State Board of Social Work Examiners - Board Membership and Certified Social Worker Licenses

This Maryland bill updates the composition of the State Board of Social Work Examiners and clarifies licensing rules for social workers. It ensures the board includes a specific mix of licensed professionals, such as bachelor and master social workers, clinical specialists, and consumer representatives, while allowing any qualified licensee to fill vacancies if a specific category is not immediately appointed. The legislation also simplifies the process for out-of-state applicants seeking licensure by requiring them to hold an equivalent license in their home state and pass that state's exam, rather than taking a separate Maryland exam. Additionally, the bill removes outdated references to "certified social worker" licenses that no longer exist in the state. These changes take effect on June 1, 2024, and were approved by the Governor in May 2024.