Legislative and/or policy action: temporary license
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

Alabama State Board of Social Work Examiners Administrative Code

850-X-4-.02 Reciprocity and Applications from Non-Residents. 

(4) Reciprocity filed under a State of Emergency proclaimed by the Governor of Alabama upon request a person with a valid and active social work license may be issued a temporary license to practice in this state as long as the State of Emergency is in effect.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statements: 1) Telehealth guidance docs required for practice 2) No increase in license fees during Covid-19 emergency.
Legislation pending: AK H 311 introduced 3/23/20: 1) Expediate licensure out-of-state social workers 2) Wave or modify CE requirements 2) Waive aspects of telemedicine statute. Statute change to insurance law to expand telehealth coverage
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development
Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/cbpl/CBPLCOVID-19Information.aspx

• Telehealth: Guidance on licensing documents to practice in Alaska
• License fees will not be increased during the COVID-19 emergency

AK H 311 – Introduced 3/23/20
Professional Licensing.
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, during the public health disaster emergency declared by the governor under AS 26.23.020 on March 11, 2020, and extended by sec. 3 of this Act, a professional or occupational licensing board listed in AS 08.01.010 or, with regard to any profession regulated by the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, the director of the division that regulates business and professional licensing may, to the extent necessary to respond to the public health disaster emergency, grant a license, permit, or certificate on an expedited basis to an individual who holds a corresponding license, permit, or certificate in another jurisdiction.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law and to the extent necessary to respond to the public health disaster emergency, the board, commission, or director, as applicable, may take additional action necessary to protect public health, safety, and welfare, including

(1) temporarily waiving or modifying the continuing education requirements required for licensees to renew a professional license, permit, or certificate in 2020;
(2) regulating the scope and duration of any license, permit, or certificate issued under this section;
(3) requiring any individual granted a license, permit, or certificate under this section to arrange and agree to supervision, in-person or by other means, by an individual who holds a license, permit, or certificate in good standing for the applicable profession or by an administrator of a facility licensed under AS 47.32.

Telemedicine and Telehealth
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, during the public health disaster emergency declared by the governor under AS 26.23.020 on March 11, 2020, and extended by sec. 3 of this Act, AS 08.64.170 and AS 08.68.160 do not apply to a health care provider who is providing treatment; rendering a diagnosis; or prescribing, dispensing, or administering a prescription, excluding a controlled substance listed under AS 11.71.140 – 11.71.190, through an audio-visual, real-time, two-way interactive communication system, without first conducting an in-person physical examination, if

(1) the health care provider is licensed, permitted, or certified to provide health care services in another jurisdiction and is in good standing in the jurisdiction that issued the license, permit, or certification;
(2) the health care services provided without an in-person physical examination are within the practitioner’s authorized scope of practice in the jurisdiction that issued the license, permit, or certification;
(3) unless the health care provider has a preexisting provider-patient relationship with a patient that is unrelated to COVID-19, the health care services provided are limited to services related to screening for, diagnosing, or treating COVID-19; and
(4) in the event that the health care provider determines that the encounter will extend beyond the scope of practice or scope of services provided for in this section, the health care provider advises the patient that the health care provider is not authorized to provide the services to the patient, recommends that a patient contact a health care provider licensed in the state, and terminates the encounter.

Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development Bulletin 20-07
Changes to coverage for telehealth

This bulletin summarizes the changes made to Alaska insurance law (AS 21.42.422) resulting from the passage of SCS HB 29(HSS) in the second session of the 31st Legislature that was signed into law by the Governor on March 16, 2020. This bulletin is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a full analysis of the statutory change to the insurance code, and a statement in this bulletin does not supersede or modify in any way the statutory provisions of the bill. Please review the bill carefully and the rest of Alaska’s insurance laws to assure your compliance when transacting insurance business in Alaska. The new law may be found at: http://www.legis.state.ak.us/basis/start.asp 

The bill revises AS 21.42.422 to expand telehealth coverage to all covered services of health care insurance plans in the individual and group markets subject to Title 21. Services must be provided by a health care provider licensed in Alaska. A prior in-person visit must not be required. Insurers are required to implement the requirements of AS 21.42.422 immediately. The division expects insurers to review their insurance contracts and make the necessary form filings to implement these changes by May 17, 2020 or as soon as practicable. Insurers are reminded of the following:

• AS 21.07.030 requires that if a health care insurer provides for services through a network, the health care insurer shall also offer a non-network option to covered persons. This requirement is applicable to telehealth. Consumers must be able to access telehealth services from both network and non-network providers.
• AS 21.42.422 does not require health care providers to use a particular technology platform, such as an insurer’s proprietary software for services to be covered. Health care providers must use a HIPAA compliant service to protect consumer privacy.
• The statute does not limit the location of services for telehealth. Within reason, if a service is covered when in-person the service should also be covered when performed via telehealth.
• The federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires that quantitative and nonquantitative elements must be comparative between medical/surgical and behavioral health services

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance statement: 1) Automatic extended exam approval 2) Expedited registration processing 3) Emergency registration 4)  Reinstatment of required registration
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Alberta College of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements:
https://acsw.in1touch.org/site/COVID-19?nav=sidebar

Automatic extension of exam approvals for those affected by the shutdown of Pearson Vue Testing Centers. Check the date on your profile before contacting ASWB. Additional questions can go to registration@acsw.ab.ca and indicate Exam Extension. Those who are completing the clinical exam as for admission to the Clinical Registry please email clinical@acsw.ab.ca and indicate Clinical Exam Extension.

Expedited registration processing: If your new application or reinstatement application is urgent and required for you to be able to practice during this time please alert registration@acsw.ab.ca and indicate Urgent Registration.

Emergency Registration: Registered or Licensed social workers being asked to provide social work services, either in person or remotely, in Alberta will have access to our Courtesy Registry at no cost. Please email registration@acsw.ab.ca and indicate Emergency Courtesy Registry.

Reinstatement of retired registration: Some retired social work members may seek to return to practice to serve communities, organizations, families and individuals during or after this difficult time. For those who have maintained retired membership, we will receive such requests for temporary practice permits at no cost. Please email registration@acsw.ab.ca and indicate Retired Reinstatement.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement: 1) Telehealth information 2)Register as a volunteer health professional. Executive Order: 1) Six month extension renewal for license expiration dates b/t 3/1/20 and 6/1/20 2) Six month extension to complete CE if cannot be completed online 3) Suspend any rules that limit alternative learning hours to renew a license 4) Provisional license issued if all requirements except exam are satisfied. Licensure exemption for non-state residents with consultant status
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners Covid-19 Guidance Statements
http://www.azbbhe.us/node/846

• Telepractice information
• Register as a volunteer health professional for a public health emergency

Arizona Executive Order 2020-17

• Defer requirements to renew licenses that have an expiration date between March 1, 2020 and September 1, 2020 by six months from the expiration date, unless those requirements can be completed online.
• Defer requirements to complete continuing education by six months, unless those requirements can be completed online.
• Suspend any rules that prevent or limit the amount of online or alternative learning hours permitted to issue or renew a license
• State agencies and boards will issue provisional licenses to applicants who have met all other requirements of Arizona statute and administrative code but cannot take the exam because it isn’t provided via electronic or remote format.

Arizona Resolution 2 2020 Health Emergency Declaration and Executive Order

• Declares an emergency, and orders the Department of Health to take action to prevent the spread of COVID 19.
• Allows ADHS to waive licensing requirements to provide healthcare officials with assistance in delivering services during times of heightened demand.

Arizona Revised Statutes Article 3 Licensure
32-3271. Exceptions to licensure; jurisdiction
2. A person who is not a resident of this state if the person:
(a) Performs behavioral health services in this state for not more than ninety days in any one calendar year as prescribed by board rule.
(b) Is authorized to perform these services pursuant to the laws of the state or country in which the person resides or pursuant to the laws of a federally recognized tribe.
(c) Informs the client of the limited nature of these services and that the person is not licensed in this state.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement:  1) CE-100% distance CE is permitted for licenses expiring through 5/31/2020 2) CE-90-day extensions will be granted if needed 3) Renewal dates have not been changed and must be processed per the following: http://www.arkansas.gov/swlb/forms/Renewal-Application-Packet-2019.pdf 4) Telehealth is now permitted 5) Distance supervision is permitted 6) Provisional license and exam approval periods are extended
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Arkansas Social Work Licensing Board Covid-19 Guidance Statement
http://www.arkansas.gov/swlb/covid-19-update.html

For the latest update, please send a NEW (not a response) blank email to swlb@arkansas.gov . Under the subject line, write TEST. You should receive the automatic reply with answers to frequently asked questions.

Social Work Continuing Education
Social Workers whose license expire on March 31, 2020, April 30, 2020 and May 31, 2020 will be allowed to submit all online continuing education hours if needed. For each licensee, the renewal date stays the same. If your renewal is due March 31, 2020, it is still due March 31, 2020. The same is true for April and May. The expiration date does not change. At this time, if someone in March, April or May does not have the 48 required hours when they submit their renewal, the Board will automatically grant up to a 90-day extension to complete the additional hours. If you do not submit the renewal application packet and fee by your expiration date, your license will expire. Currently the online renewal system is not working and not expected to work by the end of March, possibly April. All renewals must be submitted by using the renewal application packet which can be found on the Board’s website under forms. http://www.arkansas.gov/swlb/forms/Renewal-Application-Packet-2019.pdf The Board has made an exception to the Money Order or Cashier’s check policy during these renewal periods only. We understand people may not want to get out to purchase a money order or cashiers check so we will be accepting personal checks for March, April and May renewals only.
For right now, social workers whose licenses expire after May 31, 2020 and were counting on face-to-face hours that have now been cancelled, we are directing you to look for webinars that are live and interactive. If the webinar is live and interactive, it counts the same as face-to-face.  NASW and many other CEU providers are working hard to make hours available. Below are a few links.
https://naswar.org/
https://www.socialworkers.org/Careers/Continuing-Education
https://www.tzkseminars.com/Custom/TZKSeminars/Pages/Webinars-and-Home-Study.aspx?cat=2
https://facebook.com/events/s/seriously-2020-a-live-stream-e/2768157216571917/?ti=as

Telemedicine
Please click here for the new Telemedicine Rule (Ark. Code Ann. §17-103-309)
NEW http://www.arkansas.gov/swlb/laws_regs.html Updated as soon as possible!
Arkansas Social Work Licensing Law: 17-103-309. Practice by electronic, telephonic, or other means.
The provision of social work services to a client within this state through any means, including without limitation electronic means or by telephone, regardless of the location of the social worker, constitutes the practice of social work and is subject to this chapter and to rules adopted under this chapter.
Please keep in mind that the Governor may make changes under an Emergency Proclamation and our Board will honor the terms of any such orders. Also, please check with the Division of Medical Services and/or your insurance provider. https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/resources/response-covid-19/response-covid-19-providers
As a reminder, your Arkansas Social Work License is only valid in Arkansas. Arkansas social workers are not required to obtain certification in order to practice telemedicine.

