of Psychology discretion in these cases.

Approved by Governor September 13, 2022.