Committee advances Social Worker Compact to ease multistate licensing

HB 13, which would make Florida a member of the Social Worker Licensure Compact and allow multistate practice by licensed social workers, was reported favorably by the House Health & Human Services Committee.

Representative Hunchofsky presented the bill, saying it would let licensed social workers practicing in compact states continue care for clients who travel or relocate and align Florida with 30 other states that have joined the compact. Christina Casanotte McCarthy, executive director of the National Association of Social Workers Florida chapter, testified the compact would make licensure faster and less costly; she offered one member’s example who paid more than $525 and waited eight weeks for endorsement after relocating.

Committee members emphasized workforce and access: Representative Rosenwald, a former state chapter leader, and Representative Campbell noted the profession’s growth and the compact’s role in maintaining a trained workforce for trauma, disaster response and behavioral health services.

Sabrina called the roll on HB 13 and the clerk’s announcement recorded in the transcript reads "20 5 yays, 0 nays." Chair Tomko announced the bill reported favorably.

The committee record indicates bipartisan committee support aimed at streamlining licensure and improving continuity of care for social work clients across state lines.