LCSW Supervision
The Board voted to allow LMSW’s who are receiving supervision toward their LCSW license to receive their supervision via telemedicine methods during the public health crisis only. If the LMSW is not working, supervision should not be taking place.

Examination
We were made aware of ASWB and Pearson closing and the need to reschedule appointments to take the exam.  https://www.aswb.org/
The Board decided to extend the provisional and the examination period for those exam candidates who have expiration dates of April 8, 2020 and May 13, 2020. April 8th candidates and Provisionals will be extended to June 8th and May 13th candidates and Provisionals will be extended to July 13th. The Board will reconsider these dates should ASWB and the testing centers close for a longer period of time. A Provisional who has already taken the exam the three allowed times will expire on their expiration date. These candidates will be notified by mail or email. For provisional licenses and exam approvals after May 13, 2020, the Board will consider options, if necessary, at a later date.
Listed below are the answers to the most commonly asked questions. We will respond to your email as soon as possible unless your question is answered below. Most answers may be found on our website, www.arkansas.gov/swlb. Deadlines and Board meetings dates are posted as well.
Normal office hours are 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. Due to meetings, appointments, vacation and other activities, it is advisable to call first to make sure the office is open before coming in person. You may drop paperwork off by sliding information under the door.

Continuing education
The Board does not pre-approve social work continuing education. (SWCE) The social worker is responsible for making sure that the content of the course they attend meets the definition of social work continuing education. Please click the Continuing Education tab on the Board’s website for more information. Webinars that are both LIVE and INTERACTIVE are considered the same as face-to-face.

Renewal
If you need to renew your license, you can do so by going to our homepage www.arkansas.gov/swlb and clicking on “Online Services”, “License Renewal”. If you wish to renew by paper, please click on “Forms” and print the renewal application packet.
The Board follows the guidelines set forth in the Arkansas Administrative Procedures Act that states: “When a licensee has made timely and sufficient application for the renewal of his/her license, the existing license shall not expire until the application has been determined by the Board.” Arkansas Code 25-15-211 (b). Renewals made online will receive a payment confirmation and verification letter by email.

Degree
Arkansas law requires that you have a Social Work degree. The degree earned must be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Supervision
There are two types of supervision.
All LSW’s and LMSW’s (includes PLSW and PLMSW) must be supervised as a part of their job. This type of supervision is the employers responsibility and the Board does not require or accept a plan for this type of supervision.
Supervision towards LCSW licensure must be documented on a Supervision Plan and turned in to the Board within 60-days of beginning supervision. This supervision must be by a LCSW. Supervision towards LCSW licensure may begin with your provisional license.  These Supervision Plans are not approved by the Board. They are only placed in the file. This type of supervision is not a substitute for on the job supervision. Please use updated forms.

License verification
Licenses may be verified online at www.arkansas.gov/swlb. The site is updated once per month after the Board meets. There is a $20 fee for written verification or endorsement to another state. The fee must be a money order or cashier’s check.

Applications
You may apply online or by paper. Paper forms are available under “Forms” on the Board’s website. An Application Checklist and Instructions are also available if you are a new applicant.

Criminal Background Checks
All applicants for licensure (including those currently licensed and applying for advancement) must apply for a criminal background check. The Board must have the results of the background check along with all other paperwork prior to reviewing your application. Once your application is received, we will mail you the required forms.

Provisional License
There is not an application for provisional license. Your application is for the level of license you qualify for. The provisional license is issued only if you are a first-time applicant and meet the qualifications for licensure. The provisional is good for one year or three attempts to pass the exam, whichever comes first.  The provisional can only be issued once and is not renewable.

Continuing Education
The Board does not pre-approve social work continuing education. (SWCE) The social worker is responsible for making sure that the content of the course they attend meets the definition of social work continuing education. Please click the Continuing Education tab on the Board’s website for more information.  Webinars that are both LIVE and INTERACTIVE are considered the same as face-to-face.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement: 1) Temporary inclusion of social workers as mental health professionals for PSHCP 2) Reminder that registration is required in the jurisdiction where the client resides 3) Application for temporary registration for emergency responders 4) Modifications to FOIPPA
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

British Columbia College of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements: http://www.bccollegeofsocialworkers.ca/covid-19/

Application for Temporary Registration for Emergency Responders
http://www.bccollegeofsocialworkers.ca/application-information/registration-categories/temporary-registration/

Ministerial Order No. M085
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020CITZ0005-000588

• Enables the broader use of communications tools for health-care workers and other public-sector staff who are responding to the COVID-19 state of emergency
• Permits disclosure of personal information in specific circumstances in response to Covid-19

Temporary Measures: Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP)

• Until April 24th, 2020, social workers will be included as mental health professionals along with psychologists for all PSHCP members and eligible dependents.
• For further information visit Government of Canada website at https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/benefit-plans/health-care-plan/information-notices/covid-19-temporary-measures-public-service-health-care-plan.html

Registered social workers, who reside in British Columbia and provide services to clients in other jurisdictions, are responsible for knowing the registration requirements where the client resides. Many jurisdictions require social workers to be registered within that jurisdiction to provide services and may require different levels of registration depending on the nature of the social work practice. Further information can be obtained by contacting the appropriate regulatory agency.

Legislative and/or policy action:  Guidance Statement: 1) Clarifies existing regulations permit licensees to perform telehealth services 2) When possible, working to reschedule exams and will honor any fees applied or provide refunds 3) Direction regarding the Emergency Medical Services Authority provided 4) Temporary waiver of CA Law & Ethics exam for registrations expiring on or before June 30, 2020
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

California Board of Behavioral Sciences Statements on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Telehealth
https://www.bbs.ca.gov/pdf/coronavirus_statement.pdf
https://www.bbs.ca.gov/pdf/bbs_stmt_licensees.pdf

All California licensed marriage and family therapists, educational psychologists, clinical social workers, and professional clinical counselors are permitted to perform services with clients who are located in California via telehealth.

The BBS will be working to ensure that expedited exam processing will occur when they return and will be looking at ways to mitigate delays. They are actively working to reschedule exams and honoring any fees applied or providing refunds when necessary.

There are no changes to continuing education requirements at this time.

If you have a registration that expires on or before June 30, 2020 and have not yet passed or attempted the CA Law & Ethics exam, your registration will be renewed after paying the required fees and answering the required questions. If you have previously submitted the required fee, your registration will be renewed soon.

Out-of-state licensees: If you are a licensed healthcare provider in a state other than California, please visit the Emergency Medical Services Authority (https://emsa.ca.gov/covid19/) for information to be able to practice in California. Please visit the “Authorization of Out-Of-State Medical Personnel” section of the CBBS website.

FAQ related to Executive Order N-39-20
https://bbs.ca.gov/pdf/bbs_wavier_faqs.pdf

Important information on Law Waivers
https://www.dca.ca.gov/licensees/dca_waivers.shtml

Healthcorps website to sign up to assist
https://covid19.ca.gov/healthcorps/

BBS statement  on telehealth
https://bbs.ca.gov/pdf/coronavirus_statement.pdf

BBS statement on HHS telehealth announcement
https://bbs.ca.gov/pdf/bbs_stmt_hhs_telehealth.pdf

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: 1) Extends license exemption for non-state residents with consultant status to beyond twenty days of practice per year 2) Directs DORA to promulgate emergency rules to expand the use of telehealth and require insurance coverage. License exemption for non-state residents with consultant status
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Colorado Executive Order D 2020 020

• F. Temporarily suspends the requirement in C.R.S. § 12-245-217(2)(e)(II) that a person residing in and licensed or certified in another state as a psychologist, marriage and family therapist, clinical social worker, professional counselor, or addiction counselor does not exceed twenty (20) days per year of performing activities or services in Colorado.
• H. Directs the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies’ (DORA) Division of Insurance (DOI) to promulgate and issue emergency rules requiring health insurance carriers regulated by the State to permit providers to deliver clinically appropriate, medically necessary covered services using telehealth services. I also direct DOI to promulgate and issue emergency rules aimed at expanding the use of telehealth services, including by broadening the definition of “telehealth,” during the COVID-19 outbreak in the State.

Colorado Revised Statues
12-43-407 Exemptions
(9) The provisions of this article shall not apply to a person who resides in another state and who is currently licensed or certified as a psychologist, marriage and family therapist, clinical social worker, professional counselor, or addiction counselor in that state to the extent that the licensed or certified person performs activities or services in this state, if the activities and services are:
(a) Performed within the scope of the person’s license or certification;
(b) Do not exceed twenty days per year in this state;
(c) Are not otherwise in violation of this article; and
(d) Disclosed to the public that the person is not licensed or certified in this state.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: 1) Authorizes agency action to suspend licensure requirements 2) DOH suspends licensing requirements for out-of-state licensees for a period of 60-days 3) Medicaid authorization for audio-only telehealth services
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Connecticut Executive Order No. 7B
Flexibility to Provide For Adequate Healthcare Resources and Facilities. Sections 19a610 through l 9a-689 of the Connecticut General Statutes and any related regulations, rules, or policies are modified to authorize the Executive Director of the Office of Health Strategy to waive provisions of such sections as she deems necessary to ensure that adequate healthcare resources and facilities are available to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and to issue any implementing orders that she deems necessary.

Connecticut Executive Order 7F
Expands Medicaid Telehealth Coverage to Audio-Only Telephone.
Section 17b-262 of the Connecticut General Statutes and any implementing regulations, policies rules or other directives related to the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program, whether or not specifically adopted pursuant to said statute, are modified to authorize the Commissioner of Social Services to temporarily waive any requirements contained therein as the Commissioner deems necessary to enable the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program to cover applicable services provided through audio-only telehealth services. The Commissioner may issue any order and take other action that she deems necessary to implement this order.

Connecticut Executive Order 7K
Suspension or Modification of Regulatory Requirements to Protect Public Health and Safety. Notwithstanding Sections 4-168 to 4-174, inclusive, of the Connecticut General Statutes, the Commissioner of Public Health may temporarily waive, modify or suspend any regulato1y requirements adopted by the Commissioner of Public Health or any Boards or Commissions under Chapters 368a, 368d, 368v, 369 to 381a, inclusive, 382a, 383 to 388, inclusive, 398 to 399, inclusive, 400a, 400e and 474 of the Connecticut General Statutes as the Commissioner of Public Health deems necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and to protect the public health.

