Journal of the House - 40th Day - Thursday, March 29, 2007

A quorum was present.

Ozment was excused.

Lenczewski was excused until 11:05 a.m.

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The Chief Clerk proceeded to read the Journals of the preceding days. Peterson, N., moved that further reading of the Journals be suspended and that the Journals be approved as corrected by the Chief Clerk. The motion prevailed.

REPORTS OF CHIEF CLERK

S. F. No. 846 and H. F. No. 958, which had been referred to the Chief Clerk for comparison, were examined and found to be identical with certain exceptions.

SUSPENSION OF RULES

Solberg moved that the rules be so far suspended that S. F. No. 846 be substituted for H. F. No. 958 and that the House File be indefinitely postponed. The motion prevailed.

PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS

The following communications were received:

STATE OF MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

SAINT PAUL 55155

March 27, 2007

The Honorable Margaret Anderson Kelliher

Speaker of the House of Representatives

The State of Minnesota

Dear Speaker Kelliher:

Please be advised that I have received, approved, signed, and deposited in the Office of the Secretary of State the following House File:

H. F. No. 1008, relating to public safety; changing certain background check requirements.

Sincerely,

Tim Pawlenty

Governor

Journal of the House - 40th Day - Thursday, March 29, 2007 - Top of Page 2235

STATE OF MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE

ST. PAUL 55155

The Honorable Margaret Anderson Kelliher

Speaker of the House of Representatives

The Honorable James P. Metzen

President of the Senate

I have the honor to inform you that the following enrolled Acts of the 2007 Session of the State Legislature have been received from the Office of the Governor and are deposited in the Office of the Secretary of State for preservation, pursuant to the State Constitution, Article IV, Section 23:

S. F.

No.

H. F.

No.

Session Laws

Chapter No.

Time and

Date Approved

2007

Date Filed

2007

1008 8 4:17 p.m. March 27 March 28

1168 9 4:20 p.m. March 27 March 28

1294 10 4:25 p.m. March 27 March 28

Sincerely,

Mark Ritchie

Secretary of State

REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES AND DIVISIONS

Atkins from the Committee on Commerce and Labor to which was referred:

H. F. No. 1892, A bill for an act relating to insurance; regulating continuation coverage for life insurance; authorizing the use of certain mortality tables to calculate reserves for certain life policies; regulating life insurance policy illustrations and interest rate disclosures; requiring auto insurers to notify the commissioner of decision to withdraw from the market; regulating certain notices of cancellation and certain policy renewals; modifying a definition; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 60A.351; 61A.092, subdivision 6; 61A.25, subdivision 4; 65B.17, by adding a subdivision; 72A.52, subdivision 1; 72B.02, subdivision 7; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 61A; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 45.025, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10; Minnesota Rules, parts 2790.1750; 2790.1751.

Reported the same back with the following amendments:

Page 2, after line 2, insert:

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"Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 61A.072, is amended to read:

61A.072 ~~POLICIES WITH~~ ACCELERATED BENEFITS.

Subdivision 1. ~~Disclosure.~~ A life insurance contract or supplemental contract that contains a provision to permit the accelerated payment of benefits as authorized under section 60A.06, subdivision 1, clause (4), must contain the following disclosure: "This is a life insurance policy which pays accelerated death benefits at your option under conditions specified in the policy. This policy is not a long-term care policy meeting the requirements of sections 62A.46 to 62A.56 or chapter 62S."

~~Subd. 4.~~ ~~Long-term care expenses.~~ ~~If the right to receive accelerated benefits is contingent upon the insured receiving long-term care services, the contract or supplemental contract shall include the following provisions:~~

(1) the minimum accelerated benefit shall be $1,200 per month if the insured is receiving nursing facility services and $750 per month if the insured is receiving home services with a minimum lifetime benefit limit of $50,000;

(2) coverage is effective immediately and benefits shall commence with the receipt of services as defined in section 62A.46, subdivision 3, 4, or 5, or 62S.01, subdivision 25, but may include a waiting period of not more than 90 days, provided that no more than one waiting period may be required per benefit period as defined in section 62A.46, subdivision 11;

~~(3) premium shall be waived during any period in which benefits are being paid to the insured during confinement to a nursing home facility;~~

~~(4) coverage may not be canceled or renewal refused except on the grounds of nonpayment of premium;~~

(5) coverage must include preexisting conditions during the first six months of coverage if the insured was not diagnosed or treated for the particular condition during the 90 days immediately preceding the effective date of coverage;

~~(6) coverage must include mental or nervous disorders which have a demonstrable organic cause such as Alzheimer's and related dementias;~~

~~(7) no prior hospitalization requirement shall be allowed unless a similar requirement is allowed by section 62A.48, subdivision 1, or 62S.06; and~~

~~(8) the contract shall include a cancellation provision that meets the requirements of section 62A.50, subdivision 2, or 62S.07.~~

~~Subd. 5.~~ ~~Exclusion.~~ Subdivision 4 does not apply to contracts or supplemental contracts granting the right to receive accelerated benefits if (1) one of the options for payment provides for lump-sum payment; (2) no conditions or restrictions are imposed on the use of the funds by the insured; and (3) the offeree or insured is given written notice at the time the contract or supplemental contract is offered or sold that (i) Minnesota law sets minimum requirements for life insurance contracts where the right to receive accelerated benefits is contingent upon the insured receiving long-term care services, and (ii) the contract or supplemental contract being offered or sold does not meet those minimum requirements.

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~~Subd. 6.~~ ~~Accelerated benefits~~ Definitions. (a) "Accelerated benefits" covered under this section are benefits payable under the life insurance contract:

(1) to a policyholder or certificate holder, during the lifetime of the insured, in the anticipation of death or upon the occurrence of a specified life-threatening or catastrophic condition as defined by the policy or rider;

(2) that reduce the death benefit otherwise payable under the life insurance contract; and

(3) that are payable upon the occurrence of a single qualifying event that results in the payment of a benefit amount fixed at the time of acceleration.

(b) "Qualifying event" means one or more of the following:

(1) a medical condition that would result in a drastically limited life span as specified in the contract;

(2) a medical condition that has required or requires extraordinary medical intervention, such as, but not limited to, major organ transplant or continuous artificial life support without which the insured would die;

(3) a condition that usually requires continuous confinement in an eligible institution as defined in the contract if the insured is expected to remain there for the rest of the insured's life;

(4) a ~~long-term care illness or physical condition that results in cognitive impairment or the inability to perform the activities of daily life or the substantial and material duties of any occupation~~ medical condition that would, in the absence of extensive or extraordinary medical treatment, result in a drastically limited life span. Such conditions may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following:

(i) coronary artery disease resulting in an acute infarction or requiring surgery;

(ii) permanent neurological deficit resulting from cerebral vascular accident;

(iii) end stage renal failure;

(iv) Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome; or

(v) other medical conditions that the commissioner shall approve for any particular filing; or

(5) other qualifying events that the commissioner approves for a particular filing.

Subd. 2. Type of product. Accelerated benefit riders and life insurance policies with accelerated benefit provisions are primarily mortality risks rather than morbidity risks. They are life insurance benefits subject to this chapter.

Subd. 3. Assignee or beneficiary. Before paying the accelerated benefit, the insurer is required to obtain from an assignee or irrevocable beneficiary a signed acknowledgment of concurrence for payout. If the insurer making the accelerated benefit is itself the assignee under the policy, no acknowledgment is required.

Subd. 4. Criteria for payment. (a) Contract payment options shall include the option to take the benefit as a lump sum. The benefit shall not be made available as an annuity contingent upon the life of the insured.

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(b) No restrictions are permitted on the use of the proceeds.

(c) If any death benefit remains after payment of an accelerated benefit, the accidental death benefit provision, if any, in the policy or rider shall not be affected by the payment of the accelerated benefit.

Subd. 5. Disclosures. (a) The terminology "accelerated benefit" shall be included in the descriptive title. Products regulated under this section shall not be described or marketed as long-term care insurance or as providing long-term care benefits.

(b) A disclosure statement is required at the time of application for the policy or rider and at the time the accelerated benefit payment request is submitted that receipt of these accelerated benefits may be taxable and that assistance should be sought from a personal tax advisor. The disclosure statement shall be prominently displayed on the first page of the policy or rider and any other related documents.

(c)(1) A written disclosure including, but not necessarily limited to, a brief description of the accelerated benefit and definitions of the conditions or occurrences triggering payment of the benefits shall be given to the applicant. The description shall include an explanation of any effect of the payment of a benefit on the policy's cash value, accumulation account, death benefit, premium, policy loans, and policy liens.

(i) In the case of agent solicited insurance, the agent shall provide the disclosure form to the applicant prior to or concurrently with the application. Acknowledgment of the disclosure shall be signed by the applicant and writing agent.

(ii) In the case of a solicitation by direct response methods, the insurer shall provide the disclosure form to the applicant at the time the policy is delivered, with a notice that a full premium refund shall be received if the policy is returned to the company within the free look period.

(iii) In the case of group insurance policies, the disclosure form shall be contained as part of the certificate of coverage or any related document furnished by the insurer for the certificate holder.

(2) If there is a premium or cost of insurance charge, the insurer shall give the applicant a generic illustration numerically demonstrating any effect of the payment of a benefit on the policy's cash value, accumulation account, death benefit, premium, policy loans, and policy liens.

(i) In the case of agent-solicited insurance, the agent shall provide the illustration to the applicant prior to or concurrently with the application.

(ii) In the case of a solicitation by direct response methods, the insurer shall provide the illustration to the applicant at the time the policy is delivered.

(3) Disclosure of premium charge.

(i) An insurer with financing options other than as described in subdivision 9, paragraph (a), clauses (2) and (3), shall disclose to the policy owner any premium or cost of insurance charge for the accelerated benefit. The insurer shall make a reasonable effort to assure that the certificate holder is aware of any additional premium or cost of insurance charge if the certificate holder is required to pay a charge.

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(ii) An insurer shall furnish an actuarial demonstration to the state insurance department when filing the product disclosing the method of arriving at its cost for the accelerated benefit.

(4) The insurer shall disclose to the policy owner any administrative expense charge. The insurer shall make a reasonable effort to assure that the certificate holder is aware of any administrative expense charge if the certificate holder is required to pay the charge.

(d) When a policy owner or certificate holder requests an acceleration, the insurer shall send a statement to the policy owner or certificate holder and irrevocable beneficiary showing any effect that the payment of the accelerated benefit will have on the policy's cash value, accumulation account, death benefit, premium, policy loans, and policy liens. The statement shall disclose that receipt of accelerated benefit payments may adversely affect the recipient's eligibility for Medicaid or other government benefits or entitlements. In addition, receipt of an accelerated benefit payment may be taxable and assistance should be sought from a personal tax advisor. When a previous disclosure statement becomes invalid as a result of an acceleration of the death benefit, the insurer shall send a revised disclosure statement to the policy owner or certificate holder and irrevocable beneficiary. When the insurer agrees to accelerate death benefits, the insurer shall issue an amended schedule page to the policy holder or notify the certificate holder under a group policy to reflect any new reduced in-force face amount of the contract.

Subd. 6. Effective date of accelerated benefits. The accelerated benefit provision shall be effective for accidents on the effective date of the policy or rider. The accelerated benefit provision shall be effective for illness no more than 30 days following the effective date of the policy or rider.

Subd. 7. Waiver of premiums. The insurer may offer a waiver of premium for the accelerated benefit provision in the absence of a regular waiver of premium provision being in effect. At the time the benefit is claimed, the insurer shall explain any continuing premium requirement to keep the policy in force.

Subd. 8. Discrimination. An insurer shall not unfairly discriminate among insureds with differing qualifying events covered under the policy or among insureds with similar qualifying events covered under the policy. An insurer shall not apply further conditions on the payment of the accelerated benefits other than those conditions specified in the policy or rider.

