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SF3227 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Exemptions to the practice of social work modification

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to clarify and adjust the exemptions related to the practice of social work within the state of Minnesota. It aims to specify which professionals and occupations are not impeded by social work regulations, ensuring they can continue their qualified functions without misrepresenting themselves as social workers.

Main Provisions

  • The bill amends existing statutes to clearly list the professionals and occupations that are exempt from needing a social work license while allowing them to continue their roles as long as they do not misrepresent themselves as social workers.
  • These exemptions include licensed physicians, nurses, psychologists, probation officers, clergy, attorneys, therapists, counselors, and occupational therapists, among others.
  • Unlicensed persons in occupations regulated under specific state chapters (256B and 245A) are also covered by these exemptions.
  • Notably, the bill emphasizes that having an undergraduate degree in social work does not entitle a person to practice social work, nor exempts them from the jurisdiction of the social work board if they are using titles covered by this amendment.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • This amendment further refines the communication related to the scope of practice, making it clear who can perform certain functions without claiming to be a licensed social worker.
  • The bill adds specific clauses to prevent any misunderstanding about titles or descriptions that imply the practice of social work, ensuring that only individuals with proper social work licensing represent themselves as such.

Relevant Terms

  • Exemptions
  • Social work practice
  • Licensed professionals
  • Occupations
  • Qualifications
  • Misrepresentation
  • Jurisdiction

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
April 01, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
April 01, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toHealth and Human Services

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "'Unlicensed persons performing occupations regulated under chapter 256B' are explicitly included in the exemption list."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill modifies exemptions to the practice of social work under section 148E.065, subdivision 1.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies that having an undergraduate degree in social work does not imply one is engaged in the practice of social work."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "148E.065",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  }
]

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