HB 5594

Abstract

Amends the Professional Counselor and Clinical Professional Counselor Licensing Act. Renames the Act the Professional Counselor and Clinical Professional Counselor Licensing and Practice Act (and makes conforming changes in other Acts). Creates new provisions concerning licensed professional counselors practice requirements and confidential information. Also makes changes in provisions concerning the declaration of public policy; definitions; exemptions; restrictions and limitations; unlicensed practice; violations; civil penalties; powers and duties of the Department; the Professional Counselor and Examining and Disciplinary Board; qualifications for a license; licenses; renewals; restorations; persons in military service; inactive status; fees; checks or orders dishonored; privileged communications and exceptions; grounds for discipline; refusal, revocation, or suspension of licensure; violations; injunctions; cease and desist orders; investigations; notice and hearings; record of proceedings; transcripts; subpoenas; oaths; compelling testimony; findings and recommendations; the Board; rehearings; order for rehearings; appointment of a hearing officer; order or certified copy; prima facie proof; restoration of suspended or revoked licenses; summary suspension of license; certification of record; costs; violations; and the Administrative Procedure Act and applications. Amends the Regulatory Sunset Act to extend the Professional Counselor and Clinical Professional Counselor Licensing Act from January 1, 2013 to January 1, 2023. Effective immediately.