Subd. 9. Actuarial standards. (a) The issuer may use the following financing options:

(1) requiring a premium charge or cost of insurance charge for the accelerated benefit. This charge shall be based on sound actuarial principles. In the case of group insurance, the additional cost may also be reflected in the experience rating.

(2) paying a present value of the face amount. The calculation shall be based on any applicable actuarial discount appropriate to the policy design. The interest rate or interest rate methodology used in the calculation shall be based on sound actuarial principles and disclosed in the contract or actuarial memorandum. The maximum interest rate used shall be no greater than the greater of:

(i) current yield on 90-day treasury bills; or

(ii) current maximum statutory adjustable policy loan interest rate.

(3) The insurer may accrue an interest charge on the amount of the accelerated benefits. The interest rate or interest rate methodology used in the calculation shall be based on sound actuarial principles and disclosed in the contract or actuarial memorandum. The maximum interest rate shall be no greater than the greater of:

Journal of the House - 40th Day - Thursday, March 29, 2007 - Top of Page 2240

(i) current yield on 90-day treasury bills; or

(ii) current maximum statutory adjustable policy loan interest rate.

The interest rate accrued on the portion of the lien that is equal in amount to the cash value of the contract at the time of the benefit acceleration shall be no more than the policy loan interest rate stated in the contract.

(b)(1) Except as provided in clause (2), when an accelerated benefit is payable, there shall be no more than a pro rata reduction in the cash value based on the percentage of death benefits accelerated to produce the accelerated benefit payment.

(2) Alternatively, the payment of accelerated benefits, any administrative expense charges, any future premiums, and any accrued interest can be considered a lien against the death benefit of the policy or rider and the access to the cash value may be restricted to any excess of the cash value over the sum of any other outstanding loans and the lien. Future access to additional policy loans could also be limited to any excess of the cash value over the sum of the lien and any other outstanding policy loans.

(c) When payment of an accelerated benefit results in a pro rata reduction in the cash value, the payment may not be applied toward repaying an amount greater than a pro rata portion of any outstanding policy loans.

Subd. 10. Actuarial disclosure and reserves. (a) A qualified actuary should describe the accelerated benefits, the risks, the expected costs, and the calculation of statutory reserved in an actuarial memorandum accompanying each state filing. The insurer shall maintain in its files descriptions of the bases and procedures used to calculate benefits payable under these provisions. These descriptions shall be made available for examination by the commissioner upon request.

(b)(1) When benefits are provided through the acceleration of benefits under group or individual life policies or riders to such policies, policy reserves shall be determined in accordance with the Standard Valuation Law. All valuation assumptions used in constructing the reserves shall be determined as appropriate for statutory valuation purposes by a member in good standing of the American Academy of Actuaries. Mortality tables and interest currently recognized for life insurance reserves by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) may be used as well as appropriate assumptions for the other provisions incorporated in the policy form. The actuary shall follow both actuarial standards and certification for good and sufficient reserves. Reserves in the aggregate should be sufficient to cover:

(i) policies upon which no claim has yet arisen; and

(ii) policies upon which an accelerated claim has arisen.

(2) For policies and certificates that provide actuarially equivalent benefits, no additional reserves need to be established.

(3) Policy liens and policy loans, including accrued interest, represent assets of the company for statutory reporting purposes. For a policy on which the policy lien exceeds the policy's statutory reserve liability, the excess shall be held as a nonadmitted asset.

Subd. 11. Filing requirement. The filing and prior approval of forms containing an accelerated benefit is required."

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Page 4, line 18, delete "(b)" and insert "(c)"

Page 5, line 29, delete "qualified" and insert "appointed"

Page 6, line 7, delete "qualified" and insert "appointed"

Page 19, after line 12, insert:

"Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 62E.12, is amended to read:

62E.12 MINIMUM BENEFITS OF COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN.

(a) The association through its comprehensive health insurance plan shall offer policies which provide the benefits of a number one qualified plan and a number two qualified plan, except that the maximum lifetime benefit on these plans shall be ~~$2,800,000~~ $5,000,000; and an extended basic Medicare supplement plan and a basic Medicare supplement plan as described in sections 62A.3099 to 62A.44. The association may also offer a plan that is identical to a number one and number two qualified plan except that it has a $2,000 annual deductible and a ~~$2,800,000~~ $5,000,000 maximum lifetime benefit. The association, subject to the approval of the commissioner, may also offer plans that are identical to the number one or number two qualified plan, except that they have annual deductibles of $5,000 and $10,000, respectively; have limitations on total annual out-of-pocket expenses equal to those annual deductibles and therefore cover 100 percent of the allowable cost of covered services in excess of those annual deductibles; and have a ~~$2,800,000~~ $5,000,000 maximum lifetime benefit. The association, subject to approval of the commissioner, may also offer plans that meet all other requirements of state law except those that are inconsistent with high deductible health plans as defined in sections 220 and 223 of the Internal Revenue Code and supporting regulations. As of January 1, 2006, the association shall no longer be required to offer an extended basic Medicare supplement plan.

(b) The requirement that a policy issued by the association must be a qualified plan is satisfied if the association contracts with a preferred provider network and the level of benefits for services provided within the network satisfies the requirements of a qualified plan. If the association uses a preferred provider network, payments to nonparticipating providers must meet the minimum requirements of section 72A.20, subdivision 15.

(c) The association shall offer health maintenance organization contracts in those areas of the state where a health maintenance organization has agreed to make the coverage available and has been selected as a writing carrier.

(d) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 62E.06 and unless those charges are billed by a provider that is part of the association's preferred provider network, the state plan shall exclude coverage of services of a private duty nurse other than on an inpatient basis and any charges for treatment in a hospital located outside of the state of Minnesota in which the covered person is receiving treatment for a mental or nervous disorder, unless similar treatment for the mental or nervous disorder is medically necessary, unavailable in Minnesota and provided upon referral by a licensed Minnesota medical practitioner.

Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 62S.23, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Inflation protection feature. (a) No insurer may offer a long-term care insurance policy unless the insurer also offers to the policyholder, in addition to any other inflation protection, the option to purchase a policy that provides for benefit levels to increase with benefit maximums or reasonable durations which are

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meaningful to account for reasonably anticipated increases in the costs of long-term care services covered by the policy. In addition to other options that may be offered, insurers must offer to each policyholder, at the time of purchase, the option to purchase a policy with an inflation protection feature no less favorable than one of the following:

(1) increases benefit levels annually in a manner so that the increases are compounded annually at a rate not less than five percent;

(2) guarantees the insured individual the right to periodically increase benefit levels without providing evidence of insurability or health status so long as the option for the previous period has not been declined. The amount of the additional benefit shall be no less than the difference between the existing policy benefit and that benefit compounded annually at a rate of at least five percent for the period beginning with the purchase of the existing benefit and extending until the year in which the offer is made; or

(3) covers a specified percentage of actual or reasonable charges and does not include a maximum specified indemnity amount or limit.

(b) A long-term care partnership policy must provide the inflation protection described in this subdivision. If the policy is sold to an individual who:

(1) has not attained age 61 as of the date of purchase, the policy must provide compound annual inflation protection;

(2) has attained age 61, but has not attained age 76 as of such date, the policy must provide some level of inflation protection; and

(3) has attained the age of 76 as of such date, the policy may, but is not required to, provide some level of inflation protection."

Page 20, after line 21, insert:

"Sec. 22. EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICATION.

Sections 5 to 14 and section 18 are effective January 1, 2008, and apply to policies issued on or after that date."

Renumber the sections in sequence and correct internal references

Amend the title as follows:

Page 1, line 2, after the second semicolon, insert "regulating life policies with accelerated benefits;"

Page 1, line 7, after the first semicolon, insert "providing for inflation protection in long-term care partnership policies; providing minimum comprehensive health insurance plan benefits;"

Correct the title numbers accordingly

With the recommendation that when so amended the bill pass.

The report was adopted.

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Rukavina from the Higher Education and Work Force Development Policy and Finance Division to which was referred:

H. F. No. 2310, A bill for an act relating to unemployment insurance; modifying Social Security offset provisions; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 268.085, subdivision 4.

Reported the same back with the following amendments:

Delete everything after the enacting clause and insert:

"Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 268.085, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. Social Security benefits. (a) Any applicant aged 62 or over ~~shall be~~ is required to state when filing an application for unemployment benefits and when filing continued ~~biweekly~~ requests for unemployment benefits ~~whether~~ if the applicant is receiving, has filed for, or intends to file for, primary Social Security old age benefits for any week during the benefit year.

If the effective date of the applicant's Social Security claim for old age benefits is, or will be, after the start of the base period, there ~~shall~~ must be deducted from an applicant's weekly unemployment benefit amount 50 percent of the weekly equivalent of the primary Social Security old age benefit the applicant has received, has filed for, or intends to file for, with respect to that week.

If the effective date of the applicant's Social Security claim for old age benefits is before the start of the base period, there is no deduction from the applicant's weekly unemployment benefit amount.

(b) An applicant who is receiving, has received, or has filed for primary Social Security disability benefits for any week during the benefit year ~~shall~~ must be determined unable to work and unavailable for suitable employment for that week, unless:

(1) the Social Security Administration approved the collecting of primary Social Security disability benefits each month the applicant was employed during the base period; or

(2) the applicant provides a statement from an appropriate health care professional who is aware of the applicant's Social Security disability claim and the basis for that claim, certifying that the applicant is able to work and available for suitable employment.

If an applicant meets the requirements of clause (1) or there is no deduction from the applicant's weekly benefit amount for any Social Security disability benefits. If only clause (2) applies, then there ~~shall~~ must be deducted from the applicant's weekly unemployment benefit amount 50 percent of the weekly equivalent of the primary Social Security disability benefits the applicant is receiving, has received, or has filed for, with respect to that week; provided, however, that if the Social Security Administration determines that an individual is not entitled to receive primary Social Security disability benefits for any week the applicant has applied for those benefits, the 50 percent deduction ~~shall~~ does not apply to that week.

(c) Information from the Social Security Administration ~~shall be~~ is considered conclusive, absent specific evidence showing that the information was erroneous.

(d) If the computation of the reduced unemployment benefits is not a whole dollar, it ~~shall be~~ is rounded down to the next lower whole dollar.

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(e) This subdivision does not apply to Social Security survivor benefits.

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective for unemployment insurance benefit accounts filed effective on or after July 1, 2007."

With the recommendation that when so amended the bill pass.

The report was adopted.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 2.03 and in accordance with House Concurrent Resolution No. 1, H. F. No. 2310 was re‑referred to the Committee on Rules and Legislative Administration.

Thissen from the Committee on Health and Human Services to which was referred:

S. F. No. 26, A bill for an act relating to health occupations; extending the expiration dates for the Board of Medical Practices' advisory councils; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 147A.27, subdivision 2; 147B.05, subdivision 2; 147C.35, subdivision 2; 147D.25, subdivision 2; 214.32, subdivision 1.

Reported the same back with the following amendments:

Delete everything after the enacting clause and insert:

"Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 144.121, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. Examination for individual operating x-ray equipment. After January 1, 1997, an individual in a facility with x-ray equipment for use on humans that is registered under subdivision 1 may not operate, nor may the facility allow the individual to operate, x-ray equipment unless the individual has passed an examination approved by the commissioner of health, or an examination determined to the satisfaction of the commissioner of health to be an equivalent national, state, or regional examination, that demonstrates the individual's knowledge of basic radiation safety, proper use of x-ray equipment, darkroom and film processing, and quality assurance procedures. The commissioner shall establish by rule criteria for the approval of examinations required for an individual operating an x-ray machine in Minnesota. (a) After January 1, 2008, an individual in a facility with x-ray equipment for use on humans that is registered under subdivision 1 may not operate, nor may the facility allow the individual to operate, x-ray equipment unless the individual has passed a national examination determined to the satisfaction of the commissioner of health. The commissioner shall establish by rule criteria for the approval of examinations based on national standards, such as the examination in radiography from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, the examination for limited scope of practice in radiography from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists for limited x-ray machine operators, and the American Registry of Chiropractic Radiography Technologists for limited radiography in spines and extremities; or equivalent examinations approved by other states. Equivalent examinations are to be determined by the commissioner, and must be consistent with the standards for educational and psychological testing as recommended by the American Education Research Association, the American Psychological Association, the National Council on Measurement in Education, or the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. Any costs incurred in determining the extent to which examinations meet the examining standards of this subdivision shall be paid by the individual or organization proposing the use of such examination. The commissioner shall issue a certificate to examinees who pass an approved examination.

