H4650
An Act relative to social work uplifting practices and exam removal
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Bill overview
This bill, currently being considered in the Massachusetts legislature, aims to change how social work exams are administered and to promote ‘uplifting practices’ within the profession. It seeks to remove the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) exam as a requirement for licensure in Massachusetts and establish a new, state-administered exam. The bill also intends to support social workers through professional development and recognition of their work.
Key provisions
- Eliminate the NASW exam as a requirement for social work licensure in Massachusetts.
- Create a new, state-administered exam for social work licensure.
- Support professional development opportunities for social workers.
- Recognize and value the contributions of social workers.
- Establish a task force to develop the new exam standards and procedures.
Who is affected
- Social workers in Massachusetts
- The Massachusetts Board of Social Work
- Students pursuing social work licensure
Notable changes
- Shifts the responsibility for social work licensure exams from NASW to the state of Massachusetts.
- Allows for greater flexibility in the exam content and format.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on Higher Education
Cosponsors
Adrian C. Madaro
Christine P. Barber
Christopher J. Worrell
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Bill H.4650 194th (Current)
An Act relative to social work uplifting practices and exam removal
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Sponsor: Joint Committee on Higher Education Status: Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means
Tabs
Bill History Cosponsors Committee Vote Committee Summary
Bill History
Displaying 3 actions for Bill H.4650
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 10/27/2025 | House | Reported from the committee on Higher Education |
| 10/27/2025 | House | New draft of H1423 |
| 10/27/2025 | House | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means |
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