Connecticut Department of Health Order
Suspends licensure requirements for sixty days following March 23, 2020 to allow persons who are appropriately licensed, certified or registered in another state or territory of the United States or District of Columbia to render temporary assistance to Connecticut within the scope of the profession for which a provider is licensed, certified or registered.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statements: 1) Renewal dates are unchanged 2) CE: If needed licensees granted an extension of sixty days following the lifting of the state of the emergency
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Delaware Division of Professional Regulation Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://dpr.delaware.gov/infoguide/

License renewal dates will remain the same.

Continuing education: Any licensee who attests to having difficulty completing CEs because of the declared state of emergency will be granted until sixty days after the lifting of the state of emergency to complete CEs for this renewal cycle.

Legislative and/or policy action: Licensure exemption for emergency responders. Temporary license upon order of the Mayor. Waiver of licensure requirements for health care providers. Telehealth now permitted
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

District of Columbia Board of Social Work Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://dchealth.dc.gov/node/161602

Order of the Mayor waives licensure requirements for health care providers
https://dchealth.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/page_content/attachments/Order%20-%20Licensure%20Waivers.20.03.13.pdf

Telehealth now permitted
https://dchealth.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/doh/page_content/attachments/Memo%20-%20Guidance%20on%20the%20Use%20of%20Telehealth.pdf

District of Columbia Official Code Subchapter V Licensing of Health Professionals
Section 3-1205.02. Exemptions
The provisions of this chapter prohibiting the practice of a health occupation without a license shall not apply:
(1) To an individual who administers treatment or provides advice in any case of emergency;

Code of the District of Columbia
§ 3-1205.08a. Temporary license, registration, or certification.
A board may issue a temporary license, registration, or certification to an applicant for a fixed period of time, under conditions prescribed by the Mayor through rulemaking, who is licensed, registered, or certified and in good standing to practice in another jurisdiction.

§ 3–1203.02. Responsibilities of Mayor.
(12) Issuing rules, as the Mayor may periodically determine to be necessary to protect the health and welfare of the citizens of the District, for the temporary licensure for a fixed period of time not to exceed 90 days and under conditions to be prescribed by the Mayor by rule, of applicants for licensure to practice a health occupation in the District, except the Mayor may provide for the issuance of temporary licenses to applicants for licensure to practice social work and marriage and family therapy for a period not to exceed 1 year, and to applicants for licensure to practice as anesthesiologist assistants for a period not to exceed 2 years;

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order:: 1) Authorizes out-of-state professionals with a valid license to offer services to clients in-state 2) Suspends licensure renewal deadlines between 3/21/2020 and April 30, 2020 to May 31, 2020 3) State licensing boards may conduct business via teleconference. Emergency Rule Change: 1) Distance supervision permitted for social work interns 2) Clinical interns may provide telehealth services for 90 days following 3/19/20 within provided guidelines; additional changes pending 4/3/20 board meeting
Covid-19 policy action issued: YES

Florida Executive order 51 2020
Among other orders, medical professionals and workers, social workers, and counselors with good and valid professional licenses issued by states other than the State of Florida may render such services in Florida during this emergency for persons affected by this emergency with the condition that such services be rendered to such persons free of charge, and with the further condition that such services be rendered under the auspices of the American Red Cross or the Florida Department of Health.

Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy and Mental Health Notice of an Emergency Rule No. 64B4ER20-2
https://floridasmentalhealthprofessions.gov/latest-news/mental-health-by-telehealth/

• Expands the definition of “face-to-face psychotherapy,” to allow registered interns under certain conditions to continue meeting their supervision requirements without placing themselves, their clients, or their supervisors at unnecessary risk.
• For the purposes of preparing for, responding to, and mitigating any effect of COVID-19, on March 19, 2020, the Board held an emergency meeting to discuss emergency rule 64B4ER20-20, Florida Administrative Codes. This rule allows registered interns to provide telehealth services to existing clients during the next 90 days if they establish and adhere to the following:
  • The registered intern has an established qualified supervisor and maintains the same qualified supervisor for the duration of the application of the rule;
  • The registered intern has a written telehealth protocol and safety plan in place with their current qualified supervisor which includes the provision that the qualified supervisor must be readily available during the electronic therapy session: and
  • The registered intern and the client have an existing therapeutic relationship established prior to the effective date of this rule.
  • The emergency rule also allows qualified supervisors to utilize face-to-face electronic methods (not telephone only communication) to conduct all supervision sessions for internship hours.

Florida Executive order 52 2020

• Any upcoming licensure renewal deadlines between March 21 and April 30, 2020, for any professional license issued by the Department or a Department board or council are extended until May 31, 2020. Any statute and/or rule to the contrary is hereby suspended until May 31, 2020, unless extended by order of the State Surgeon General
• For purposes of preparing for, responding to, and mitigating any effect of COVID-19, the state licensing boards may conduct licensure approval and denial hearings, and disciplinary hearings involving standard of care, sexual misconduct, fraud, impairment, or felony convictions through teleconferencing or other technological means. This exception to section 456.011(3), Florida Statutes, applies for a period of thirty days unless extended by order of the State Surgeon General. Any statute and/or rule to the contrary is hereby suspended for the period of time provided in this paragraph, unless extended by order of the State Surgeon General.
• For purposes of preparing for, responding to, and mitigating any effect of COVID-19, health care professionals not licensed in this state may provide health care services to a patient in this state using telehealth, notwithstanding the requirements of section 456.47(4)(a) through (c), (h), and (i), Florida Statutes, for a period not to exceed 30 days unless extended by order of the State Surgeon General. In addition to the allowed professions under Department of Health Emergency Order 20-002, this exemption shall apply to the following out of state health care professionals holding a valid, clear, and unrestricted license in another state or territory in the United States who are not currently under investigation or prosecution in any disciplinary proceeding in any of the states in which they hold a license: clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, and psychologists. All other requirements in section 456.47(4) remain in effect, including the requirement that the health care professional provide health care services within the applicable scope of practice established by Florida law or rule. Any statute and/or rule to the contrary is hereby suspended for a period of thirty days, unless extended

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statements: Proposed changes to CE requirements pending
Covid-19 policy action issued: YES

Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing/plb/43
Proposed changes to Board Rule 135-9 Continuing Education pending

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: 1) Telehealth-Permitted regardless of client location 2) Telehealth-Must be covered by insurers without preauthorization approval
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Executive Order to Expand Telehealth Services-
– Section 1. “Telehealth Services” shall be defined to include the prov1s1011 of health care, psychiat1y, mental health treatment, substance use disorder treatment, and related services to a patient, regardless of their location, through electronic or telephonic methods, such as telephone (landline or cellular), video technology commonly available on smart phones and other devices such as FaceTime, Facebook Messenger video chat, Google Hangouts video, or Skype, and videoconferencing, as well as any method within the meaning of “telehealth services” under Section 356z.22 of the Illinois Insurance Code, 215 ILCS 5. “Health insurance coverage” and “health insurance issuer” shall have the meanings given in Section 5 of the Illinois Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, 215 ILCS 97.
– Section 2. Beginning March 19, 2020 and continuing for the duration of the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation, in order to protect the public’s health, to permit expedited treatment of health conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to mitigate its impact upon the residents of the State of Illinois, all health insurance issuers regulated by the Department of Insurance are hereby required to cover the costs of all Telehealth Services rendered by in-11etwork providers to deliver any clinically appropriate, medically necessary covered services and treatments to insureds, enrollees, and members under each policy, contract, or ce1iificate of health insurance coverage.
Issuers may establish reasonable requirements and parameters for Telehealth Services, including with respect to documentation and recordkeeping, to the extent consistent with this Executive Order or any company bulletin subsequently issued by the Department of Insurance under this Executive Order. An issuer’s requirements and parameters may not be more restrictive or less favorable toward providers, insureds, enrollees, or members than those contained in the emergency rulemaking undertaken by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services at 89 Ill. Adm. Code 140.403(e). Issuers shall notify providers of any instructions necessary to facilitate billing for Telehealth Services.
– Section 3. In order to ensure that health care is quickly and efficiently provided to the public, health insurance issuers shall not impose upon Telehealth Services utilization review requirements that are unnecessary, duplicative, or unwarranted, nor impose any treatment limitations that are more stringent than the requirements applicable to the same health care service when rendered in-person. For Telehealth Services delivered by in-network providers that relate to COVID-19, health insurance issuers shall not impose any prior authorization requirements.
– Section 4. Health insurance issuers shall not impose any cost-sharing (copayments, deductibles, or coinsurance) for Telehealth Services provided by in-network providers. However, in accordance with the standards and definitions in 26 U.S.C. 223, if an enrollee in a “high-deductible health plan” has not met the applicable deductible under the terms of their coverage, the requirements of this Section do not require an issuer to pay for a charge for Telehealth Services unless the associated health care service for that particular charge is deemed “preventive care” by the United States Treasury. The federal Internal Revenue Service recently has recognized that services for testing, treatment, and any potential vaccination for COVID-19 fall within the scope of “preventive care.”
– Section 5. Telehealth Services subject to this Executive Order’s coverage requirements may be provided by any in-network physicians, physiciai1 assistants, optometrists, advanced practice registered nurses, clinical psychologists, prescribing psychologists, dentists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, physical therapists, clinical social workers, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, hearing instrument dispensers, other mental health providers, and other substance use disorder treatment providers, as long as they are licensed, registered, ce1iified, or authorized to practice in the State of Illinois, regardless of whether or not the in-network provider was originally established prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in any designated telehealth network for the policy, contract, or ce1iificate of health insurance coverage. Existing insurance law requirements regarding coverage of treatments based on licensure apply, such as the coverage requirements for treatment of autism spectrum disorders contained in Section 356z.14 of the Illinois Insurance Code, 215 ILCS 5.
– Section 6. This Executive Order does not apply to “excepted benefits” as defined by 45 C.F.R. 146.145(b) and 45 C.F.R. 148.220, but does apply to limited scope dental benefits, limited scope vision benefits, long-term care benefits, coverage only for accidents, or coverage only for specified disease or illness. This Executive Order applies to short-term, limited-duration health insurance coverage, fully insured student health insurance coverage, and fully insured association health plans except with respect to excepted benefits as provided above. Any policy, contract, or certificate of health insurai1ce coverage that does not distinguish between in-network and out-of­network providers shall be subject to this Executive Order as though all providers were in-network.
– Section 7. The Department of Insurance may provide additional guidance and implement rules consistent with the terms of this Executive Order.
– Section 8. Beginning March 19, 2020 and continuing for the duration of the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation, the following statutory limitations pursuant to Section 5 of Illinois’ Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act, 740 ILCS 110/5, are suspended for the provision of Telehealth Services to mental health and developmental disability patients in Illinois:
l. The disclosure prohibitions as to records and communications pursuant to 740 ILCS 10/5(a).
2.The written consent provisions pursuant to 740 ILCS 110/5(b ).
– Section 9. A covered health care provider and/or covered entity subject to the requirements of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act, 740 ILCS 110, that uses audio or video communication technology to provide Telehealth Services to mental health and developmental disability patients may use any non-public facing remote communication product in accordance with Section 1 of this Executive Order for the duration of the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation. This exercise of discretion applies to Telehealth Service providers or covered entities for any reason, regardless of whether the Telehealth Service concerns the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions related to COVID-19. Providers and covered entities should, to the extent feasible, notify patients that third-party applications potentially introduce privacy risks. Providers should enable all available encryption and privacy modes when using such applications. Facebook Live, Twitch, TikTok, and similar video communication applications which are public facing should not be used in the provision of telehealth by covered health care providers or covered entities.
– Section 10. During the duration of the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation, the following requirements of the Medical Practice Act of 1987, 225 ILCS 60/21, for reinstatement of a license are suspended for licensees whose licenses have been lapsed or inactive for less than three years: (1) proof of meeting continuing education requirements for one renewal period; and (2) payment of a reinstatement fee.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statements: 1) Telehealth permitted via EO 20-50 2) Social workers deemed critical / priority for fingerprinting. Executive Order: 1) Authorizes out-of-state professionals with a valid license to offer services in Indiana 2)Telemedicine permitted. Licensure exemption for non-state residents with consultant status
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.in.gov/pla/social.htm

