Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB492

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/9/25
• Refer: 10/9/25
• Report Pass: 1/6/26
• Refer: 1/6/26
• Failed: 3/23/26

Caption

An Act to repeal 440.03 (14) (a) 1.; to amend 15.08 (1m) (b), 440.03 (13) (b) 39., 440.03 (14) (b), 440.03 (14) (c), 440.03 (14) (d), 440.08 (2) (a) 67v., 440.08 (2) (a) 67x. and 457.02 (6) (b) 1.; to create 15.405 (18), 440.08 (2) (a) 47b. and chapter 467 of the statutes; Relating to: music therapists, the practice of music therapy, and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The bill defines music therapy as the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions tailored to individual therapeutic goals. This focus seeks to standardize the practices of music therapists and ensure that only qualified individuals can utilize music therapist titles. Additionally, AB492 prohibits the practice of music therapy without a license, thereby elevating the standards of practice and the professional recognition of music therapists in the state.

Summary

AB492 aims to establish a regulatory framework for the practice of music therapy in Wisconsin. The bill calls for the creation of the Music Therapy Examining Board, which will take over the licensure process for music therapists from the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). This new board will consist of licensed music therapists and a public member to ensure informed oversight. To attain a license, applicants must provide proof of board certification as music therapists and possess a bachelor's degree or higher in music therapy or an equivalent program.

Contention

Some notable points of contention include the decision to exclude the practice of psychotherapy from the definition of music therapy, which may limit the scope of practice for music therapists previously registered as mental health providers. Critics argue that this could restrict service delivery options for clients needing more comprehensive mental health support. Furthermore, the bill imposes heightened criminal penalties for practicing without a license, raising fines from a few hundred dollars to up to $10,000 and potential jail time, which some suggest could be overly punitive for practitioners.

Future considerations

The bill's provisions lead to discussions about the potential consequences for the availability of music therapy services in various settings, as well as the administrative burden placed on practitioners and the new board. Stakeholders, including current music therapists and clients, may need to be mobilized to ensure effective implementation and alignment with broader mental health services.