MN SF753

Establishes new licensure framework for alcohol and drug counselors under chapter 148F, replacing former chapter 148C, with requirements including bachelor's degree, 18 semester credits in counseling coursework, 880 hours of supervised practicum, and passage of IC&RC AODA examination or board-approved alternative.

Creates grandfathering provisions (January 1, 2013 – December 31, 2014) allowing certain city, state, and private nonprofit agency social workers without standard licensure to become licensed if they held social work titles or practiced social work for minimum six months within three years prior to application.

Modifies social worker licensure requirements effective July 1, 2016, making licensure mandatory for newly employed city/state agency workers who use "social work" titles or provide social work services; maintains voluntary licensure for tribal and private nonprofit agencies serving ethnic minorities until July 1, 2016.

Requires alcohol and drug counselors to complete 40 clock hours of continuing education every two years, including minimum nine hours on diversity and three hours on professional ethics; establishes fee schedule with application fee of $295 and biennial renewal fee of $295.

Modifies licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) conversion requirements, allowing current licensed professional counselors to convert to LPCC status until August 1, 2014, with reduced requirements; after that date, full subdivision 1 requirements apply.