North Carolina legislators introduce bills to join Social Work Interstate Licensure Compact

This week, members of the North Carolina Senate and House of Representative introduced legislation to add North Carolina to the list of states that are members of the Social Work Licensure Compact.

The North Carolina legislation (SB155 and HB231) would allow licensed clinical social workers to apply to provide their services across multiple states. A comprehensive data system would also be created so the public could be kept safe and informed regarding social worker’s current license status and any adverse actions associated with a licensed clinical social worker.

The legislation, sponsored by Senators Corbin, Hise and Burgin in the Senate and Representatives Dr. Reeder, Dr. Campbell, Potts and Blackwell in the House, is a game-changer for our profession and the communities that rely on us.

NASW-NC has worked tirelessly for the last two years to secure the 40 primary and co-sponsors in both the Senate and House of Representatives. NASW-NC is the only organization with registered lobbyists working to advance and promote the social work profession at the North Carolina General Assembly. This work would not be possible without the support of the members of NASW-NC. If you are a social worker and not a member of NASW, we ask that you please join us in this important advocacy work.

Why is this legislation important?

The Social Work Licensure Compact will allow social workers who hold a multistate license to practice across all participating states, eliminating barriers to practice and improving client care. This compact will:

• Enhance the mobility of social workers, making it easier for us to practice in multiple states.
• Improve access to professional social work services by increasing the availability of qualified professionals.
• Support relocating military spouses by enabling them to maintain their licenses across state lines.
• Ensure public safety by creating a comprehensive data system for licensees, including status, investigative information, and adverse actions.

What can you do?

We need your voice to ensure the success of this compact! Here’s how you can take action:

1. Email your Senator: Reach out to your Senator and urge them to support SB155. Explain how this compact will improve the practice of social work in your community and enhance client care. If they are a sponsor be sure to thank them for their support.
2. Email your House member: Reach out to your Representative and urge them to support HB231. Explain how this compact will improve the practice of social work in your community and enhance client care. If they are a sponsor be sure to thank them for their support.
3. Subscribe to NASW-NC Advocacy Alerts: NASW-NC will be working hard to move the legislation through committees and will be letting members know when to reach out to the appropriate committee members with talking points.
4. Join NASW! The NASW-NC lobbying team would not exist without the incredible support of the membership. Thank you if you are a member of NASW. We have been able to do this work because of you!

Together, we can ensure that this compact passes in North Carolina and improves the ability of social workers to provide essential services to those in need!

Follow updates to the Social Work Licensure Compact here.