H4696
An Act establishing a board of registration of licensed mental health counselors
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- Passed House
- Passed Senate
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Bill overview
This bill proposes to create a board of registration for licensed mental health counselors in Massachusetts. Currently, there isn't a formal regulatory body overseeing these professionals, and this legislation aims to establish standards for licensure, training, and ethical conduct. The board would be responsible for ensuring the quality of mental health services provided in the state. This would help protect the public and ensure accountability within the mental health counseling profession.
Key provisions
- Establish a Board of Registration of Licensed Mental Health Counselors.
- Define the scope of practice for licensed mental health counselors.
- Set standards for initial and continuing education.
- Develop a process for licensure and renewal of licenses.
- Establish disciplinary procedures for violations of regulations.
- Outline responsibilities for maintaining public trust and safety.
- Define the powers and duties of the board.
Who is affected
- Mental health counselors
- Individuals seeking mental health services
- The mental health profession
- The public
- The Massachusetts Executive Branch (specifically, the Department of Public Health)
Notable changes
- Currently, mental health counselors in Massachusetts are not subject to a formal registration or licensing process.
- This bill would create a new regulatory framework for the profession.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Michelle L. Badger
Cosponsor
Michelle L. Badger
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.4696 194th (Current)
An Act establishing a board of registration of licensed mental health counselors
By Representative Badger of Plymouth, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Michelle L. Badger for legislation to establish to a board of registration of licensed mental health counselors. Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Michelle L. Badger
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 7 actions for Bill H.4696
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 5/22/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on House Rules |
| 10/30/2025 | House | Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery |
| 11/3/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 11/6/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 11/10/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2 |
| 2/9/2026 | House | Reporting date extended to Wednesday, March 18, 2026 |
| House | Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order | |
| 4/23/2026 | House | Accompanied a study order, see H5338 (under House Rule 27) |
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