• Telehealth permitted via EO 20–5
• Critical fingerprinting: Social workers are deemed critical and will be given priority

Indiana Executive Order 20-50
A. Suspension of the requirement that a health care provider hold an Indiana license if he or she:
(1) has an equivalent license from another State, and
(2) is not suspended or barred from practice in that State or any State
B. Mental health professionals are permitted to practice via telemedicine.

Indiana Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, Mental Health Counselors, and Addiction Counselors, A compilation of Indiana Code and Administrative Code
25-23.6-4-2 Exemptions
(3) Not a resident of Indiana if the person performed social work in Indiana for not more than five (5) days in any one (1) month or more than fifteen (15) days in any one (1) calendar year and the person is authorized to perform such services under the laws of the state or country in which the person resides.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statements: ) No change for license renewal or CE requirements 2) Supervisees obtaining experience for the independent level are not required to have their first supervision meeting in-person 3) Out-of-state social workers may provide electronic services to clients in-state. Executive Order: 1) Suspends any restrictions on the provision of telehealth 2) Suspends clinical supervision requirements for licensure 3) Permits out-of-state social workers to offer telehealth to clients in Iowa
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Iowa Board of Social Work Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://idph.iowa.gov/Licensure/Iowa-Board-of-Social-Work
Emergency Proclamation Guidelines

The suspension of rules identified in the Proclamation is effective through April 16, 2020, unless the Governor terminates or extends the Proclamation.

• License renewal: Expiration is not until 12/31/20; no impact anticipated.
• Continuing education: No change; all CE can be obtained online as is usual.
• Supervision requirements: Licensees who begin their period of supervised professional practice for licensure at the independent level while the Proclamation is in effect are not required to have their first supervision meeting in person. Licensees are already permitted to have the remaining supervision meetings via electronic means.
• Out-of-state social workers: For the duration of the Proclamation, individuals who are licensed as social workers in another state, whose license is in good standing, may provide services to Iowans through electronic means without obtaining a license from the Board.Governor Proclamation of Disaster Emergency
  Temporarily suspends the regulatory provisions of low Code§ 147.137 and Iowa Admin. Code rule 653-13.11, rule 641- 155.2, and other implementing administrative rules establishing preconditions, limitations, or restrictions on the provision of telehealth or telemedicine services, and I temporarily suspend the regulatory provisions of low Admin. Code rules 641-155.21(19) and 155.23(4) and other administrative rules which require face-to-face interactions with health care providers and impose requirements for residential and outpatient substance use disorder treatment and for face­-to-face visitations.

Governor Proclamation
Section Seven. Pursuant to Iowa Code § 29C.6(6), I temporarily suspend the regulatory provisions of Iowa Admin. Code r 281-79.16(4)(a), 645-31.6(2)(b)(12), 645-280.6(3), 645-240.6(2), 657-4.3, 645-300.3(4)(b)(2), 300.6(3)(a), and 300.6(3)(d), requiring the completion of clinical, practical, or internship experience as a condition of obtaining professional licensure to be a school administrator, mental health counselor, independent social worker, psychologist, pharmacist, or speech pathologist or audiologist. Suspension of these provisions shall extend through the duration of this Proclamation and any future extension of this suspension. I hereby direct all regulatory agencies or boards governed by these provisions to provide additional guidance to licensees regarding the effect of these suspensions.
Section Fifteen. Pursuant to Iowa Code § 29C.6(6), I temporarily suspend the regulatory provisions of Iowa Admin. Code r. 645-280.2 and 645-31.18, to the extent that they require out-of-state marital, family therapy, and mental health counselors, or social workers who provide services by telephone or other electronic means to individuals in the State of Iowa to be licensed in Iowa.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement: 1) Direct client contact clinical supervision may be obtained through telehealth but cannot be telephone only conferencing 2) Clarification provided for existing regulatory provisions for telehealth for social workers licensed in Kansas
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://ksbsrb.ks.gov/
Direct client contact clinical supervision requirements

• The board has determined that the term “client contact” includes face to face therapy whether in person or by other electronic means.  Therefore, client contact via teletherapy may be used toward the accrual of the 1,500-hour requirement of direct client contact when working toward the clinical level of licensure.
• However, services by telephonic conferencing may not be counted toward the 1,500-hour requirement of direct client contact as telephonic conferencing does not meet the face-to-face requirement.

BSRB Important Information Regarding Telemental Health
https://ksbsrb.ks.gov/docs/default-source/default-document-library/important-information-regarding-telemental-health1665e446357f69b7acc5ff0000cef974.pdf?sfvrsn=da1a8d85_0

There are no statutes or regulations that apply solely to telemental health (teletherapy).

• All statutes and regulations apply to all services provided regardless of how the services are provided (in-person or by telemental health).
• Per Kansas requirements, if the client is physically located in Kansas when services are being provided, the licensed provider must be licensed in the State of Kansas. Kansas does have the option of a temporary permit for those who hold an independent license in another state. Links have been provided below for each profession’s temporary out of state permit application.
• If the client is physically located in another state when services are being provided, the licensee must contact the state board where the client is located to determine licensure and telemental health requirements.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: Suspends statutes and regulations.
Guidance Statement: 1) Suspends licensure renewal 2) Permits telehealth 3) Face to face clinical supervision rules suspended 4) LCSW supervisor training requirement suspended 5) Suspends direct client contact requirement for clinical supervised experience 6) CE requirements suspended 7) Limit of temporary permits is suspended 8) Emergency temporary permit for out-of-state social workers to practice telehealth with clients in Kentucky prior to 3/7/2020
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Kentucky Executive Order 2020-243
Suspends any statute or regulation that conflicts with the provisions of the Order.

Kentucky Board of Social Work Guidance Statement
https://bsw.ky.gov/Pages/index.aspx

• Review of application deadlines suspended: All deadlines related to the review of applications for completion or acceptance shall be suspended until the state of emergency is lifted.
• Licensure expiration dates/renewal suspended: Expiration dates of all currently held licenses under these sections shall be suspended until the state of emergency is lifted.
• Telehealth: Until the state of emergency is lifted, and in order to meet the mandates of social distancing, “treating clinical social worker” for purposes of providing telehealth services under the provisions of this statute, shall include CSWs that are under board-approved clinical supervision of an LCSW supervisor.
• Face to face clinical supervision suspended: The requirement that supervision occur face-to-face is suspended. Supervision, as required by the administrative regulation, may occur electronically as defined in 201 KAR 23:070 Section 1(2).
• LCSWs providing supervision to CSWs: The requirement that the three-hour training course on supervisory practice required for LCSW supervisors during each licensure period is suspended in that the deadline to complete such a course is suspended until the state of emergency is lifted.
• Client contact during supervision: The requirement that a CSW be engaging in direct client care while receiving clinical supervision under a board approved supervision contact is suspended until the state of emergency is lifted. CSWs will be allowed to receive supervision whether or not they are seeing clients directly during the state of emergency under their previously board-approved clinical supervision contract.
• Distribution and method of supervision hours between CSW supervisee and LCSW supervisor: The requirement that electronic supervision be limited to 50% of all supervision hours, and only occur after the first 25 hours of supervision, is suspended until the state of emergency is lifted.

Continuing Education deadlines: Deadlines for obtaining continuing education course credits are hereby suspended until the state of emergency is lifted.

• Method of presenting Continuing Education hours: Any continuing education course approved to occur in-person may occur using electronic media or technology, including distance learning, online or teleconference courses, so long as the content remains the same as previously approved.
• Continuing Education approval and renewal: Any deadlines for the approval or renewal of continuing education programs due from providers and sponsors are suspended until the state of emergency is lifted.

Temporary permits: The 240-day limit of temporary permits is suspended until the state of emergency is lifted.

Emergency Temporary License for telehealth. The new license will be offered, during the state of emergency, to licensed clinical social workers who hold a license in good standing from the jurisdictions contiguous to Kentucky; the LCSW (or equivalent) must have had an existing client relationship, which existed on or before March 7, 2020, to qualify for the license.

Legislative and/or policy action: Board Action: 1) Extend the CEU deadline to 09/30/2020 2) Waive in-person CE requirement 3)Distance supervision permitted through 09/30/2020. Licensure exemption for emergency responders

Temporary license
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners Action
Recent Board actions:
1. Extend the CEU deadline from June 30 to September 30
2. Waiver of the 10 in-person hours of continuing education for the current collection period.
3. Allow supervision to be conducted through electronic means through September 30.

Louisiana Revised Statues Title 37 Chapter 35 Social Workers
Section 2722 Exclusions
A. No provision of this Chapter shall be construed to prohibit:
C. An individual licensed to practice social work in another jurisdiction who is providing services within the scope of practice designated by such license and in response to a disaster declared by the appropriate authority or governor of the state may, upon prior written notice of the board, provide such services in this jurisdiction for a period of time not to exceed sixty consecutive days per year without applying for a license. The practitioner who provides services under this Subsection shall be deemed to have submitted to the jurisdiction of the board and be bound by the laws of this state.