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(b) Individuals who have met current regulations to operate x-ray equipment prior to January 1, 2008, in a facility with x-ray equipment for use on humans that is registered under subdivision 1 shall not be required to take a national examination as required in paragraph (a).

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective January 1, 2008.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 144.121, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5a. Limited x-ray machine operator examination. The examination for limited x-ray machine operators shall include, but not be limited to:

(1) radiation protection, equipment maintenance and operation, image production and evaluation, patient care and management; and

(2) at least one of the following regions of the human anatomy: chest, extremities, skull and sinus, spine, or ankle and foot. These examinations must include the anatomy of, and position for, the specific regions.

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective January 1, 2008.

Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 144.121, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5b. Limited x-ray machine operator practice. A limited x-ray operator may practice medical radiography on limited regions of the human anatomy for which they have successfully passed an examination outlined in subdivision 5a. The operator may practice using only routine radiographic procedures, for the interpretation by and under the direction of a licensed practitioner, excluding computed tomography, the use of contrast media, and the use of fluoroscopic or mammographic equipment.

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective January 1, 2008.

Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 144.121, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5c. Exemptions. X-ray machine operators who have met current regulations adopted by the commissioner prior to January 1, 2008, are exempt from the requirements of subdivisions 5 to 5e, but must meet the continuing education requirements provided in subdivision 5f. Subdivisions 5 to 5f do not apply to dental hygienists, dental assistants, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and individuals that are licensed in the state of Minnesota to practice medicine, osteopathy, chiropractics, podiatry, and dentistry.

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective January 1, 2008.

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 144.121, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5d. Procedures. The commissioner shall adopt by rule procedures to be followed for examinations.

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective January 1, 2008.

Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 144.121, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5e. Variance of scope and practice. The commissioner may grant a variance according to Minnesota Rules, parts 4717.7000 to 4717.7050, to a facility for the scope of practice of an x-ray operator in cases where the delivery of health care would otherwise be compromised if a variance were not granted. The request for a variance must be in writing, state the circumstances that constitute hardship, state the period of time the facility wishes to

Journal of the House - 40th Day - Thursday, March 29, 2007 - Top of Page 2246

have the variance for the scope of practice in place, and state the alternative measures that will be taken if the variance is granted. The commissioner shall set forth in writing the reasons for granting or denying the variance. Variances granted by the commissioner specify in writing the time limitation and required alternative measures to be taken by the facility. A request for the variance shall be denied if the commissioner finds the circumstances stated by the facility do not support a claim of hardship, the requested time period for the variance is unreasonable, the alternative measures proposed by the facility are not equivalent to the scope of practice, or the request for the variance is not submitted to the commissioner in a timely manner.

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective January 1, 2008.

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 144.121, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5f. Continuing education requirements. The commissioner shall approve continuing education programs for limited x-ray operators that offer x-ray-specific courses including, but not limited to, courses offered online. A limited x-ray operator shall complete four hours of continuing education during every two-year period and pay a $20 fee every two years in order to remain certified. The first two-year period ends January 1, 2010. A limited x-ray operator who is out of compliance shall be given three months to comply with this subdivision. After that three-month period, an individual who is out of compliance shall be required to take an examination, as provided in subdivision 5, in order to be recertified.

Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 147.037, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Requirements. The board shall issue a license to practice medicine to any person who satisfies the requirements in paragraphs (a) to (g).

(a) The applicant shall satisfy all the requirements established in section 147.02, subdivision 1, paragraphs (a), (e), (f), (g), and (h).

(b) The applicant shall present evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant is a graduate of a medical or osteopathic school approved by the board as equivalent to accredited United States or Canadian schools based upon its faculty, curriculum, facilities, accreditation, or other relevant data. If the applicant is a graduate of a medical or osteopathic program that is not accredited by the Liaison Committee for Medical Education or the American Osteopathic Association, the applicant ~~must~~ may use the Federation of State Medical Boards' Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS) or its successor. If the applicant uses this service as ~~required~~ allowed under this paragraph, the physician application fee may be less than $200 but must not exceed the cost of administering this paragraph.

(c) The applicant shall present evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has been awarded a certificate by the Educational Council for Foreign Medical Graduates, and the applicant has a working ability in the English language sufficient to communicate with patients and physicians and to engage in the practice of medicine.

(d) The applicant shall present evidence satisfactory to the board of the completion of two years of graduate, clinical medical training in a program located in the United States, its territories, or Canada and accredited by a national accrediting organization approved by the board. This requirement does not apply:

(1) to an applicant who is admitted as a permanent immigrant to the United States on or before October 1, 1991, as a person of exceptional ability in the sciences according to Code of Federal Regulations, title 20, section 656.22(d);

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(2) to an applicant holding a valid license to practice medicine in another country and issued a permanent immigrant visa after October 1, 1991, as a person of extraordinary ability in the field of science or as an outstanding professor or researcher according to Code of Federal Regulations, title 8, section 204.5(h) and (i), or a temporary nonimmigrant visa as a person of extraordinary ability in the field of science according to Code of Federal Regulations, title 8, section 214.2(o),

provided that a person under clause (1) or (2) is admitted pursuant to rules of the United States Department of Labor; or

(3) to an applicant who is licensed in another state, has practiced five years without disciplinary action in the United States, its territories, or Canada, has completed one year of the graduate, clinical medical training required by this paragraph, and has passed the Special Purpose Examination of the Federation of State Medical Boards within three attempts in the 24 months before licensing.

(e) The applicant must:

(1) have passed an examination prepared and graded by the Federation of State Medical Boards, the United States Medical Licensing Examination program in accordance with section 147.02, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (2), or the Medical Council of Canada; and

(2) have a current license from the equivalent licensing agency in another state or country and, if the examination in clause (1) was passed more than ten years ago, either:

(i) pass the Special Purpose Examination of the Federation of State Medical Boards with a score of 75 or better within three attempts; or

(ii) have a current certification by a specialty board of the American Board of Medical Specialties, of the American Osteopathic Association Bureau of Professional Education, of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, or of the College of Family Physicians of Canada.

(f) The applicant must not be under license suspension or revocation by the licensing board of the state or jurisdiction in which the conduct that caused the suspension or revocation occurred.

(g) The applicant must not have engaged in conduct warranting disciplinary action against a licensee, or have been subject to disciplinary action other than as specified in paragraph (f). If an applicant does not satisfy the requirements stated in this paragraph, the board may issue a license only on the applicant's showing that the public will be protected through issuance of a license with conditions or limitations the board considers appropriate.

EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 147A.27, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Organization. The council shall be organized and administered under section 15.059~~, except that the advisory council shall expire on June 30, 2007~~.

Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 147B.05, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Administration; compensation; removal; quorum. The advisory council is governed by section 15.059~~, except that the council does not expire until June 30, 2007~~.

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Sec. 11. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 147C.35, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Organization. The advisory council shall be organized and administered under section 15.059. ~~The council expires June 30, 2007.~~

Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 147D.25, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Organization. The advisory council shall be organized and administered under section 15.059. ~~The council expires June 30, 2007.~~

Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.515, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Master's or doctoral degree required for speech-language pathology applicants. (a) An applicant for speech-language pathology must possess a master's or doctoral degree that meets the requirements of paragraph (b). If completing a doctoral program in which a master's degree has not been conferred, an applicant must submit a transcript ~~showing~~ or letter from the academic department chair evidencing completion of ~~course work~~ coursework equivalent to, or exceeding, a master's degree that meets the requirement of paragraph (b).

(b) All of the speech-language pathology applicant's graduate coursework and clinical practicum required in the professional area for which licensure is sought must have been initiated and completed at an institution whose program meets the current requirements and was accredited by the Educational Standards Board of the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, a body recognized by the United States Department of Education, or an equivalent as determined by the commissioner, in the area for which licensure is sought.

Sec. 14. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.515, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 2a. Masters or doctoral degree required for audiology applicants. An applicant for audiology must possess a masters degree or doctoral degree that meets the following requirements:

(1) if graduate training is completed prior to August 30, 2007, an audiology applicant must possess a masters or doctoral degree in audiology from an accredited educational institution; or

(2) if graduate training is completed after August 30, 2007, an audiology applicant must possess a doctoral degree with an emphasis in audiology, or its equivalent as determined by the commissioner, from an accredited educational institution.

Sec. 15. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.65, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Physical therapist. "Physical therapist" means a person licensed by the board who practices physical therapy as defined in sections 148.65 to 148.78.

Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.65, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. Physical therapist assistant. "Physical therapist assistant" means a graduate of a physical therapist assistant educational program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) or a recognized comparable national accrediting agency approved by the board. The physical therapist assistant, person licensed by the board who provides physical therapy under the direction and supervision of ~~the~~ a physical therapist, and who performs physical therapy interventions and assists with coordination, communication, ~~and~~ documentation;, and patient-client-related instruction. ~~The physical therapist is not required to be on-site except as required under Minnesota Rules, part 5601.1500, but must be easily available by telecommunications.~~

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Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.65, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 8. Licensee. "Licensee" means a person licensed as a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant.

Sec. 18. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.67, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Board of Physical Therapy appointed. The governor shall appoint a state Board of Physical Therapy to administer sections 148.65 to 148.78, regarding the qualifications and examination of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. The board shall consist of nine members, citizens and residents of the state of Minnesota, composed of ~~four~~ five physical therapists, one licensed and registered doctor of medicine, ~~one~~ two physical ~~therapy assistant~~ therapist assistants, and three public members. The four physical therapist members and the physical therapist assistant members must be licensed ~~physical therapists~~ in this state~~. Each of the four physical therapist members must~~ and have at least five years' experience in physical therapy practice, physical therapy administration, or physical therapy education. The five years' experience must immediately precede appointment. Membership terms, compensation of members, removal of members, filling of membership vacancies, and fiscal year and reporting requirements shall be as provided in sections 214.07 to 214.09. The provision of staff, administrative services, and office space; the review and processing of complaints; the setting of board fees; and other provisions relating to board operations shall be as provided in chapter 214. Each member of the board shall file with the secretary of state the constitutional oath of office before beginning the term of office.

Sec. 19. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.70, is amended to read:

148.70 APPLICANTS, QUALIFICATIONS.

The Board of Physical Therapy must:

(1) establish the qualifications of applicants for licensing and continuing education requirements for ~~relicensing~~ renewal of licensure;

(2) provide for and conduct all examinations following satisfactory completion of all didactic requirements;

(3) determine the applicants who successfully pass the examination; and

(4) duly license an applicant after the applicant has presented evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has ~~completed an accredited physical therapy educational program of education or continuing education approved by the board~~ met all requirements for licensure as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.

~~The passing score for examinations taken after July 1, 1995, shall be based on objective, numerical standards, as established by a nationally recognized board approved testing service.~~

Sec. 20. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.705, is amended to read:

148.705 APPLICATION.

Subdivision 1. Form; fee. An applicant for ~~licensing~~ licensure as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant shall ~~file~~ submit a written application on forms provided by the board together with a the appropriate fee in the amount set by the board. No portion of the fee is refundable. No applicant will be approved to sit for the national examination until the application is complete, as determined by the board.

~~An approved program for physical therapists shall include the following:~~

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~~(1) a minimum of 60 academic semester credits or its equivalent from an accredited college, including courses in the biological and physical sciences; and~~

(2) an accredited course in physical therapy education which has provided adequate instruction in the basic sciences, clinical sciences, and physical therapy theory and procedures, as determined by the board. In determining whether or not a course in physical therapy is approved, the board may take into consideration the accreditation of such schools by the appropriate council of the American Medical Association, the American Physical Therapy Association, or the Canadian Medical Association.

