MS HB479

Extends the temporary practice permit processing timeline from 30 days to 60 days for marriage and family therapy and psychology license applicants under Mississippi's Universal Recognition of Occupational Licenses Act

Requires licensing boards to suspend and revoke temporary licenses for psychology and marriage and family therapy applicants when criminal background checks or education/training/examination verification comes back insufficient for licensure

Preserves existing education, supervised training, and examination requirements under Mississippi law for psychology (Sections 73-31-14 and 73-31-15) and marriage and family therapy (Section 73-54-23) despite universal license recognition provisions

Maintains the requirement that marriage and family therapists pass the national Examination in Marital and Family Therapy and psychologists pass the Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) at board-established levels

Takes effect July 1, 2026