Louisiana Revised Statutes
37:2722 – Exclusions
A. An individual licensed to practice social work in another jurisdiction may, upon prior written application to the board, practice social work in this jurisdiction within the scope of practice designated by such license no more than thirty days per year without applying for a license. Practice privileges under this Subsection shall apply only if the requirements for a license in such other jurisdictions are substantially similar to the requirements for licensure in this jurisdiction. The thirty-day period shall commence on the date of receipt by the board of the written application. The practitioner who provides services under this Subsection shall be deemed to have submitted to the jurisdiction of the applicable board and be bound by the laws of this state.
C. An individual licensed to practice social work in another jurisdiction who is providing services within the scope of practice designated by such license and in response to a disaster declared by the appropriate authority or governor of the state may, upon prior written notice of the board, provide such services in this jurisdiction for a period of time not to exceed sixty consecutive days per year without applying for a license. The practitioner who provides services under this Subsection shall be deemed to have submitted to the jurisdiction of the board and be bound by the laws of this state.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: Suspends license requirements to practice in Maryland; suspends license renewal or expiration requirements. Licensure exemption for emergency responders. Guidance Statement: 1) Telehealth-Revised to allow audio-only 2) Telehealth-HIPPA restrictions eased 3) Telehealth-Expansion of Medicaid telehealth services with the home as an originating site BH classified as essential services 4) LCSW can practice, LMSW only under supervision 5) Out-of-State licensees can practice < 6 months. Supervision permitted via visual technological communication. 7) CE requirements are unchanged 8) Board sponsors may change format to live, real-time, interactive webinars
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Maryland 3 2020
https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Licenses-Permits-Registration.pdf
Suspends licensure requirements and similar authorizations issued by the State of Maryland and any agency of the state.
Suspends the expiration or renewal of a license during the state of emergency.

Maryland Health Occupations Code Title 19. Social Workers
§ 19-301. License required; exceptions; practice without license
(b) Exceptions. — This section does not apply to:
(2) An individual licensed as a social worker in another state while responding to an emergency in this State;

Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners Guidance Statement
– The regulatory requirements for noncompliance under HIPPA Rules have been lowered and the Office of Civil Rights will not impose penalties against covered health care providers in connection with the good faith provision of telehealth for noncompliance. ( See HAS.gov Notice of Enforcement Discretion for Telehealth)
-Governor Lawrence J. Hogan’s Executive Order declared a state of emergency due to COVID-19. As a result there is a temporary expansion of Medicaid telehealth services with the home as an originating site. (See MDH, COVID-19#1 Temporary Expansion of Medicaid Regulations to permit Delivery of Telehealth Services to the Home to Mitigate Possible Spread of Novel Coronavirus (“COVID-19) Behavioral Health Service providers should contact the behavioral health ASO with questions regarding prior authorization requirements for services rendered via telehealth. Consult with the Medicaid telehealth program manual for more information.

– Social workers licensed at the LCSW-C level can practice teletherapy within their scope of practice. LMSW level social workers can practice teletherapy only under the supervision of an LCSW-C social worker.

– Clinical Social Workers licensed in other states can practice social work, including teletherapy no more than 6 months, with an endorsement application pending before the Board. This application will be expedited.

– The supervision of social workers can be face to face in the physical presence of or electronic presence of the individuals involved in a supervisory relationship (must be visual technological communication).

– ASWB has closed its testing centers until April 16, 2020. We are looking into extending the time a candidate is eligible to take the national examination as a result of this closing.

– At this time, the BSWE Continuing Education Regulations remain in effect.  Conferences, workshops, and trainings have either been cancelled, postponed, or under further consideration by the Board Authorized Sponsors.  Sponsors are reviewing their options with some Sponsors already designating new training dates while others have postponed them awaiting further guidance from Governor Hogan.   Please contact the Sponsors directly to discuss their training plans.

– Some Board Authorized Sponsors may be changing their format from live conferences and trainings to live, real-time, interactive webinars to earn Category I CEUs (the CE Certificate should reflect this language).  One option is to offer short trainings – for example, 2 to 4 hours in this format making it easier for licensees to attend.   However, the Continuing Education Regulations for Category I learning activities must be followed.

– The US Department of Homeland Security issued Guidance in The Essential and Critical Infrastructure Workforce, Under Healthcare/Public Health includes Community Mental Health. The Governor’s Response to COVID-19 and Essential Employees includes Behavioral Health Facilities and Professionals.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: clarifies telemedicine permitted across state lines to clients enrolled in a MA school for the 2019-2020 academic year. Guidance Statement: 1) Distance supervision permitted 2) Exam approval authorizations extended to 90 days after testing centers re-open
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

Massachusetts Order Extending the Registration of Certain Licensed Health Professionals
MBRSW permits telehealth and advises licensees that practice with a client outside of the state requires compliance with regulations in the client’s jurisdiction. . The EO clarifies that no board of registration shall prohibit any licensed nurse, social worker, psychologist or medical doctor from providing services using telemedicine across state lines to established patients who during the 2019-2020 academic year have been enrolled in a college or university located in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Board of Registration of Social Workers Guidance Statement
– Supervision: the Board will accept video-conferencing and telephone experience conducted via supervision toward all licensure requirements for all levels of licensure. Social workers must ensure that all work is done in a HIPAA compliant manner.
– Exam approvals: If a social worker’s authorization expired during the time in which Pearson Vue shut down, they may have 90 days after Pearson Vue reopens to re-examine.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement: For licenses that expire between 2/29/2020 and 2/28/2022 1) CE – No limit on independent study hours 2) Supervision – No limit on supervision hours conducted remotely as defined. Application close dates extended an additional six months. Executive Order: 1) Defers CE requirements 2) License applications may be processed without the required finger prints. Temporary license
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Minnesota Board of Social Work Guidance Statement
https://mn.gov/boards/social-work/resources/covid19information.jsp

Board of Social Work Action March 20, 2020
Board took action to approve three, time-limited variances under its authority, based on Minnesota Statutes section 148E.035.

The variances do not compromise public protection but rather support public protection and the capacity for ethical practice during this “peacetime state of emergency”, in alignment with the State’s response to ease the burden on affected citizens based on the pandemic.

Time-Limited Variances Include:
Continuing Education
For all social work licenses that expire between February 29, 2020, and February 28, 2022, there will be no limit on the amount of independent study hours that may be used to complete the continuing education hours required for renewal of the license.
Licensing Supervision
For all social work licenses that expire between February 29, 2020, and February 28, 2022, there will be no limit on the amount of supervision hours that may be conducted via telephone or eye to-eye-electronic media while maintaining visual contact, excluding email, for any supervision hours that are reported upon renewal of the license.
Licensing Application Close Dates
For all applications for LSW, LGSW, LISW, and LICSW licenses, received March 20, 2020 through December 31, 2020, in which not all application requirements are completed by the application close date, the application close date is extended an additional six months from the original application close date.
Resources
The Board encourages licensees to refer to the Minnesota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control for information.  The Board encourages everyone to be safe and take reasonable precautions to ensure personal safety, safety in your agencies and for your clients.

At present the BOSW office remains open as Governor Walz has not closed State Agencies.  There may be delays in response times as inquiries have increased and staffing resources may change due to the COVID-19 situation.  The BOSW strives to be responsive and appreciates your patience during this challenging time.

Minnesota Emergency Executive Order 20-23
Authorizes MN Health-Related Licensing Boards to Modify Requirements During Covid-19

• Defers continuing education requirements until the first reporting cycle following termination of the peacetime emergency declared in Executive Order 20-01.
• Applications for licensure may be processed without submission by the applicant of a full set of fingerprints, provided all other information required as part of the criminal background check process by Minnesota Statutes 2019, section 214.075, or otherwise, is submitted to the board.

Minnesota Statutes
148E.060 Temporary Licenses
III. Subd. 2. Emergency situations and persons currently licensed in another jurisdiction.
(a) The board may issue a temporary license to practice social work to an applicant who is licensed or credentialed to practice social work in another jurisdiction, may or may not have applied for a license under section 148E.055, and has:
(1) applied for a temporary license on a form provided by the board;
(2) submitted a form provided by the board authorizing the board to complete a criminal background check;
(3) submitted evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant is currently licensed or credentialed to practice social work in another jurisdiction;
(4) attested on a form provided by the board that the applicant has completed the requirements for a baccalaureate or graduate degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accrediting body designated by the board, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university; and
(5) not engaged in conduct that was or would be in violation of the standards of practice specified in sections 148E.195 to 148E.240. If the applicant has engaged in conduct that was or would be in violation of the standards of practice, the board may take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270.
(b) A temporary license issued under this subdivision expires after six months.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive order: 1) Requires adherence to Board rules for telehealth 2) Out-of-state licensees may provide services to in-state clients with the completion of a Emergency Provisional Permit 3) Emergency provisions replaced by Board emergency proclamation 4) Suspends CE face-to-face clinical supervision hour requirement 5) Suspends the limit of distance CE to 20 hours 6) Suspends the limit of distance CE for ethics requirements. Temporary license
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.swmft.ms.gov/covid-19-update-and-important-information

MSBESWMFT Proclamation and Emergency Permit

Until further action is taken by the Governor of the State of Mississippi to lift the declared emergency, every Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist hereafter includes Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associates utilizing technology/telehealth in practice under the Board’s Proclamation shall comply with the provisions of Part 1902, Chapter 3, Rule 3.4 (B) and (C) of the Board’s Rules and Regulations.

Further, until action is taken by the Governor to lift the state of emergency, out-of-state Social Workers and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists may utilize telehealth/technology in practice when treating patients in Mississippi without the necessity of securing a license to practice in this State, provided the out-of-state Social Worker or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist holds an unrestricted license to practice in the state in which the Social Worker or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practices and currently is not the subject of an investigation or disciplinary proceeding and so advises the Board in writing.

Further, until further action is taken by the Governor of the State of Mississippi,
the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists does hereby temporarily suspend the following requirements of the Board’s Rules and Regulations:
a. The provisions of the first paragraph, Emergency, of Part 1902, Chapter 2, Rule 2.6 (C).
b. The provisions of Part 1902, Chapter 2, Rule 2.6 (C) (1) (c) and 2(b).
c. The provision of Part 1903, Chapter 2, Rule 2.2 (C) and (E) (3), requiring 500 hours of face-to-face clinical contact hours and no less than 200 relational contact hours.
d. The provision of Part 1902, Chapter 4, Rule 4.1 (D) (7) (e), which limits the distance learning/internet (online) learning continuing education to a maximum of twenty (20) hours.
e. The provisions of Part 1903, Chapter 4, Rule 4.1 (B) and (E) (5) which prohibit or limit distance learning/internet (online) learning courses for fulfillment of ethics continuing education requirements.
Further, until further action is taken by the Governor of the State of Mississippi, the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapy does hereby modify its Rules and Regulations to provide that, as used in said Rules and Regulations, the term face-to-face shall include audiovisual electronic device (i.e. skype, facetime, webex, etc.) provided there is direct, interactive, live exchange between the involved individuals or participants or provided that communication is verbally or visually interactive between the involved individuals or participants.
Further, every Social Worker or Marriage and Family Therapist who is currently licensed in another state or jurisdiction and who wishes to practice in this State shall complete the Emergency Provisional Permit found on the Mississippi State Board of Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists website.