Subd. 2. Contents of application. (a) The application must include the following information:

(1) evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has met the educational requirements of section 148.721 or 148.722 as demonstrated by a certified copy of a transcript;

(2) recommendations by two physical therapists registered or licensed to practice physical therapy in the United States or Canada attesting to the applicant's ethical and moral character;

(3) a recent full-face photograph of the applicant attached to the application with the affidavit on the form completed and notarized;

(4) a record of the applicant's high school, college, and board-approved physical therapy school education listing the names, locations, dates of attendance, and diplomas, degrees, or certificates awarded;

(5) a record of the applicant's postgraduate work and military service;

(6) a listing of the United States jurisdictions, and countries in which the applicant is currently licensed or registered, or has been in the past, including the applicant's license or registration certificate number, the date the license or registration was obtained, and the method by which the license or registration was received;

(7) a record of the applicant's current and previous physical therapy practice experience;

(8) a record of disciplinary action taken on past complaints, refusal of licensure or registration, or denial of examination eligibility by another state board or physical therapy society against the applicant;

(9) a record of the applicant's personal use or administration of any controlled substances and any treatment for alcohol or drug abuse;

(10) a record by the applicant of any disease, illness, or injury that impairs the applicant's ability to practice physical therapy;

(11) a record of any convictions for crimes related to the practice of physical therapy, felonies, gross misdemeanors, and crimes involving moral turpitude;

(12) a listing of any memberships in a physical therapy professional association;

(13) the applicant's name and address;

(14) the applicant's Social Security number, alien registration card number, or tax identification number, whichever is applicable;

(15) completed copies of credentials verification forms provided by the board; and

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(16) any information deemed necessary by the board to evaluate the applicant.

(b) A person who has previously practiced in another state shall submit the following information for the five-year period of active practice preceding the date of filing application in this state:

(1) the name and address of the person's professional liability insurer in the other state; and

(2) the number, date, and disposition of any malpractice settlement or award made to a plaintiff relating to the quality of services provided.

Sec. 21. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.706, is amended to read:

148.706 ~~SUPERVISION OF~~ PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANTS, AIDES, AND STUDENTS.

Subdivision 1. Supervision. Every physical therapist who uses the services of a physical therapist assistant or physical therapy aide for the purpose of assisting in the practice of physical therapy is responsible for functions performed by the assistant or aide while engaged in such assistance. The physical therapist shall delegate duties to the physical therapist assistant and assign tasks to the physical therapy aide in accordance with ~~Minnesota Rules, part 5601.1400~~ subdivision 2. Physical therapists who instruct student physical therapists and student physical therapist assistants are responsible for the functions performed by the students and shall supervise the students as provided under section 148.65, subdivisions 5 and 6. A licensed physical therapist may supervise no more than two physical therapist assistants at any time.

Subd. 2. Delegation of duties. The physical therapist may delegate patient treatment procedures only to a physical therapist assistant who has sufficient didactic and clinical preparation. The physical therapist may not delegate the following activities to the physical therapist assistant or to other supportive personnel: patient evaluation, treatment planning, initial treatment, change of treatment, and initial or final documentation.

Subd. 3. Observation of physical therapist assistants. When components of a patient's treatment are delegated to a physical therapist assistant, a physical therapist must provide on-site observation of the treatment and documentation of its appropriateness at least every six treatment sessions. The physical therapist is not required to be on-site, but must be easily available by telecommunications.

Subd. 4. Observation of physical therapy aides. The physical therapist must observe the patient's status before and after the treatment administered by a physical therapy aide. The physical therapy aide may perform tasks related to preparation of patient and equipment for treatment, housekeeping, transportation, clerical duties, departmental maintenance, and selected treatment procedures. The tasks must be performed under the direct supervision of a physical therapist who is readily available for advice, instruction, or immediate assistance.

Sec. 22. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.71, is amended to read:

148.71 ~~LICENSING~~ TEMPORARY PERMITS.

~~Subdivision 1.~~ ~~Qualified applicant.~~ The state Board of Physical Therapy shall license as a physical therapist and shall furnish a license to an applicant who successfully passes an examination provided for in sections 148.65 to 148.78 for licensing as a physical therapist and who is otherwise qualified as required in sections 148.65 to 148.78.

Subd. 2. ~~Temporary permit~~ Issuance. (a) The board may, upon completion of the application prescribed by the board and payment of a fee set by the board, issue a temporary permit to practice physical therapy under supervision to ~~a physical therapist who is a graduate of an approved school of physical therapy~~ an applicant for licensure as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant who meets the educational requirements of section

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148.721 or 148.722 and qualified for admission to examination for licensing as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. A temporary permit ~~to practice physical therapy under supervision~~ may be issued only once and cannot be renewed. It expires 90 days after the next examination for licensing given by the board or on the date on which the board, after examination of the applicant, grants or denies the applicant a license to practice, whichever occurs first. A temporary permit expires on the first day the board begins its next examination for license after the permit is issued if the holder does not submit to examination on that date. The holder of a temporary permit to practice ~~physical therapy~~ under supervision may practice physical therapy as defined in section 148.65 if the entire practice is under the supervision of a person holding a valid license to practice physical therapy in this state. The supervision shall be direct, immediate, and on premises.

(b) ~~A physical therapist~~ An applicant from another state who is licensed or otherwise registered in good standing as a physical therapist by that state and meets the requirements for licensing under section 148.72 does not require supervision to practice physical therapy while holding a temporary permit in this state. The temporary permit remains valid only until the meeting of the board at which the application for licensing is considered.

Subd. 3. ~~Foreign-trained~~ Foreign-educated physical therapists; temporary permits. (a) The Board of Physical Therapy may issue a temporary permit to a ~~foreign-trained~~ foreign-educated physical therapist who:

(1) is enrolled in a supervised physical therapy traineeship that meets the requirements under paragraph (b);

(2) has completed a physical therapy education program equivalent to that under section ~~148.705 and Minnesota Rules, part 5601.0800, subpart 2~~ 148.721, and has provided to the board a Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy (FCCPT) comprehensive credentials evaluation (Type I certificate) or FCCPT educational credentials review demonstrating completion of the program;

(3) has achieved a passing score ~~of at least 550~~ according to section 148.725, subdivision 3, on the test of English as a foreign language or ~~a score of at least 85 on the Minnesota battery test~~ an alternate equivalent examination, as determined by the board; and

(4) has paid a nonrefundable fee set by the board.

A ~~foreign-trained~~ foreign-educated physical therapist must have the temporary permit before beginning a traineeship.

(b) A supervised physical therapy traineeship must:

(1) be at least six months;

(2) be at a board-approved facility;

(3) provide a broad base of clinical experience to the ~~foreign-trained~~ foreign-educated physical therapist including a variety of physical agents, therapeutic exercises, evaluation procedures, and patient diagnoses;

(4) be supervised by a physical therapist who has at least three years of clinical experience and is licensed under subdivision 1; and

(5) be approved by the board before the ~~foreign-trained~~ foreign-educated physical therapist begins the traineeship.

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(c) A temporary permit is effective on the first day of a traineeship and expires 90 days after the next examination for licensing given by the board following successful completion of the traineeship or on the date on which the board, after examination of the applicant, grants or denies the applicant a license to practice, whichever occurs first.

(d) A ~~foreign-trained~~ foreign-educated physical therapist must successfully complete a traineeship to be licensed as a physical therapist under subdivision 1. The traineeship may be waived for a ~~foreign-trained~~ foreign-educated physical therapist who is licensed or otherwise registered in good standing in another state and has successfully practiced physical therapy in that state under the supervision of a licensed or registered physical therapist for at least six months at a facility that meets the requirements under paragraph (b), clauses (2) and (3).

(e) A temporary permit will not be issued to a ~~foreign-trained~~ foreign-educated applicant who has been issued a temporary permit for longer than six months in any other state.

Sec. 23. [148.721] EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSED PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

Subdivision 1. Accredited program. All applicants for licensure as a physical therapist must complete a course in physical therapy education accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) or which meets the accreditation requirements of CAPTE, as determined by the board.

Subd. 2. General education. In addition to completion of the accredited program required in subdivision 1, applicants must complete an additional 60 academic semester credits or its quarter equivalent from an institution of higher education that is accredited by a regional accrediting organization. Coursework used to satisfy this requirement may not have been earned as part of the accredited program requirement of subdivision 1.

Sec. 24. [148.722] EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSED PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT.

All applicants for licensure as a physical therapist assistant must graduate from a physical therapist assistant educational program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) or meet its standards, as determined by the board.

Sec. 25. [148.723] EXAMINATION FOR LICENSED PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

Subdivision 1. National test. All applicants for licensure as a physical therapist must take and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) or an alternate national examination determined by the board to be equivalent. For purposes of this section, passing scores are defined in subdivisions 2 and 3.

Subd. 2. Examinations taken on or before July 1, 1995. The passing score for qualifying examinations taken prior to July 1, 1995, is one standard deviation below the mean of all persons taking the examination.

Subd. 3. Examinations taken after July 1, 1995. The passing score for qualifying examinations taken after July 1, 1995, shall be based on objective, numerical standards established by the administering testing agency.

Sec. 26. [148.724] EXAMINATION FOR LICENSED PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT.

Subdivision 1. National test. All applicants for licensure as a physical therapist assistant must take and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for physical therapist assistants administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) or an alternate national examination determined by the board to be equivalent. For purposes of this section, passing scores are defined in subdivisions 2 to 4.

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Subd. 4. Grandparenting provision. Applicants for licensure as a physical therapist assistant who meet the educational requirements of section 148.722 prior to September 1, 2007, are not required to take and pass the examination required by this section. This provision expires on July 1, 2008.

Sec. 27. [148.725] REQUIREMENTS FOR FOREIGN-EDUCATED APPLICANTS.

Subdivision 1. Scope and documentation. An applicant for licensure who is a foreign-educated physical therapist must fulfill the requirements in subdivisions 2 to 5, providing certified English translations of board-required relevant documentation.

Subd. 2. Education evaluation. The applicant must present evidence of completion of physical therapy schooling equivalent to that required in section 148.721 by having a Type I comprehensive credentials evaluation or educational credentials review performed by the Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy (FCCPT). The evaluation must be sent directly to the board from the FCCPT. The applicant shall be responsible for the expenses incurred as a result of the evaluation.

Subd. 3. English test. If not completed as part of the FCCPT Type I comprehensive credentials evaluation, the applicant must demonstrate English language proficiency by taking the test of English as a foreign language examination (TOEFL) and achieving a passing score as established by the board, or a passing score on a comparable nationally recognized examination approved by the board. For purposes of this subdivision, the passing score adopted by the board shall be applied prospectively.

Subd. 4. Experience. The applicant must have practiced satisfactorily for at least six months under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist at a board-approved facility. A facility that offers such practice must provide a broad base of experience including a variety of physical agents, therapeutic exercises, evaluation procedures, and patient diagnoses. Supervision must be provided by a licensed physical therapist with at least three years of clinical experience. A proposed outline of clinical experiences must be approved by the board before the facility begins offering the experience.

Subd. 5. Examination. The applicant must satisfactorily complete the board-approved examination as stated in section 148.72 or 148.73.

Sec. 28. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.73, is amended to read:

148.73 RENEWALS.

Every licensed physical therapist and physical therapist assistant shall, ~~during each January~~ before January 1 each year, apply to the board for an extension of a license and pay a fee in the amount set by the board. The extension of the license is contingent upon demonstration that the continuing education requirements set by the board under section 148.70 have been satisfied. For purposes of this section, the continuing education requirements for physical therapist assistants are the same as those for physical therapists.

