HF4595

Purpose

This bill changes how marriage and family therapists (MFTs) can obtain licensure in Minnesota when they are already licensed in another state. It aims to make it easier for qualified therapists from other jurisdictions to become licensed in Minnesota by recognizing similar licensure requirements elsewhere, provided certain conditions are met and the applicant proves they meet Minnesota’s standards.

Main Provisions

• The board must issue an MFT license by reciprocity to an applicant who:
  • Holds a current license as a marriage and family therapist from another jurisdiction.
  • The standards for licensure in that other jurisdiction are at least equivalent to or exceed Minnesota’s requirements (as described in sections 148B.29 to 148B.392 and the board’s rules).
  • Completes an application for licensure by reciprocity on a form provided by the board.
  • Pays the applicable fees under section 148B.392.
  • Holds a current valid and unrestricted license from another jurisdiction.
  • Is licensed in good standing in every jurisdiction where they currently hold a license and is not the subject of disciplinary action or a pending investigation by any licensing authority.
  • Has not been convicted of a crime that would disqualify licensure, as determined by the board.
  • Has passed a Minnesota jurisprudence examination approved by the board.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Adds a formal pathway for licensure by reciprocity with other states for marriage and family therapists, aligning Minnesota’s requirements with out-of-state standards that are at least equivalent to Minnesota’s current requirements.
• Introduces specific eligibility criteria for reciprocity, including good standing, absence of disciplinary actions or investigations, and a Minnesota jurisprudence exam.
• Incorporates payment of fees and formal application on a board-provided form as part of the reciprocity process.
• References the interaction between out-of-state standards (and Minnesota rules) and licensure requirements described in Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 148B.29 to 148B.392 and 148B.392 for fees.

Relevant Terms reciprocity with other states, licensure by reciprocity, marriage and family therapist, board, standards, Minnesota jurisprudence examination, good standing, disciplinary action, pending investigation, current license, jurisdiction, other jurisdiction, fees, Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 148B.29 to 148B.392, 148B.392, valid and unrestricted license, disqualifying crime.