Board webpage for updates related to Covid-19:
https://www.swmft.ms.gov/covid-19-update-and-important-information

Emergency Provisional Permit for out-of-state licensees providing services in MS:
https://www.swmft.ms.gov/sites/default/files/Emergency%20Permit%20SWMFT.pdf

Mississippi Administrative Code
2.6.C. Emergency Provisional Permit for Social Workers. During a lawfully declared local, state or national disaster or emergency, the Board may grant a social worker who holds a license to practice such profession in another state or territory of the United States an emergency temporary social worker permit to practice in Mississippi to the extent authorized by this rule as if the individual were licensed in this state. To qualify for an emergency provisional permit, an individual must meet the requirements described below:
1. The individual seeking an emergency provisional permit must: a. hold a current license in good standing as a social worker in another state or territory of the United States,;
b. possess a license that is equivalent to that of the Mississippi license and have no existing or history of disciplinary action against any license held in any jurisdiction;
c. be sponsored by a social worker with an active license in good standing in Mississippi; and d. adhere to the scope of practice for a similarly licensed individual established by the licensing provisions, practice acts, or other laws, rules or regulations of the State of Mississippi.
2. The individual seeking an emergency provisional permit must:
a. Submit a complete, signed and notarized Application for Emergency Provisional Permit and proof of his or her identify, which must include a copy of a drivers’ license, passport, or other photo identification issued by a governmental entity;
b. Submit an application fee of $50.00, payable by cashiers or money order and made payable to MBOE;
c. Submit verification of licensure for each state or territory in which licensure has been issued; d. Provide the Board with the location where he or she will practice; and e. Provide any other information required by the Board.
3. An emergency provisional permit shall be valid for a period as determined by the Board or its designee not to exceed ninety (90) days. The Board or its designee may renew the provisional permit for an additional ninety (90) days, if the lawfully declared disaster or emergency still exists. Provided however, that an emergency provisional permit shall expire at the time designated by the Board or whenever the lawfully declared disaster or emergency no longer exists, whichever comes first.
4. A holder of an emergency provisional permit (i) may only practice in the location on file at the Boards office; and (ii) must notify the Board in writing prior to beginning employment in another location.
5. An emergency provisional permit may be immediately suspended or revoked upon discovery of any falsification, omission, or withholding of information.
6. An individual wishing to practice as a social worker beyond the expiration of an emergency provisional permit or any extension thereof must apply for and obtain a social worker or marriage and family therapist license in accordance with the laws, rules and regulations governing said license in the State of Mississippi.

Legislative and/or policy action: Board action pending: Waiver of certain licensing rules and statutes requested. Executive Order: Temporary permit if licensing authority takes action
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Missouri Division of Professional Regulation Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://pr.mo.gov/general-covid-19.asp

Waivers of rules and statutes requested for social workers (action pending)
https://pr.mo.gov/common/Waiver-of-Rules-and-Statutes.pdf

• License requirements for reciprocity applicants
• Supervised Licensed Social Work Experience
• Acceptable Supervisors and Supervisor Responsibilities
• Registration of Supervised Social Work Experience
• Application for Licensure as a Social Worker
• Reexamination

Missouri Statutes
Licensing authority has discretion in the event of an emergency but they must take action
337.621. The committee may issue temporary permits to practice under extenuating circumstances as determined by the committee and defined by rule.

Legislative and/or policy action:Licensure exemption for non-state residents with consultant status. Interstate licensure recognition for volunteer professionals
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Montana Department of Labor & Industry Covid-19 Guidance Statements
http://bsd.dli.mt.gov/licensee-covid-19?pk_vid=ff197beaa4be87ff1585938072194e0d
Licensed professionals from out of state can register in Montana to work for a defined period of time.

Montana Code Annotated 2019
37-22-305. Representation to public as licensed clinical social worker — limitations on use of title — limitations on practice.
(1) Upon issuance of a license in accordance with this chapter, a licensee may use the title “licensed clinical social worker”. Except as provided in subsection (2), a person may not represent that the person is a licensed clinical social worker by adding the letters “LSW” or “LCSW” after the person’s name or by any other means unless licensed under this chapter.
(2) Individuals licensed in accordance with this chapter before October 1, 1993, who use the title “licensed social worker” or “LSW” may use the title “licensed clinical social worker” or “LCSW”.
(3) Subsection (1) does not prohibit:
(e) activities and services by a person who is not a resident of this state that are rendered for a period that does not exceed, in the aggregate, 60 days during a calendar year or 45 consecutive calendar days if the person is authorized under the law of the state or country of residence to perform the activities and services. However, the person shall report to the department the nature and extent of the activities and services if they exceed 10 days in a calendar year.

Montana Code Annotated 2019
Interstate Licensure Recognition — Volunteer Professionals
10-3-118. Interstate licensure recognition — volunteer professionals. (1) (a) Subject to subsection (2), whenever a state of emergency or disaster is in effect, a volunteer professional who possesses an active, unrestricted license in another state may practice in Montana to the extent authorized by law as if the person had been licensed in Montana.
(b) A volunteer professional shall adhere to the scope and standards of practice set forth in licensing provisions, practice acts, or other laws or policies of Montana.
(2) (a) Prior to providing services in Montana, a volunteer professional who is licensed for professional services in another state shall register with the appropriate licensing agency in the state of Montana. The licensing agency shall verify the current licensure of the volunteer professional in the other state or states prior to registering the licensee.
(b) Based on available funding, the licensing agency may request and accept funds for the purpose of implementing the provisions of subsection (2)(a).

Legislative and/or policy action: No guidance statements that impact regulatory provisions at this time.
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

New Brunswick Association of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements: https://www.nbasw-atsnb.ca/news-and-events/covid-19-faq/

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: Authorizes agency action to suspend licensure requirements. Emergency Rule: Waives rules for out-of-state healthcare providers to practice in-state but registration is required
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

New Jersey 6 2020
Declares a State of Emergency and a Public Health Emergency. Among other actions, authorizes and empower the executive head of any agency or instrumentality of the State government with authority to promulgate rules to waive, suspend, or modify any existing rule, where the enforcement of which would be detrimental to the public welfare during this emergency, notwithstanding the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act or any law to the contrary for the duration of this Executive Order, subject to my prior approval and in consultation with the State Director of Emergency Management and the Commissioner of DOH. Any such waiver, modification, or suspension shall be promulgated in accordance with N.J.S.A. App. A:9-45.

Attorney General Emergency Rule
Under the regulatory waivers announced today, individuals who hold current healthcare licenses and certifications in good standing in other jurisdictions, and have been practicing within the last five years, will be able to secure New Jersey licenses by completing the following form: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/Pages/Accelerated-Temporary-Licensure.aspx

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: 1) Mandates insurance provider reimbursements 2) Out-of-state licensees may provide services to in-state clients with presentation of license in good standing 3) In-state and out-of-state medical providers providing services to NH children enrolled in a NH school or a school in another state can utilize any telehealth modality
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

New Hampshire Executive Order 2020-04
NHBMHP permits telehealth. The EO clarifies all medical providers can perform telehealth. It requires insurance providers to reimburse telehealth according to payment for in-network providers.

New Hampshire Emergency Order # 15 Pursuant to Executive Order 2020-04
Temporary authorization for out of state medical providers to provide medically necessary services and provide services through telehealth
Pursuant to Section 18 of Executive Order 2020-04, it is hereby ordered, effective immediately, that:
1. To protect the public’s health and increase access to medical care in New Hampshire, any out-of-state medical provider whose profession is licensed within this State shall be allowed to perform any medically necessary service as if the medical provider were licensed to perform such service within the state of New Hampshire subject to the following conditions:
a) The medical provider is licensed and in good standing in another United States jurisdiction. b) The medical services provided within New Hampshire are in-person or through appropriate forms of telehealth, as set forth in Emergency Order #8. c) The medical provider presents to the Office of Professional Licensure & Certification evidence that they are licensed in good standing in another jurisdiction. Such medical providers shall be issued an emergency New Hampshire license at no cost, which shall remain valid during the declared state of emergency. d) Medical providers shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the appropriate state licensing body while providing services within New Hampshire.
2. To further the temporary remote instruction and support of New Hampshire children, in-state and out-of-state medical providers shall be allowed to perform health care services through the use of all modes of telehealth, including video and audio, audio-only, and/or other electronic media to New Hampshire children enrolled within a New Hampshire school or in a school in another state, provided:
a) the services are in furtherance of an Individualized Education Program (“IEP”) administered by the school in which the New Hampshire child is enrolled; and b) the medical provider is a New Hampshire licensee or receives an emergency New Hampshire license in accordance with Section 1, above.
107 North Main Street, State House – Rm 208, Concord, New Hampshire 03301 Telephone (603) 271-2121 • FAX (603) 271-7640 Website: http://www.governor.nh.gov/ • Email: governorsununu@nh.gov TDD Access: Relay NH 1-800-735-2964
3. Good standing pursuant to this Order shall include medical providers who are subject to nondisciplinary conditions, but shall not include medical providers whose licenses have been revoked, cancelled, surrendered, suspended, denied, or subject to disciplinary restrictions.
4. The New Hampshire Office of Professional Li censure and Certification shall, as necessary provide assistance and guidance to out-of-state medical providers in consultation with the Department of Health and Human Services.
5. This Order shall remain in effect until the State of Emergency is terminated, or this Order is rescinded, whichever shall happen first.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statements: 1) CE requirements suspended, renewals processed without proof of CE, but will require make up within three months of Board notice of emergency lifted. 2) Procedures for managing licensee concerns; Board does not have authority to waive statute and rules but will assist to notify appropriate authorities; any action pending. Executive Order: Requires DOH and DHS to credential out-of-state professionals
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department Covid-19 Guidance Statements
http://www.rld.state.nm.us/boards/Social_Work.aspx

Continuing education requirements:

• Renewals will be processed without proof of CE credit needed for renewal.
• Licensees submitting renewals without sufficient CE credits must provide notice to the Board.
• When public health emergency lifted, licensees will be notified of requirement to complete CE within three months.

Procedures during the Covid-19 public health emergency
http://www.rld.state.nm.us/uploads/files/REC_Public%20Notice_BCD%20Process%20and%20Procedures%20During%20the%20COVID-19%20Public%20Health%20Emergency.pdf

The board of social work does not have authority to make exceptions to licensing statutes and rules but will track all questions and concerns and share with the appropriate authority to be addressed.

