NC S249

Authorizes the North Carolina Secretary of Health and Human Services to individually certify licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) to conduct initial involuntary commitment examinations for individuals with mental illness or substance use disorders.

Adds LMFTs to the existing list of health professionals eligible for certification, alongside licensed clinical social workers, nurse practitioners, licensed professional counselors, and physician assistants.

Requires LMFT applicants to complete the Department's standardized involuntary commitment training program and pass the associated examination before certification.

Limits LMFT certification to three-year terms, renewable upon completion of a refresher training program, and does not expand the general scope of practice for LMFTs beyond their existing licensure.

Becomes effective October 1, 2019.