This year, NASW-WA advocated for changes to the Mental Health Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Social Work Advisory Committee in the Department of Health (Advisory Committee). HB 1234 proposes changes to allow one member of the Advisory Committee, who must be an advanced social worker, to be either an advanced social worker (LASW) or an independent clinical social worker (LICSW). This is due to the historical vacancy of the LASW post on the Advisory Committee due to the small universe of LASW's in WA. The Chapter also wanted to make sure social workers had full representation on the Advisory Committee, since the DOH Secretary will use this Committee to advise on continuing education in the future.

 The bill also specifies that the prohibition against members of the Advisory Committee holding an office in a relevant professional association applies specifically to holding a governing office or board position. This change provides clarify on who can serve on the Advisory Committee.

HB 1234 passed the House and Senate this year and Governor Ferguson signed the bill on April 7th! Thanks to all for your advocacy this year - and many thanks to the bill sponsors, Rep. Tarra Simmons and Rep. Alicia Rule!