HB1109

To Authorize The State Board Of Examiners Of Alcoholism And Drug Abuse Counselors To Require Criminal Background Checks For Applicants For Licensure.

Introduced

Last Action (Jan. 11, 2023): WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR

AI-Generated Summary

House Bill 1109 authorizes the State Board of Examiners of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors to require criminal background checks for both first-time licensure applicants and those seeking license renewal. The bill mandates that these checks be conducted by the Division of Arkansas State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, incorporating fingerprint-based background screening. Applicants are responsible for the associated fees, although the Board may issue a six-month nonrenewable provisional letter of eligibility while awaiting results. The legislation establishes strict confidentiality protocols, limiting access to the background information to the applicant or the person whose license is subject to revocation. Furthermore, it incorporates specific criminal offense prohibitions outlined in Arkansas Code § 17-3-102 into the board's licensing criteria for counselors and technicians. The board is directed to adopt the necessary rules to implement these new requirements.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries are the clients receiving substance abuse counseling services, as the background check requirement aims to ensure that individuals providing care do not have criminal histories involving disqualifying offenses, thereby increasing professional oversight and public safety. Additionally, the State Board of Examiners of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors benefits from having standardized regulatory tools to verify the credentials and backgrounds of its licensees.

Who Might Suffer?

The individuals most negatively impacted are prospective or existing counselors and technicians with criminal histories that align with the disqualifying offenses listed in § 17-3-102, as they may be denied licensure or renewal. Additionally, all applicants for licensure and renewal will face a financial burden, as the bill explicitly makes the applicant responsible for paying the fees associated with the state and national criminal background check process.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us