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Sec. 29. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.735, is amended to read:

148.735 CANCELLATION OF LICENSE IN GOOD STANDING.

Subdivision 1. Board approval; reporting. A physical therapist or physical therapist assistant holding an active license to practice physical therapy in the state may, upon approval of the board, be granted license cancellation if the board is not investigating the person as a result of a complaint or information received or if the board has not begun disciplinary proceedings against the person. Such action by the board shall be reported as a cancellation of a license in good standing.

Subd. 2. Fees nonrefundable. A physical therapist or physical therapist assistant who receives board approval for license cancellation is not entitled to a refund of any license fees paid for the licensure year in which cancellation of the license occurred.

Subd. 3. New license after cancellation. If a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant who has been granted board approval for license cancellation desires to resume the practice of physical therapy in Minnesota, that physical therapist or physical therapist assistant must obtain a new license by applying for licensure and fulfilling the requirements then in existence for obtaining an initial license to practice physical therapy in Minnesota.

Sec. 30. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.736, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Board approval; reporting. A physical therapist, or physical therapist assistant whose right to practice is under suspension, condition, limitation, qualification, or restriction by the board may be granted cancellation of credentials by approval of the board. Such action by the board shall be reported as cancellation while under discipline. Credentials, for purposes of this section, means board authorized documentation of the privilege to practice physical therapy.

Sec. 31. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.74, is amended to read:

148.74 RULES.

The board may adopt rules needed to carry out sections 148.65 to 148.78. The secretary-treasurer of the board shall keep a record of proceedings under these sections and a register of all persons licensed under it. The register shall show the name, address, date and number of the license, and the renewal of the license. Any other interested person in the state may obtain a copy of the list on request to the board upon paying an amount fixed by the board. The amount shall not exceed the cost of the list furnished. The board shall provide blanks, books, certificates, and stationery and assistance necessary to transact business of the board. All money received by the board under sections 148.65 to 148.78 shall be paid into the state treasury as provided for by law. The board shall set by rule the amounts of the application fee and the annual licensing fee. The fees collected by the board must be sufficient to cover the costs of administering sections 148.65 to 148.78.

Sec. 32. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.75, is amended to read:

148.75 ~~LICENSES; DENIAL, SUSPENSION, REVOCATION~~ DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

(a) The ~~state~~ board ~~of Physical Therapy may refuse to grant a license to any physical therapist, or may suspend or revoke the license of any physical therapist for any of the following grounds~~ may impose disciplinary action specified in paragraph (b) against an applicant or licensee whom the board, by a preponderance of the evidence, determines:

~~(1) using drugs or intoxicating liquors to an extent which affects professional competence;~~

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~~(2) conviction of a felony;~~

(1) has violated a statute, rule, order, or agreement for corrective action that the board issued or is otherwise authorized or empowered to enforce;

(2) is unable to practice physical therapy with reasonable skill and safety by reason of any mental or physical illness or condition, including deterioration through the aging process or loss of motor skills, or use of alcohol, drugs, narcotics, chemicals, or any other type of material;

(3) has been convicted of or has pled guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or other crime, an element of which is dishonesty or fraud, or has been shown to have engaged in acts or practices tending to show that the applicant or licensee is incompetent or has engaged in conduct reflecting adversely on the applicant's or licensee's ability or fitness to engage in the practice of physical therapy;

~~(3) conviction for~~ (4) has been convicted of violating any state or federal narcotic law;

~~(4) obtaining~~ (5) has obtained or attempted to obtain a license ~~or attempting to obtain a license~~ or approval of continuing education activities, or passed an examination, by fraud or deception;

~~(5) conduct unbecoming a person licensed as a physical therapist or conduct detrimental to the best interests of the public;~~

(6) has engaged in unprofessional conduct or any other conduct which has the potential for causing harm to the public, including any departure from or failure to conform to the minimum standards of acceptable and prevailing practice without actual injury having to be established;

~~(6)~~ (7) has engaged in gross negligence in the practice of physical therapy as a physical therapist;

~~(7) treating~~ (8) has treated human ailments by physical therapy after an initial 30-day period of patient admittance to treatment has lapsed, except by the order or referral of a person licensed in this state in the practice of medicine as defined in section 147.081, the practice of chiropractic as defined in section 148.01, the practice of podiatry as defined in section 153.01, or the practice of dentistry as defined in section 150A.05 and whose license is in good standing; or when a previous diagnosis exists indicating an ongoing condition warranting physical therapy treatment, subject to periodic review defined by board of physical therapy rule;

~~(8) treating~~ (9) has treated human ailments, without referral, by physical therapy treatment without first having practiced one year under a physician's orders as verified by the board's records;

~~(9) failing~~ (10) has failed to consult with the patient's health care provider who prescribed the physical therapy treatment if the treatment is altered by the physical therapist from the original written order. The provision does not include written orders to "evaluate and treat";

~~(10) treating human ailments other than by physical therapy unless duly licensed or registered to do so under the laws of this state;~~

(11) ~~inappropriate delegation~~ has inappropriately delegated to a physical therapist assistant or ~~inappropriate task assignment~~ inappropriately assigned tasks to an aide, or ~~inadequate supervision of~~ inadequately supervised a student physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, student physical therapist assistant, or a physical therapy aide;

(12) ~~practicing~~ has practiced as a physical therapist performing medical diagnosis, the practice of medicine as defined in section 147.081, or the practice of chiropractic as defined in section 148.01;

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(13) ~~failing~~ has failed to comply with a reasonable request to obtain appropriate clearance for mental or physical conditions that would interfere with the ability to practice physical therapy, and that may be potentially harmful to patients;

(14) ~~dividing~~ has divided fees with, or paying or promising to pay a commission or part of the fee to, any person who contacts the physical therapist for consultation or sends patients to the physical therapist for treatment;

(15) ~~engaging~~ has engaged in an incentive payment arrangement, other than that prohibited by clause (14), that tends to promote physical therapy overuse, that allows the referring person or person who controls the availability of physical therapy services to a client to profit unreasonably as a result of patient treatment;

(16) ~~practicing physical therapy and failing~~ has failed to refer to a licensed health care professional a patient whose medical condition at the time of evaluation has been determined by the physical therapist to be beyond the scope of practice of a physical therapist;

(17) ~~failing~~ has failed to report to the board other ~~licensed physical therapists~~ licensees who violate this section; ~~and~~

(18) ~~practicing~~ has engaged in the practice of physical therapy under lapsed or nonrenewed credentials.;

(19) has had a license, certificate, charter, registration, privilege to take an examination, or other similar authority denied, revoked, suspended, canceled, limited, reprimanded, or otherwise disciplined, or not renewed for cause in any jurisdiction; or has surrendered or voluntarily terminated a license or certificate during a board investigation of a complaint, as part of a disciplinary order, or while under a disciplinary order;

(20) has been subject to a corrective action or similar action in another jurisdiction or by another regulatory authority; or

(21) has failed to cooperate with an investigation of the board, including responding fully and promptly to any question raised by or on behalf of the board relating to the subject of the investigation, executing all releases requested by the board, providing copies of patient records, as reasonably requested by the board to assist it in its investigation, and appearing at conferences or hearings scheduled by the board or its staff.

(b) If grounds for disciplinary action exist under paragraph (a), the board may take one or more of the following actions:

(1) deny the application for licensure;

(2) deny the renewal of the license;

(3) revoke the license;

(4) suspend the license;

(5) impose limitations or conditions on the licensee's practice of physical therapy, including the: (i) limitation of scope of practice to designated field specialties; (ii) imposition of retraining or rehabilitation requirements; (iii) requirement of practice under supervision; or (iv) conditioning of continued practice on demonstration of knowledge or skills by appropriate examination, monitoring, or other review of skill and competence;

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(6) impose a civil penalty not to exceed $10,000 for each separate violation, the amount of the civil penalty to be fixed so as to deprive the physical therapist of any economic advantage gained by reason of the violation charged, to discourage similar violations, or to reimburse the board for the cost of the investigation and proceeding including, but not limited to, fees paid for services provided by the Office of Administrative Hearings, legal and investigative services provided by the Office of the Attorney General, court reporters, witnesses, reproduction of records, board members' per diem compensation, board staff time, and travel costs and expenses incurred by board staff and board members;

(7) order the licensee to provide unremunerated service;

(8) censure or reprimand the licensee; or

(9) any other action as allowed by law and justified by the facts of the case.

~~(b)~~ (c) A license to practice as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant is automatically suspended if (1) a guardian of the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee is appointed by order of a court pursuant to sections 524.5-101 to 524.5-502, for reasons other than the minority of the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee; or (2) the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee is committed by order of a court pursuant to chapter 253B. The license remains suspended until the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee is restored to capacity by a court and, upon petition by the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee, the suspension is terminated by the Board of Physical Therapy after a hearing.

Sec. 33. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.754, is amended to read:

148.754 EXAMINATION; ACCESS TO MEDICAL DATA.

(a) If the board has probable cause to believe that a ~~physical therapist~~ licensee comes under section 148.75, paragraph (a), clause (2), it may direct the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee to submit to a mental or physical examination. For the purpose of this paragraph, every ~~physical therapist~~ licensee is deemed to have consented to submit to a mental or physical examination when directed in writing by the board and further to have waived all objections to the admissibility of the examining physicians' testimony or examination reports on the ground that they constitute a privileged communication. Failure of the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee to submit to an examination when directed constitutes an admission of the allegations against the person, unless the failure was due to circumstances beyond the person's control, in which case a default and final order may be entered without the taking of testimony or presentation of evidence. A ~~physical therapist~~ licensee affected under this paragraph shall, at reasonable intervals, be given an opportunity to demonstrate that the person can resume the competent practice of physical therapy with reasonable skill and safety to the public.

(b) In any proceeding under paragraph (a), neither the record of proceedings nor the orders entered by the board shall be used against a ~~physical therapist~~ licensee in any other proceeding.

(c) In addition to ordering a physical or mental examination, the board may, notwithstanding section 13.384, 144.651, or any other law limiting access to medical or other health data, obtain medical data and health records relating to a ~~physical therapist~~ licensee or applicant without the person's or applicant's consent if the board has probable cause to believe that ~~a physical therapist~~ the person comes under paragraph (a). The medical data may be requested from a provider, as defined in section 144.335, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), an insurance company, or a government agency, including the Department of Human Services. A provider, insurance company, or government agency shall comply with any written request of the board under this paragraph and is not liable in any action for damages for releasing the data requested by the board if the data are released pursuant to a written request under this paragraph, unless the information is false and the provider giving the information knew, or had reason to believe, the information was false. Information obtained under this paragraph is classified as private under sections 13.01 to 13.87.

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Sec. 34. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.755, is amended to read:

148.755 TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF LICENSE.

In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the board may, without a hearing, temporarily suspend the license of a ~~physical therapist~~ licensee if the board finds that the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee has violated a statute or rule which the board is empowered to enforce and continued practice by the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee would create a serious risk of harm to the public. The suspension shall take effect upon written notice to the ~~physical therapist~~ licensee, specifying the statute or rule violated. The suspension shall remain in effect until the board issues a final order in the matter after a hearing. At the time it issues the suspension notice, the board shall schedule a disciplinary hearing to be held pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act, chapter 14. The ~~physical therapist~~ licensee shall be provided with at least 20 days' notice of any hearing held pursuant to this section. The hearing shall be scheduled to begin no later than 30 days after the issuance of the suspension order.

Sec. 35. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.76, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Licensure required. No person shall:

(1) provide physical therapy unless the person is licensed as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant under sections 148.65 to 148.78;

(2) use the title of physical therapist without a license as a physical therapist or use the title physical therapist assistant without a license as a physical therapist assistant issued under sections 148.65 to 148.78;

(3) in any manner hold out as a physical therapist, or use in connection with the person's name the words or letters Physical Therapist, Physiotherapist, Physical Therapy Technician, Registered Physical Therapist, Licensed Physical Therapist, PT, PTT, RPT, LPT, or any letters, words, abbreviations or insignia indicating or implying that the person is a physical therapist, without a license as a physical therapist issued under sections 148.65 to 148.78. To do so is a gross misdemeanor;

(4) in any manner hold out as a physical therapist assistant, or use in connection with the person's name the words or letters Physical Therapist Assistant, P.T.A., or any letters, words, abbreviations, or insignia indicating or implying that the person is a physical therapist assistant, without a license as a physical therapist assistant under sections 148.65 to 148.78. To do so is a gross misdemeanor; or

~~(4)~~ (5) employ fraud or deception in applying for or securing a license as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.