New Mexico 4 2020
Invokes powers under All Hazard Emergency Management Act, NMSA 1978, Sections 12-10-1 through 12-10-10.
The Department of Health and the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management shall credential out-of-state professionals who can render
aid and necessary services during the pendency of this Order. NMSA 1978, Sections 12-10-10.1 through 1210-13. (2007).

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement allows 100% self-study for CE
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

New York State Board of Social Work Guidance Statement
http://www.op.nysed.gov/COVID-19.html
Continuing education 100% can be completed through self-study

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement: Addresses FAQ for electronic practice
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Newfoundland & Labrador Association of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements: https://nlasw.ca/COVID-19_Social_Work_Practice

Frequently asked questions addressing electronic practice and other questions specific to Covid-19: https://nlasw.ca/sites/default/files/inline-files/COVID-19__Frequently_Asked_Questions_Updated_March_25_1.pdf

Legislative and/or policy action: Authorizes nonresident clinical social workers with a valid license to offer services in North Carolina. Temporary Licensure
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.ncswboard.org/files/WhatsNew2020320blueboxUPDATED20.pdf
-The Board is working diligently to address the concerns of licensees regarding telehealth, clinical supervision, licensure renewals and continuing education mandates; and we appreciate your patience as we navigate through this challenging time.

North Carolina 116 2020
State of emergency declared. Among other actions, temporarily waives North Carolina licensure requirements for health care and behavioral health care personnel who are licensed in another state, territory, or the District of Columbia to provide health care services within the Emergency Area.

North Carolina Social Worker Certification and Licensure Act
§ 90B-8.  Persons from other jurisdictions.
(b) The Board may issue a temporary license to a nonresident clinical social worker who is either certified, registered, or licensed in another jurisdiction whose standards, in the opinion of the Board, at the time of the person’s certification, registration, or licensure were substantially equivalent to or higher than the requirements of this Chapter. Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed as prohibiting a nonresident clinical social worker certified, registered, or licensed in another state from rendering professional clinical social work services in this State for a period of not more than five days in any calendar year. All persons granted a temporary clinical social worker license shall comply with the supervision requirements established by the Board.

Legislative and/or policy action: No guidance statements that impact regulatory provisions at this time
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

Nova Scotia College of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements: http://nscsw.org/nscsw-covid19/

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance statement: Licensure exemption for social workers deployed by the Red Cross
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://cswmft.ohio.gov/Home/COVID-19  

License expiration dates extended:
Per House Bill 197 no license issued by State government can be considered “expired” between March 9, 2020 through the earlier of 90 days following the end of the emergency or 12/1/2020.  CSWMFT Board staff is working closely with its IT partners to make necessary adjustments to the eLicense system. Licensees will be provided additional information and guidance regarding the implications of this legislation after there is time to assess the impact.

Teletherapy:
The board is exploring emergency rule revisions to Rule 4757-5-13 – Electronic Service Delivery.

The OCSWMFT Board’s rules regarding providing teletherapy are established in Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 4757-5-13.  Licensees who are considering offering services via teletherapy should be mindful of the following:

• Independent licensees (LISW, LPCC, IMFT), and dependent licenses (LSW, LPC, MFT) working under supervision, can provide teletherapy provided they have training and experience in teletherapy. Examples of training include completion of continuing education, supervised experience, and peer consultation. Services must be provided to ensure the highest level of confidentiality. Video-conferencing software should be HIPAA compliant. Licensees should carefully consider whether teletherapy is an appropriate means of providing services to individual clients. Licensees must be mindful that ORC 4757 and OAC 4757 apply regardless of how services are provided. Licensees who voluntarily choose to suspend providing services must properly terminate with clients and provide referrals as required in the rules. If a licensee is suspending services in response to a public order to do so, the licensee or their employer is advised to provide information, for example on outgoing voicemail messages or websites, regarding resources in the event a client is in crisis. Insurers establish which services are eligible for reimbursement. Be sure to verify whether you can bill for teletherapy before providing services to a client. The Board has no authority to direct insurers to pay for teletherapy services.
• Agencies and practices may set their own rules regarding teletherapy. The Board can exercise no authority over these employment/business related decisions.
• While the Board staff want to be as helpful as possible, we are not able to provide specific guidance regarding implementing teletherapy. Please consult with peers and supervisors. Additionally, Board staff cannot recommend specific software, nor can the Board recommend specific training programs.

Ohio revised code: 4757.41 Exemptions.
(A) This chapter shall not apply to the following:
(8) Any person employed by the American red cross while engaging in activities relating to services for military families and veterans and disaster relief, as described in the “American National Red Cross Act,” 33 Stat. 599 (1905), 36 U.S.C.A. 1, as amended;

Legislative and/or policy action: No guidance statements that impact regulatory provisions at this time
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

No guidance statements that impact regulatory provisions at this time

Legislative and/or policy action: Temporary Rule Changes: 1) Out-of-state social workers can practice in OR 2) OR social workers with expired license can practice 3) OR social workers must comply with any Executive Order issued by Governor. Executive Order: 1) Authorizes agency action to suspend licensure requirements 2) Any Board action pending
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Oregon Board of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.oregon.gov/BLSW/Pages/index.aspx

Oregon Temporary Rule Changes

• Clinical social workers licensed in another state are permitted to practice clinical social work in OR during emergency.
• Oregon clinical social workers with an expired license can practice clinical social work during a declared emergency.
• Amends rule to require regulated social workers comply with all Executive Orders issued by the Governor in response to a declared disaster or emergency.

Oregon 3 2020
Declaration of an emergency. Among other actions, directs state agencies to develop and implement procedures, including waiving rules or adopting temporary rules within the agency’s authority, consistent with recommendations from the state Public Health Director, designed to prevent or alleviate the public health threat.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statement: 1) Telemedicine permitted by both in-state and out-of-state licensees to clients located in-state 2) Telesupervision permitted 3) Restrictions on distance CE suspended 4) Clinical interns may provide telehealth services
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Pennsylvania Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/SocialWorkersMarriageanFamilyTherapistsandProfessionalCounselors/Pages/default.aspx#.Vxo2g_krKUl
https://www.dos.pa.gov/Documents/2020-03-26-Summary-Psych-Counselors.pdf

Telemedicine

Health care professionals licensed under any of the Department of State’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA) licensing boards can provide services to patients via telemedicine during the coronavirus emergency.

Licensed practitioners in other states to provide services to Pennsylvanians via the use of telemedicine, without obtaining a Pennsylvania license, for the duration of the emergency. Out-of-state practitioners must provide the Board they would normally seek licensure in with the following information prior to practicing telemedicine with Pennsylvanians:
1. The practitioner’s full name, home or work mailing address, telephone number where they can be reached, and an email address.
2. Identify the practitioner’s license type (e.g., “physician and surgeon,” “registered nurse,” etc.), any license number or other identifying information that is unique to that practitioner’s license, and the identify the state or other governmental body that issued the license.

Supervision

• Suspends requirements for the supervisor, or one to whom supervisory responsibilities have been delegated, must meet with the supervisee for a minimum of 2 hours for every 40 hours of supervised clinical experience.
• Clinical supervisees (interns) who are receiving supervision for clinical experience may provide teletherapy services so long as they are receiving supervision from a supervisor who complies with all required regulatory requirements.

Continuing Education
Suspends restrictions on distance-learning for continuing-education requirements

Legislative and/or policy action: No guidance statements that impact regulatory provisions at this time
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et desthérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec Covid-19 Guidance Statements: https://www1.otstcfq.org/covid-19-message-de-la-presidente/

Legislative and/or policy action: 1) Permits telehealth 2) Requires insurance reimbursement for telehealth services
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

State of Rhode Island Department of Health Guidance Statements
https://health.ri.gov/covid/
https://health.ri.gov/licenses/

Rhode Island Executive Order 20-06
http://governor.ri.gov/documents/orders/Executive-Order-20-06.pdf
-Suspends patient location requirement for telemedicine. Patients may receive telemedicine services at any location.
-Suspends any agreements between health care providers and insurance carriers that limit reimbursement of telemedicine services.

Board Manager, Rhode Island Board of Social Work Examiners
-Telehealth provision of treatment and services in state is now permitted
-In order to provide treatment or services to RI residents, a social worker must be licensed in RI.
-No emergency temporary licensure is available for social workers.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: No guidance statements that impact regulatory provisions at this time
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements:
https://www.sasw.ca/site/covid19

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance statement: Out-of-state social workers wishing to practice in SC must provide notice to the Board. Licensure exemption for non-state residents with consultant status
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://llr.sc.gov/sw/
-Social workers licensed outside of South Carolina, pursuant to S.C. Code Section 40-63-290(6): Social workers so licensed in another jurisdiction may, after notice to the Board, practice within the scope of their licenses during or immediately following a declared or recognized emergency for a period not to exceed 60 days.

South Carolina Code of Laws
Section 40-63-290. Persons exempt from licensure requirement.
Nothing in this chapter prevents:
(6) social workers so licensed in another jurisdiction may, after notice to the board, practice within the scope of their licenses during or immediately following a declared or recognized emergency for a period not to exceed sixty days.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance Statements: 1) Social work statute and rules do not address telehealth but best practice standards were provided 2) The Board cannot give legal counsel to licensees or help interprete the impact of statute and rules on individual licensee’s circumstances 3) Out-of-state CSW-PIP application procedures have been expedited
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

South Dakota Board of Social Worker Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://dss.sd.gov/licensingboards/socialwork/social.aspx

• Telehealth is not specifically addressed in the South Dakota Statues and Administrative Rules governing the practice of Social Work.
• The Board is not in the position to provide guidance on individual circumstance; It is suggested licensees consult with their employer’s legal counsel on your individual circumstance as the South Dakota licensing Board is not allowed to provide private legal advice relating to interpretation of statues and rules.
• Out-of-state CSW-PIP applications are subject to full Board approval at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Board. To accommodate the need for timely licensure, all applications will be processed in the Board office and will not be subject to full Board approval but rather approval by one member of the Board thus increasing the speed of licensure.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: 1) Suspends initial application fees 2) Boards may grant licenses to retired professionals without them demonstrating continued competency requirements 3) Suspends CE requirements for licensure renewal 4) Telehealth permitted for all social workers; no longer restricted to clinical
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Tennessee Board of Social Workers Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/sw-board.html

Executive Order No. 20 – 2020

• 7.1 The relevant provisions of Tennessee Code Annotated, Titles 9, 63, and 68, and related rules are herby suspended to the extent necessary to suspend the requirements that applicants for an initial license pursuant to Titles 63 or 68 pay fees, including any state regulatory fee, as part of the application process. This suspension will apply to initial application fees due to the Department of Health between March 12, 2020, and May 18, 2020. Fees already collected will not be refunded. The deadline to pay initial application fees originally due during this period is hereby extended to June 17, 2020; provided, however, that licenses and fees shall return to their original schedules in subsequent years.
• 7.2 The requirements that applicants for an initial license pursuant to Titles 63 or 68 pay fees, including any state regulatory fee, as part of the application process. This suspension will apply to initial application fees due to the Department of Health between March 12, 2020, and May 18, 2020. Fees already collected will not be refunded. The deadline to pay initial application fees originally due during this period is hereby extended to June 17, 2020; provided, however, that licenses and fees shall return to their original schedules in subsequent years.
• 7.3 The provisions of Tennessee Code Annotated, Titles 63 and 68, and related rules and policies are hereby suspended to the extent necessary to give the Commissioner of Health the authority to grant a license, certificate, or registration to a healthcare professional, such as a retired healthcare professional, who has been out of practice for a period of time without requiring that individual to demonstrate continued competency or submit to an interview before a licensing board or other licensing authority, provided that the individual satisfies all other requirements for licensure, certification, or registration.
• 7.4 The provisions of Tennessee Code Annotated, Titles 63 and 68, and related rules and policies are hereby suspended to the extent necessary to suspend the requirement that individuals complete or submit proof of completing continuing education requirements or otherwise demonstrate continuing competence as a condition of reinstating a license, certification, or registration. The Commissioner of Health shall reasonably extend the deadline for these requirements as necessary to respond to the effects of COVID-19.
• 38.1 The provisions of the Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 63-1-155(a)(1), are hereby suspended to the extent necessary to allow telehealth or telemedicine services to be provided by any provider licensed under Title 63, regardless of the providers authority to diagnose. This suspension does not otherwise alter or amend any licensee’s scope of practice or record keeping requirements.

