DE HB347

Reduces the Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals from 13 members to 9 members appointed by the Governor.

Changes professional membership composition to require at least 2 professional counselors of mental health, at least 2 licensed chemical dependency professionals, and when possible at least 1 licensed marriage and family therapist (rather than fixed 3-3-3 split).

Maintains 3 public members who cannot be mental health or chemical dependency professionals or employed in those fields.

Modifies board member compensation from a per-meeting basis (maximum $50 per meeting, capped at $500 annually) to a level determined by the Division of Professional Regulation with reimbursement for expenses.

Takes effect upon enactment but does not apply to current board members' terms as of the enactment date.