Nothing in sections 148.65 to 148.78 prohibits a person licensed or registered in this state under another law from carrying out the therapy or practice for which the person is duly licensed or registered.

Sec. 36. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148.78, is amended to read:

148.78 PROSECUTION, ALLEGATIONS.

In the prosecution of any person for violation of sections 148.65 to 148.78 as specified in section 148.76, it shall not be necessary to allege or prove want of a valid license as a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant, but shall be a matter of defense to be established by the accused.

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Sec. 37. [148.785] FEES.

The fees charged by the board are fixed at the following rates:

(1) application fee for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, $100;

(2) annual licensure for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, $60;

(3) licensure renewal late fee, $20;

(4) temporary permit, $25;

(5) duplicate license or registration, $20;

(6) certification letter, $25;

(7) education or training program approval, $100;

(8) report creation and generation, $60 per hour billed in quarter-hour increments with a quarter-hour minimum; and

(9) examination administration:

(i) half day, $50; and

(ii) full day, $80.

Sec. 38. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148B.50, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. Scope of practice. (a) The scope of practice of a licensed professional counselor includes, but is not limited to:

(1) the implementation of professional counseling treatment interventions including evaluation, treatment planning, assessment, and referral;

(2) direct counseling services to individuals, groups, and families;

(3) counseling strategies that effectively respond to multicultural populations;

(4) knowledge of relevant laws and ethics impacting practice;

(5) crisis intervention;

(6) consultation; and

(7) program evaluation and applied research.

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(b) For the purposes of paragraph (a), clause (1), "professional counseling treatment interventions" means the application of cognitive, affective, behavioral, systemic, and community counseling strategies which include principles of human development, wellness, and pathology. Counselors provide mental health services for clients whose symptoms significantly interfere with daily functioning and would most likely not improve in a reasonable time period without intervention.

(c) Licensed professional counseling does not include activities or services undertaken by persons listed in section 148B.592, or the performance of any act that licensed professional counselors are not educated and trained to perform.

(d) In order to evaluate and treat mental illness, a licensed professional counselor must complete the postgraduate training specified in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clause (6), or 245.4871, subdivision 27, clause (6).

Sec. 39. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148B.53, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. General requirements. (a) To be licensed as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), an applicant must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(1) is at least 18 years of age;

(2) is of good moral character;

(3) has completed a master's or doctoral degree program in counseling or a related field, as determined by the board based on the criteria in paragraph (b), that includes a minimum of 48 semester hours or 72 quarter hours and a supervised field experience of not fewer than 700 hours that is counseling in nature;

(4) has submitted to the board a plan for supervision during the first 2,000 hours of professional practice or has submitted proof of supervised professional practice that is acceptable to the board; and

(5) has demonstrated competence in professional counseling by passing the National Counseling Exam (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. (NBCC) or an equivalent national examination as determined by the board, and ethical, oral, and situational examinations if prescribed by the board.

(b) The degree described in paragraph (a), clause (3), must be from a counseling program recognized by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) or from an institution of higher education that is accredited by a regional accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). ~~Except as provided in paragraph (e),~~ Specific academic course content and training must include ~~course work~~ course work in each of the following subject areas:

(1) the helping relationship, including counseling theory and practice;

(2) human growth and development;

(3) lifestyle and career development;

(4) group dynamics, processes, counseling, and consulting;

(5) assessment and appraisal;

(6) social and cultural foundations, including multicultural issues;

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(7) principles of etiology, treatment planning, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders and dysfunctional behavior;

(8) family counseling and therapy;

(9) research and evaluation; and

(10) professional counseling orientation and ethics.

(c) To be licensed as a professional counselor, a psychological practitioner licensed under section 148.908 need only show evidence of licensure under that section and is not required to comply with paragraph (a), clauses (1) to (3) and (5), or paragraph (b).

(d) To be licensed as a professional counselor, a Minnesota licensed psychologist need only show evidence of licensure from the Minnesota Board of Psychology and is not required to comply with paragraph (a) or (b).

(e) If the degree described in paragraph (a), clause (3), is from a counseling program recognized by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP), the applicant is deemed to have met the specific course work requirements of paragraph (b).

Sec. 40. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148B.53, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. Fee. Nonrefundable fees are as follows:

(1) initial license application fee for licensed professional counseling (LPC) - ~~$250~~ $150;

(2) initial license fee for LPC - $250;

(3) annual active license renewal fee for LPC - ~~$200~~ $250 or equivalent;

~~(3)~~ (4) annual inactive license renewal fee for LPC - ~~$100~~ $125;

(5) initial license application fee for licensed professional clinical counseling (LPCC) - $150;

(6) initial license fee for LPCC - $250;

(7) annual active license renewal fee for LPCC - $250 or equivalent;

(8) annual inactive license renewal fee for LPCC - $125;

~~(4)~~ (9) license renewal late fee - $100 per month or portion thereof;

~~(5)~~ (10) copy of board order or stipulation - $10;

~~(6)~~ (11) certificate of good standing or license verification - ~~$10~~ $25;

~~(7)~~ (12) duplicate certificate fee - ~~$10~~ $25;

~~(8)~~ (13) professional firm renewal fee - $25;

~~(9)~~ (14) sponsor application for approval of a continuing education course - $60;

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(15) initial registration fee - $50; ~~and~~

~~(10)~~ (16) annual registration renewal fee - $25; and

(17) approved supervisor application processing fee - $30.

Sec. 41. [148B.5301] REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE AS A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL CLINICAL COUNSELOR.

Subdivision 1. General requirements. (a) To be licensed as a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), an applicant must provide satisfactory evidence to the board that the applicant:

(1) is at least 18 years of age;

(2) is of good moral character;

(3) has completed a masters or doctoral degree program in counseling or a related field, as determined by the board based on the criteria in items (i) to (x), that includes a minimum of 48 semester hours or 72 quarter hours and a supervised field experience in counseling that is not fewer than 700 hours. The degree must be from a counseling program recognized by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) or from an institution of higher education that is accredited by a regional accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Specific academic course content and training must include coursework in each of the following subject areas:

(i) helping relationship, including counseling theory and practice;

(ii) human growth and development;

(iii) lifestyle and career development;

(iv) group dynamics, processes, counseling, and consulting;

(v) assessment and appraisal;

(vi) social and cultural foundations, including multicultural issues;

(vii) principles of etiology, treatment planning, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders and dysfunctional behavior;

(viii) family counseling and therapy;

(ix) research and evaluation; and

(x) professional counseling orientation and ethics;

(4) has demonstrated competence in professional counseling by passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. (NBCC) and ethical, oral, and situational examinations as prescribed by the board. In lieu of the NCMHCE, applicants who have taken and passed the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the NBCC, or another board-approved examination, need only take and pass the Examination of Clinical Counseling Practice (ECCP) administered by the NBCC;

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(5) has earned graduate-level semester credits or quarter-credit equivalents in the following clinical content areas as follows:

(i) six credits in diagnostic assessment for child or adult mental disorders; normative development; and psychopathology, including developmental psychopathology;

(ii) three credits in clinical treatment planning, with measurable goals;

(iii) six credits in clinical intervention methods informed by research evidence and community standards of practice;

(iv) three credits in evaluation methodologies regarding the effectiveness of interventions;

(v) three credits in professional ethics applied to clinical practice; and

(vi) three credits in cultural diversity; and

(6) has demonstrated successful completion of 4,000 hours of supervised, postmasters degree professional practice in the delivery of clinical services in the diagnosis and treatment of child and adult mental illnesses and disorders, conducted according to subdivision 2.

(b) If coursework in paragraph (a) was not completed as part of the degree program required by paragraph (a), clause (3), the coursework must be taken and passed for credit, and must be earned from a counseling program or institution that meets the requirements of paragraph (a), clause (3).

Subd. 2. Supervision. (a) To qualify as a LPCC, an applicant must have completed 4,000 hours of postmasters degree supervised professional practice in the delivery of clinical services in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses and disorders in both children and adults. The supervised practice shall be conducted according to the requirements in paragraphs (b) to (e).

(b) The supervision must have been received under a contract that defines clinical practice and supervision from a mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to (6), or section 245.4871, subdivision 27, clauses (1) to (6), or by a board-approved supervisor, who has at least two years of postlicensure experience in the delivery of clinical services in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses and disorders.

(c) The supervision must be obtained at the rate of two hours of supervision per 40 hours of professional practice. The supervision must be evenly distributed over the course of the supervised professional practice. At least 75 percent of the required supervision hours must be received in person. The remaining 25 percent of the required hours may be received by telephone or by audio or audiovisual electronic device. At least 50 percent of the required hours of supervision must be received on an individual basis. The remaining 50 percent may be received in a group setting.

(d) The supervised practice must include at least 1,800 hours of clinical client contact.

(e) The supervised practice must be clinical practice. Supervision includes the observation by the supervisor of the successful application of professional counseling knowledge, skills, and values in the differential diagnosis and treatment of psychosocial function, disability, or impairment, including addictions and emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders.

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Subd. 3. Conversion from licensed professional counselor to licensed clinical counselor. (a) Until August 1, 2011, an individual currently licensed in the state of Minnesota as a licensed professional counselor may convert to a LPCC by providing evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has met the following requirements:

(1) is at least 18 years of age;

(2) is of good moral character;

(3) has a license that is active and in good standing;

(4) has no complaints pending, uncompleted disciplinary orders, or corrective action agreements;

(5) has completed a masters or doctoral degree program in counseling or a related field, as determined by the board, and whose degree was from a counseling program recognized by CACREP or from an institution of higher education that is accredited by a regional accrediting organization recognized by CHEA;

(6) has earned 24 graduate-level semester credits or quarter-credit equivalents in clinical coursework which includes content in the following clinical areas:

(i) diagnostic assessment for child and adult mental disorders; normative development; and psychopathology, including developmental psychopathology;

(ii) clinical treatment planning, with measurable goals;

(iii) clinical intervention methods informed by research evidence and community standards of practice;

(iv) evaluation methodologies regarding the effectiveness of interventions;

(v) professional ethics applied to clinical practice; and

(vi) cultural diversity;

(7) has demonstrated, to the satisfaction of the board, successful completion of 4,000 hours of supervised, postmasters degree professional practice in the delivery of clinical services in the diagnosis and treatment of child and adult mental illnesses and disorders; and

(8) has paid the LPCC application and licensure fees required in section 148B.53, subdivision 3.

(b) If the coursework in paragraph (a) was not completed as part of the degree program required by paragraph (a), clause (5), the coursework must be taken and passed for credit, and must be earned from a counseling program or institution that meets the requirements in paragraph (a), clause (5).

Subd. 4. Conversion to licensed professional clinical counselor after August 1, 2011. An individual licensed in the state of Minnesota as a licensed professional counselor may convert to a LPCC by providing evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has met the requirements of subdivisions 1 and 2, subject to the following:

(1) the individual's license must be active and in good standing;

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(2) the individual must not have any complaints pending, uncompleted disciplinary orders, or corrective action agreements; and

(3) the individual has paid the LPCC application and licensure fees required in section 148B.53, subdivision 3.

Subd. 5. Scope of practice. The scope of practice of a LPCC shall include all those services provided by mental health professionals as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, and section 245.4871, subdivision 27.

Subd. 6. Jurisdiction. LPCC's are subject to the board's statutes and rules to the same extent as licensed professional counselors.

Sec. 42. [148B.532] DEGREES FROM FOREIGN INSTITUTIONS.

