New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB220

Introduced
12/14/21  
Refer
12/14/21  
Report Pass
1/27/22  
Engrossed
3/23/22  
Refer
3/23/22  
Report Pass
4/20/22  
Report DNP
4/20/22  
Enrolled
5/24/22  
Chaptered
6/1/22  

Caption

Relative to establishing a committee to study licensure of mental health professionals.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would result in the formation of a dedicated committee tasked with reviewing the current licensure criteria and processes across several boards, including those for alcohol and drug abuse counselors, medicine, mental health practice, nursing, and psychology. The committee’s goal is to identify barriers to licensure that may impede timely and efficient access to qualified practitioners and make recommendations that might include changes to synchronizing state licensure standards with those of neighboring states.

Summary

Senate Bill 220 aims to address the shortage of qualified mental health professionals in New Hampshire by establishing a committee to study and make recommendations concerning the licensure of such professionals. The bill emphasizes the competitive landscape that New Hampshire faces concerning neighboring states in attracting qualified mental health staff. Legislative findings suggest that the existing licensure requirements and processes may be influencing the availability of mental health services within the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the committee's findings, particularly regarding the recommendations for potential changes to licensure processes. Stakeholders could express differing views about the effectiveness and implications of proposed changes to licensure laws, especially concerning how they might impact service delivery in communities struggling with mental health issues. Furthermore, the exploration of joining licensure compacts may prompt discussions about the balance between state regulations and the need for standardized, efficient practices to attract a robust mental health workforce.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB57

Establishing a study committee to analyze reducing the number of school administrative units and establishing a commission to study the costs of special education.

NH SB640

relative to the use of artificial intelligence to provide services requiring a professional license.

NH HB1734

(New Title) establishing a committee to study the feasibility of establishing experimental treatment centers in New Hampshire and the oversight thereof.

NH SB421

(New Title) relative to the membership and duties of the trauma medical review committee and establishing a study committee to review the membership and duties of other boards and an appointment related to emergency medical services.

NH SB666

relative to consumer protection, transparency, and oversight of certain health care transactions and establishing a study committee to analyze health insurance providers, their practices, policies, premiums, management, and the impact to consumers.

NH SB248

Establishing a committee to study palliative and hospice care in New Hampshire.

NH SB639

establishing a committee to study the health and safety impacts of Red Dye 40 and other food additives in food and beverages sold in New Hampshire.

NH HB1153

(New Title) establishing a committee to study New Hampshire statutes relative to cats and dogs.

NH HB232

Relative to the rights of conscience for medical professionals.

NH HB232

relative to the rights of conscience for medical professionals.

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