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance statement: 1) Board action pending Governor declared state of emergency 2) Telehealth HIPPA standards relaxed per USDHHS-OCR. Licensure exemption for emergency responders
COVID-19 action policy issued? PENDING

Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/socialwork/
-The Governor has created a process to request temporary waiver of rules and statutes related to the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak.  To this end, the board is in the process of determining which rules and statutes will be most effective from a waiver standpoint.  The board is reviewing rules regarding submission deadlines, exam deadlines, technologically assisted practice, among others.  As these waivers are granted this site will be updated with that information.
-Office of Civil Rights (OCR) in the US Department of Health and Human Services relaxing HIPPA standards governing telehealth

Texas Disaster Act of 1975
Sec. 418.171. Qualifications for Rendering Aid.
A person who holds a license, certificate, or other permit issued by a state or political subdivision of any state evidencing the meeting of qualifications for professional, mechanical, or other skills may render aid involving the skill in this state to meet an emergency or disaster. This state shall give due consideration to the license, certificate, or other permit.

Legislative and/or policy action: Licensure exemption for emergency responders
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing Act
58-1-307. Exemptions from licensure.
(4) Upon the declaration of a national, state, or local emergency, a public health emergency as defined in Section 26-23b-102, or a declaration by the president of the United States or other federal official requesting public health-related activities, the division in collaboration with the board may:
(a) suspend the requirements for permanent or temporary licensure of individuals who are licensed in another state for the duration of the emergency while engaged in the scope of practice for which they are licensed in the other state;

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance statement: 1) CE renewal extension up to 180 days 2) CE distance learning permitted 3) CE exception requests must be made before license expires 3) Temporary license available to 3a) Graduates of approved programs unable to take the licensing exam 3b) Out-of-state licensees 3c) Retired licensees
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://sos.vermont.gov/opr/about-opr/covid-19-response/
https://sos.vermont.gov/opr/about-opr/covid-19-response/out-of-state-licensees-temporary-licensees-telehealth/

Continuing Education

• Continuing education renewal extension of up to 180 days
• Permit alternatives to face to face continuing educational opportunities impacted by COVID-19. -Online courses and training will be allowed.
• Licensees must make a request before their license expiration date

Temporary License available, eligible applicants include:

• Graduates of an approved professional program who are unable to take the required exam due to COVID-19
• Out-of-state social workers providing services to clients in VT
• Retired VT social workers

Legislative and/or policy action: Guidance statement: 1) Telehealth-Permitted by any licensee or supervisee 2) Telehealth-HIPPA standards relaxed per USDHHS-OCR 3) CE requirements extended by one year. Executive Order: Authorizes agency action to suspend licensure requirements
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Virginia Board of Social Work Covid-19 Guidance Statements
http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/social/covid19Info.htm
Telehealth
-Any licensee or Supervisee in Social Work can practice telehealth within Virginia.  You will need to contact another state to determine their rules and whether that state would allow for you to practice into that state without a license from that state, as we cannot offer guidance on another state’s laws and regulations.  Virginia’s laws and regulations are silent as to whether Supervisees in Social Work may provide telehealth services, but it is not prohibited at this point.  Please see the Guidance Document 140-3 at the link provided for more information  https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/social/social_guidelines.htm.
-Office of Civil Rights (OCR) in the US Department of Health and Human Services relaxing HIPPA standards governing telehealth

Continuing Education
-CE requirements for renewal: The Board will grant a one-year extension to all licensees (but all licensees must renew their license by June 30,2020).  As a result, unless you are newly licensed and not required to complete continuing education requirements this year, each LCSW will have until June 30, 2021 to complete the required 30 hours of CE, and each LBSW or LMSW will have until June 30, 2021 to complete the required 15 hours of CE.  Please note that each LCSW is still required to complete the required 30 hours of CE for the June 30, 2022 renewal, and each LBSW and LMSW is still required to complete the 15 hours of CE by the June 30, 2022 renewal, as well.  Also, please note, that this extension does not apply to those individuals who must complete CEs as part of a Board order.
-There are no restrictions on the number of continuing education hours that can be obtained online or in person.

Virginia 6 2020
Declares a state of emergency. Among other actions, authorizes the heads of executive branch agencies, on behalf of their regulatory boards as appropriate, and with the concurrence of their Cabinet Secretary, to waive any state requirement or regulation, and enter into contracts without regard to normal procedures or formalities, and without regard to application or permit fees or royalties. All waivers issued by agencies shall be posted on their websites.

Legislative and/or policy action: License expiration dates up to 9/30/2020 are extended to 9/30/2020 by order of the Secretary of Health. Notice of DOH enrollment and activation of emergency volunteer health practitioners. Uniform Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioner Act.
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Secretary of Health Administrative Modification
License expiration dates of health professionals with licenses up for renewal between 4/1/2020 and 9/30/2020 are extended to 9/30/2020.

Washington Department of Health Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioners Notice
The DOH is supporting enrollment and activation of emergency volunteer health practitioners for the COVID-19 response.
https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/NovelCoronavirusOutbreak2020/HealthcareProviders/EmergencyVolunteerHealthPractitioners

Uniform Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioner Act
https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=70.15&full=true
This chapter applies to volunteer health practitioners registered with a registration system that complies with RCW 70.15.040 and who provide health or veterinary services in this state for a host entity while an emergency declaration is in effect.
Volunteer health practitioner registration systems—Requirements.
(1) To qualify as a volunteer health practitioner registration system, a system must:
(a) Accept applications for the registration of volunteer health practitioners before or during an emergency;
(b) Include information about the licensure and good standing of health practitioners which is accessible by authorized persons;
(c) Be capable of confirming the accuracy of information concerning whether a health practitioner is licensed and in good standing before health services or veterinary services are provided under this chapter; and
(d) Meet one of the following conditions:
(i) Be an emergency system for advance registration of volunteer health care practitioners established by a state and funded through the United States department of health and human services under section 319I of the public health services act, 42 U.S.C. Sec. 247d-7b, as it existed on June 7, 2018, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the department by rule, consistent with the purposes of this section;
(ii) Be a local unit consisting of trained and equipped emergency response, public health, and medical personnel formed pursuant to section 2801 of the public health services act, 42 U.S.C. Sec. 300hh, as it existed on June 7, 2018, or such subsequent date as may be provided by the department by rule, consistent with the purposes of this section;
(iii) Be operated by a:
(A) Disaster relief organization;
(B) Licensing board;
(C) National or regional association of licensing boards or health practitioners;
(D) Health facility that provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient health care services, including a tertiary care, teaching hospital, or acute care facility; or
(E) Governmental entity; or
(iv) Be designated by the department as a registration system for purposes of this chapter.
(2) While an emergency declaration is in effect, the department, a person authorized to act on behalf of the department, or a host entity may confirm whether volunteer health practitioners utilized in this state are registered with a registration system that complies with subsection (1) of this section. Confirmation is limited to obtaining identities of the practitioners from the system and determining whether the system indicates that the practitioners are licensed and in good standing.
(3) Upon request of a person in this state authorized under subsection (2) of this section, or a similarly authorized person in another state, a registration system located in this state shall notify the person of the identities of volunteer health practitioners and whether the practitioners are licensed and in good standing.
(4) A host entity is not required to use the services of a volunteer health practitioner even if the practitioner is registered with a registration system that indicates that the practitioner is licensed and in good standing.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: authorizes agency action to suspend licensure requirements. Guidance statement: 1) Distance CE allowed for Category I 2) Extensions for applicants waiting to test 3)  Waiver of CE provider recertification
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

West Virginia Board of Social Work Covid-19 Guidance Statements
https://www.wvsocialworkboard.org/
-Continuing Education Requirements: The Board is allowing individuals to take twenty hours of online coursework to fulfill all the Category I course requirements. This will not impact Category II Hours. We do not intend this to be a permanent waiver, but it will be in effect until at least September 30, 2020 and the Board will reevalate the status of the waiver prior to that time.
-Extension of Exam Approvals: The Board will issue an additional six month permit to those affected to prevent a lapse in permission to practice.  Our Board will continue to establish eligibility and authorize individuals for the exam but candidates should check the ASWB’s link for the most current information on registration and testing.
-General considerations for the provision of services via telehealth are provided.

West Virginia Proclamation by the Governor
-Suspends rules, if strict compliance therewith would in any way prevent, hinder or delay necessary action in coping with the emergency.

Legislative and/or policy action: Executive Order: authorizes agency action to suspend licensure requirements; any action pending
COVID-19 action policy issued? YES

Wisconsin 9 2020 

Public health emergency declared. Among other actions, suspends the provisions of any administrative rule, if the Secretary of

the Department of Health Services determines that compliance with that rule would prevent, hinder, or delay necessary actions to respond to the emergency and increase the health threat.

Legislative and/or policy action: Licensure exemption for non-state residents with consultant status
COVID-19 action policy issued? NO

Wyoming Mental Health Professions Act
33 38 103. Exemptions.
(a) Nothing in this act shall be construed to apply to the activities and services of:
(iv) Nonresidents who render services in this state for not more than thirty (30) days during any calendar year, provided that the persons are duly authorized to perform the activities and services under the laws of the state or county of the person’s residency;