Subdivision 1. Scope and documentation. In addition to meeting all other licensure requirements, an applicant for licensure whose degree was received from a foreign degree program that is not recognized by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) or from a foreign institution of higher education that is not accredited by a regional accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) must fulfill the requirements of this section, providing certified English translations of board-required relevant documentation.

Subd. 2. Education evaluation. An applicant for licensure as a licensed professional counselor must present evidence of completion of a degree equivalent to that required in section 148B.53, subdivision 1, paragraphs (a), clause (3); and (b). This evidence will be evaluated by the board with the assistance of a credentials evaluation service familiar with educational standards and professional qualification. The evaluation must be sent directly to the board from the evaluating agency. Agencies providing evaluation services must be accepted by the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. The applicant shall be responsible for the expenses incurred as a result of the evaluation.

Sec. 43. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148C.12, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 12. Sponsor application fee. The fee for sponsor application for approval of a continuing education course is $60.

Sec. 44. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148C.12, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 13. Order or stipulation fee. The fee for a copy of a board order or stipulation is $10.

Sec. 45. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148C.12, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 14. Duplicate certificate fee. The fee for a duplicate certificate is $25.

Sec. 46. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148C.12, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 15. Supervisor application processing fee. The fee for licensure supervisor application processing is $30.

Sec. 47. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.050, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Requirements. ~~The practice of social work~~ A person licensed under section 148D.055 or 148D.061 must comply with the requirements of subdivision 2, 3, 4, or 5.

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Sec. 48. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.055, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Qualifications for licensure by examination as a licensed social worker. (a) ~~Except as provided in paragraph (i),~~ To be licensed as a licensed social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(1) has received a baccalaureate 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 accreditation body designated by the board;

(2) has passed the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement pursuant to subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board. The examination may be taken prior to completing degree requirements;

(3) has submitted a completed, signed application form provided by the board, including the applicable application fee specified in section 148D.180. For applications submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board;

(4) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check pursuant to subdivision 8;

(5) has paid the applicable license fee specified in section 148D.180; and

(6) has not engaged in conduct that was or would be in violation of the standards of practice specified in sections 148D.195 to 148D.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 pursuant to sections 148D.255 to 148D.270.

(b) An application that is not completed and signed, or that is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(c) A licensee granted a license by the board pursuant to paragraph (a) must meet the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148D.100 to 148D.125. If a licensee does not meet the supervised practice requirements, the board may take action pursuant to sections 148D.255 to 148D.270.

(d) By submitting an application for licensure, an applicant authorizes the board to investigate any information provided or requested in the application. The board may request that the applicant provide additional information, verification, or documentation.

(e) Within one year of the time the board receives an application for licensure, the applicant must meet all the requirements specified in paragraph (a) and must provide all of the information requested by the board pursuant to paragraph (d). If within one year the applicant does not meet all the requirements, or does not provide all of the information requested, the applicant is considered ineligible and the application for licensure must be closed.

(f) Except as provided in paragraph (g), an applicant may not take more than three times the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards, or a similar examination body designated by the board. An applicant must receive a passing score on the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board in no more than 18 months after the date the applicant first failed the examination.

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(g) Notwithstanding paragraph (f), the board may allow an applicant to take, for a fourth or subsequent time, the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board if the applicant:

(1) meets all requirements specified in paragraphs (a) to (e) other than passing the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board;

(2) provides to the board a description of the efforts the applicant has made to improve the applicant's score and demonstrates to the board's satisfaction that the efforts are likely to improve the score; and

(3) provides to the board letters of recommendation from two licensed social workers attesting to the applicant's ability to practice social work competently and ethically in accordance with professional social work knowledge, skills, and values.

(h) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148D.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, and the applicant has failed the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

(i) An applicant who was born in a foreign country, who has taken and failed to pass the examination specified in paragraph (a), clause (2), at least once since January 1, 2000, and for whom English is a second language, is eligible for licensure as a social worker if the applicant:

~~(1) provides evidence to the board of compliance with the requirements in paragraph (a), clauses (1) and (3) to (6), and in paragraphs (b) to (e) and (h); and~~

(2) provides to the board letters of recommendation and experience ratings from two licensed social workers and one professor from the applicant's social work program who can attest to the applicant's competence.

~~This paragraph expires August 1, 2007.~~

Sec. 49. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.055, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. Qualifications for licensure by examination as licensed graduate social worker. (a) ~~Except as provided in paragraph (i),~~ To be licensed as a licensed graduate social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(1) has received a 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 accreditation body designated by the board;

(2) has passed the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement pursuant to section 148D.055, subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board. The examination may be taken prior to completing degree requirements;

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(4) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check pursuant to subdivision 8;

(5) has paid the applicable license fee specified in section 148D.180; and

(b) An application which is not completed and signed, or which is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(f) Except as provided in paragraph (g), an applicant may not take more than three times the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. An applicant must receive a passing score on the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board in no more than 18 months after the date the applicant first failed the examination.

(g) Notwithstanding paragraph (f), the board may allow an applicant to take, for a fourth or subsequent time, the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board if the applicant:

(1) meets all requirements specified in paragraphs (a) to (e) other than passing the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work boards or a similar examination body designated by the board;

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(h) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148D.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, and the applicant has failed the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

~~(1) provides evidence to the board of compliance with the requirements in paragraph (a), clauses (1) and (3) to (6), and in paragraphs (b) to (e) and (h); and~~

~~This paragraph expires August 1, 2007.~~

Sec. 50. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.055, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. Licensure by examination; licensed independent social worker. (a) ~~Except as provided in paragraph (i),~~ To be licensed as a licensed independent social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(2) has practiced social work as defined in section 148D.010, and has met the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148D.100 to 148D.125;

(3) has passed the advanced generalist or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement pursuant to subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board;

(4) has submitted a completed, signed application form provided by the board, including the applicable application fee specified in section 148D.180. For applications submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board;

(5) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check pursuant to subdivision 8;

(6) has paid the applicable license fee specified in section 148D.180; and

(7) has not engaged in conduct that was or would be in violation of the standards of practice specified in sections 148D.195 to 148D.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 pursuant to sections 148D.255 to 148D.270.

(b) An application which is not completed and signed, or which is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

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(c) A licensed independent social worker who practices clinical social work must meet the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148D.100 to 148D.125. If a licensee does not meet the supervised practice requirements, the board may take action pursuant to sections 148D.255 to 148D.270.

(f) Except as provided in paragraph (g), an applicant may not take more than three times the advanced generalist or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. An applicant must receive a passing score on the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board in no more than 18 months after the first time the applicant failed the examination.

(g) Notwithstanding paragraph (f), the board may allow an applicant to take, for a fourth or subsequent time, the advanced generalist or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board if the applicant:

(1) meets all requirements specified in paragraphs (a) to (e) other than passing the advanced generalist or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board;

(h) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148D.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, except as provided in section 148D.065, and the applicant has failed the advanced generalist or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

(i) An applicant who was born in a foreign country, who has taken and failed to pass the examination specified in paragraph (a), clause (3), at least once since January 1, 2000, and for whom English is a second language, is eligible for licensure as a social worker if the applicant:

~~(1) provides evidence to the board of compliance with the requirements in paragraph (a), clauses (1), (2), and (4) to (7), and in paragraphs (b) to (e) and (h); and~~

~~This paragraph expires August 1, 2007.~~

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Sec. 51. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.055, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. Licensure by examination; licensed independent clinical social worker. (a) ~~Except as provided in paragraph (h),~~ To be licensed as a licensed independent clinical social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(2) has practiced clinical social work as defined in section 148D.010, including both diagnosis and treatment, and has met the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148D.100 to 148D.125;

(3) has passed the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement pursuant to subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board;

(5) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check pursuant to subdivision 8;

(6) has paid the license fee specified in section 148D.180; and

(b) An application which is not completed and signed, or which is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(c) By submitting an application for licensure, an applicant authorizes the board to investigate any information provided or requested in the application. The board may request that the applicant provide additional information, verification, or documentation.

(d) Within one year of the time the board receives an application for licensure, the applicant must meet all the requirements specified in paragraph (a) and must provide all of the information requested by the board pursuant to paragraph (c). If within one year the applicant does not meet all the requirements, or does not provide all of the information requested, the applicant is considered ineligible and the application for licensure must be closed.

(e) Except as provided in paragraph (f), an applicant may not take more than three times the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. An applicant must receive a passing score on the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board no later than 18 months after the first time the applicant failed the examination.

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(f) Notwithstanding paragraph (e), the board may allow an applicant to take, for a fourth or subsequent time, the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board if the applicant:

(1) meets all requirements specified in paragraphs (a) to (d) other than passing the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board;

(g) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148D.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, and the applicant has failed the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

(h) An applicant who was born in a foreign country, who has taken and failed to pass the examination specified in paragraph (a), clause (3), at least once since January 1, 2000, and for whom English is a second language, is eligible for licensure as a social worker if the applicant:

~~(1) provides evidence to the board of compliance with the requirements in paragraph (a), clauses (1), (2), and (4) to (7), and paragraphs (b) to (d) and (g); and~~

~~This paragraph expires August 1, 2007.~~

Sec. 52. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.055, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 7a. Provisional licensure. An applicant for provisional licensure must meet the license requirements in subdivisions 2 to 8, except the applicant does not have to pass an examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board.

Sec. 53. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.060, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 2a. Programs in candidacy status. The board may issue a temporary license to practice social work to an applicant who has completed the requirements for a baccalaureate or graduate degree in social work from a program in candidacy status with the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board, and has:

(1) applied for a license under section 148D.055;

(2) applied for a temporary license on a form provided by the board;

(3) submitted a form provided by the board authorizing the board to complete a criminal background check;

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(4) passed the applicable licensure examination provided for in section 148D.055; and

(5) not engaged in conduct that is in violation of the standards of practice specified in sections 148D.195 to 148D.240. If the applicant has engaged in conduct that is in violation of the standards of practice, the board may take action according to sections 148D.255 to 148D.270.

Sec. 54. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.060, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. Temporary license term. (a) A temporary license is valid until expiration, or until the board issues or denies the license pursuant to section 148D.055, or until the board revokes the temporary license, whichever comes first. A temporary license is nonrenewable.

(b) A temporary license issued pursuant to subdivision 1 or 2 expires after six months.

(c) A temporary license issued pursuant to subdivision 2a expires after 12 months but may be extended at the board's discretion upon a showing that the social work program remains in good standing with the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board. If the board receives notice from the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board that the social work program is not in good standing, or that the accreditation will not be granted to the social work program, the temporary license is immediately revoked.

~~(c)~~ (d) A temporary license issued pursuant to subdivision 3 2a expires after 12 months.

Sec. 55. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.060, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6. Licensee with temporary license; baccalaureate degree. A licensee with a temporary license who has provided evidence to the board that the licensee has completed the requirements for a baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by, or in candidacy status with, the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board may temporarily engage in social work practice except that a licensee with a temporary license may not engage in clinical social work practice.

Sec. 56. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.060, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. Licensee with temporary license; graduate degree. A licensee with a temporary license who has provided evidence to the board that the licensee has completed the requirements for a graduate degree in social work from a program accredited by, or in candidacy status with, the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board may temporarily engage in social work practice, including clinical practice.

Sec. 57. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.060, subdivision 13, is amended to read:

Subd. 13. Revocation of temporary license. The board may immediately revoke the temporary license of any licensee who violates any requirements of this section. The revocation must be made for cause~~, without notice or opportunity to be heard~~. A licensee whose temporary license is revoked must immediately return the temporary license to the board.

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Sec. 58. [148D.061] PROVISIONAL LICENSES.

Subdivision 1. Requirements for a provisional license. An applicant may be issued a provisional license if the applicant:

(1) was born in a foreign country;

(2) communicates in English as a second language;

(3) has failed the Association of Social Work Boards examination a second time in no more than 12 months after the date the applicant first failed the examination;

(4) has met all other requirements for licensure; and

(5) complies with the requirements of subdivisions 2 to 7.

Subd. 2. License term. (a) A provisional license is valid until expiration, or until the board issues or denies a license under section 148D.055, or until the board revokes the provisional license, whichever occurs first.

(b) A provisional license expires three years after the effective date of the license.

Subd. 3. Scope of practice. A licensee who is issued a provisional license must comply with the requirements of section 148D.050.

Subd. 4. Fee. A licensee who is issued a provisional license must pay the appropriate license fee specified in section 148D.180.

Subd. 5. Supervised practice requirements. A licensee who is issued a provisional license must document supervised practice as provided in section 148D.062. If a licensee issued a provisional license is granted a license under section 148D.055, the licensee must also meet the supervised practice requirements in sections 148D.100 to 148D.115. The supervised practice completed under a provisional license does not apply to this requirement.

Subd. 6. Evaluation by supervisor. (a) After being issued a provisional license under subdivision 1, the licensee must submit an evaluation by the licensee's supervisor every six months during the first 2,000 hours of social work practice. The evaluation must meet the requirements in section 148D.063. The supervisor must meet the eligibility requirements specified in section 148D.062.

(b) After completion of 2,000 hours of supervised social work practice, the licensee's supervisor must submit a final evaluation and attest to the applicant's ability to engage in the practice of social work safely and competently.

Subd. 7. Completion of requirements. Upon completion of the requirements for a provisional license under subdivisions 1 to 6, an applicant shall not practice social work in Minnesota except as provided in section 148D.065, unless licensed according to section 148D.055.

Subd. 8. Disciplinary or other action. The board may take action according to sections 148D.260 to 148D.270 if:

(1) the licensee's supervisor does not submit an evaluation as required by section 148D.062;

(2) an evaluation submitted according to section 148D.062 indicates that the licensee cannot practice social work competently and safely; or

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(3) the licensee does not comply with the requirements of subdivisions 1 to 7.

Subd. 9. Revocation of provisional license. The board may immediately revoke the provisional license of a licensee who violates any requirements of this section. The revocation must be made for cause. A licensee whose provisional license is revoked must immediately return the provisional license to the board.

Sec. 59. [148D.062] PROVISIONAL LICENSE; SUPERVISED PRACTICE.

Subdivision 1. Supervision required after licensure. After receiving a provisional license from the board, the licensee must obtain at least 37.5 hours of supervision according to the requirements of this section.

Subd. 2. Practice requirements. The supervision required by subdivision 1 must be obtained during the first 2,000 hours of social work practice after the effective date of the provisional license. At least three hours of supervision must be obtained during every 160 hours of practice.

Subd. 3. Types of supervision. (a) Twenty-five hours of supervision required by subdivision 1 must consist of one-on-one in-person supervision.

(b) Twelve and one-half hours of supervision must consist of one or more of the following types of supervision:

(1) in-person one-on-one supervision; or

(2) in-person group supervision.

Subd. 4. Supervisor requirements. (a) The supervision required by subdivision 1 must be provided by a supervisor who meets the requirements in section 148D.120 and has either:

(1) 5,000 hours experience engaged in authorized social work practice; or

(2) completed 30 hours of training in supervision, which may be satisfied by completing academic coursework in supervision or continuing education courses in supervision as defined in section 148D.010, subdivision 16.

(b) Supervision must be provided:

(1) if the supervisee is not engaged in clinical practice and the supervisee has a provisional license to practice as a licensed social worker, by a licenced social worker who has completed the supervised practice requirements;

(2) if the supervisee is not engaged in clinical practice and the supervisee has a provisional license to practice as a licensed graduate social worker, licensed independent social worker, or licensed independent clinical social worker, by:

(i) a licensed graduate social worker who has completed the supervised practice requirements;

(ii) a licensed independent social worker; or

(iii) a licensed independent clinical social worker;

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(3) if the supervisee is engaged in clinical practice and the supervisee has a provisional license to practice as a licensed graduate social worker, licensed independent social worker, or licensed independent clinical social worker, by a licensed independent clinical social worker; or

(4) by a supervisor who meets the requirements in section 148D.120, subdivision 2.

Subd. 5. Expiration. This section expires August 1, 2011.

Sec. 60. [148D.063] PROVISIONAL LICENSE; DOCUMENTATION OF SUPERVISION.

Subdivision 1. Supervision plan. (a) An applicant granted a provisional license must submit, on a form provided by the board, a supervision plan for meeting the supervision requirements in section 148D.062.

(b) The supervision plan must be submitted no later than 30 days after the licensee begins a social work practice position.

(c) The board may revoke a licensee's provisional license for failure to submit the supervision plan within 30 days after beginning a social work practice position.

(d) The supervision plan must include the following:

(1) the name of the supervisee, the name of the agency in which the supervisee is being supervised, and the supervisee's position title;

(2) the name and qualifications of the person providing the supervision;

(3) the number of hours of one-on-one in-person supervision and the number and type of additional hours of supervision to be completed by the supervisee;

(4) the supervisee's position description;

(5) a brief description of the supervision the supervisee will receive in the following content areas:

(i) clinical practice, if applicable;

(ii) development of professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(iii) practice methods;

(iv) authorized scope of practice;

(v) ensuring continuing competence; and

(vi) ethical standards of practice; and

(6) if applicable, a detailed description of the supervisee's clinical social work practice, addressing:

(i) the client population, the range of presenting issues, and the diagnoses;

(ii) the clinical modalities that were utilized; and

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(iii) the process utilized for determining clinical diagnoses, including the diagnostic instruments used and the role of the supervisee in the diagnostic process.

(e) The board must receive a revised supervision plan within 30 days of any of the following changes:

(1) the supervisee has a new supervisor;

(2) the supervisee begins a new social work position;

(3) the scope or content of the supervisee's social work practice changes substantially;

(4) the number of practice or supervision hours changes substantially; or

(5) the type of supervision changes as supervision is described in section 148D.062.

(f) The board may revoke a licensee's provisional license for failure to submit a revised supervision plan as required in paragraph (e).

(g) The board must approve the supervisor and the supervision plan.

Subd. 2. Evaluation. (a) When a supervisee submits an evaluation to the board according to section 148D.061, subdivision 6, the supervisee and supervisor must provide the following information on a form provided by the board:

(1) the name of the supervisee, the name of the agency in which the supervisee is being supervised, and the supervisee's position title;

(2) the name and qualifications of the supervisor;

(3) the number of hours and dates of each type of supervision completed;

(4) the supervisee's position description;

(5) a declaration that the supervisee has not engaged in conduct in violation of the standards of practice in sections 148D.195 to 148D.240;

(6) a declaration that the supervisee has practiced competently and ethically according to professional social work knowledge, skills, and values; and

(7) on a form provided by the board, an evaluation of the licensee's practice in the following areas:

(i) development of professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(ii) practice methods;

(iii) authorized scope of practice;

(iv) ensuring continuing competence;

(v) ethical standards of practice; and

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(vi) clinical practice, if applicable.

(b) The information provided on the evaluation form must demonstrate that the supervisee has met or has made progress on meeting the applicable supervised practice requirements.

Subd. 3. Alternative verification of supervised practice. Notwithstanding the requirements of subdivision 2, the board may accept alternative verification of supervised practice if a supervisee demonstrates that the supervisee is unable to locate a former supervisor to provide the required information.

Sec. 61. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.120, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Alternate supervisors. (a) The board may approve an alternate supervisor if:

(1) the board determines that supervision is not obtainable pursuant to paragraph (b);

(2) the licensee requests in the supervision plan submitted pursuant to section 148D.062, subdivision 1, or 148D.125, subdivision 1, that an alternate supervisor conduct the supervision;

(3) the licensee describes the proposed supervision and the name and qualifications of the proposed alternate supervisor; and

(4) the requirements of paragraph (d) are met.

(b) The board may determine that supervision is not obtainable if:

(1) the licensee provides documentation as an attachment to the supervision plan submitted pursuant to section 148D.062, subdivision 1, or 148D.125, subdivision 1, that the licensee has conducted a thorough search for a supervisor meeting the applicable licensure requirements specified in sections 148D.100 to 148D.115;

(2) the licensee demonstrates to the board's satisfaction that the search was unsuccessful; and

(3) the licensee describes the extent of the search and the names and locations of the persons and organizations contacted.

(1) obtaining a supervisor who meets the requirements of subdivision 1 would present the licensee with a financial hardship;

(2) the licensee is unable to obtain a supervisor who meets the requirements of subdivision 1 within the licensee's agency or organization and the agency or organization will not allow outside supervision; or

(3) the specialized nature of the licensee's practice requires supervision from a practitioner other than an individual licensed as a social worker.

(d) An alternate supervisor must:

(1) be an unlicensed social worker who is employed in, and provides the supervision in, a setting exempt from licensure by section 148D.065, and who has qualifications equivalent to the applicable requirements specified in sections 148D.100 to 148D.115; or

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(2) be a licensed marriage and family therapist or a mental health professional as established by section 245.462, subdivision 18, or 245.4871, subdivision 27, or an equivalent mental health professional, as determined by the board, who is licensed or credentialed by a state, territorial, provincial, or foreign licensing agency.

In order to qualify to provide clinical supervision of a licensed graduate social worker or licensed independent social worker engaged in clinical practice, the alternate supervisor must be a mental health professional as established by section 245.462, subdivision 18, or 245.4871, subdivision 27, or an equivalent mental health professional, as determined by the board, who is licensed or credentialed by a state, territorial, provincial, or foreign licensing agency.

Sec. 62. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 148D.125, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Supervision plan. (a) A social worker must submit, on a form provided by the board, a supervision plan for meeting the supervision requirements specified in sections 148D.100 to 148D.120.

(b) The supervision plan must be submitted no later than 90 days after the licensee begins a social work practice position after becoming licensed.

(c) For failure to submit the supervision plan within 90 days after beginning a social work practice position, a licensee must pay the supervision plan late fee specified in section 148D.180 when the licensee applies for license renewal.

(d) A license renewal application submitted pursuant to ~~paragraph (a)~~ section 148D.070, subdivision 3, must not be approved unless the board has received a supervision plan.

(e) The supervision plan must include the following:

(1) the name of the supervisee, the name of the agency in which the supervisee is being supervised, and the supervisee's position title;

(2) the name and qualifications of the person providing the supervision;

(3) the number of hours of one-on-one in-person supervision and the number and type of additional hours of supervision to be completed by the supervisee;

(4) the supervisee's position description;

(5) a brief description of the supervision the supervisee will receive in the following content areas:

(i) clinical practice, if applicable;

(ii) development of professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(iii) practice methods;

(iv) authorized scope of practice;

(v) ensuring continuing competence; and

(vi) ethical standards of practice; and

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(6) if applicable, a detailed description of the supervisee's clinical social work practice, addressing:

(i) the client population, the range of presenting issues, and the diagnoses;

(ii) the clinical modalities that were utilized; and

(iii) the process utilized for determining clinical diagnoses, including the diagnostic instruments used and the role of the supervisee in the diagnostic process. An applicant for licensure as a licensed professional clinical counselor must present evidence of completion of a degree equivalent to that required in section 148B.5301, subdivision 1, clause (3).

(f) The board must receive a revised supervision plan within 90 days of any of the following changes:

(1) the supervisee has a new supervisor;

(2) the supervisee begins a new social work position;

(3) the scope or content of the supervisee's social work practice changes substantially;

(4) the number of practice or supervision hours changes substantially; or

(5) the type of supervision changes as supervision is described in section 148D.100, subdivision 3, or 148D.105, subdivision 3, or as required in section 148D.115, subdivision 4.

(g) For failure to submit a revised supervision plan as required in paragraph (f), a supervisee must pay the supervision plan late fee specified in section 148D.180, when the supervisee applies for license renewal.

(h) The board must approve the supervisor and the supervision plan.

Sec. 63. [148E.001] CITATION.

This chapter may be cited as the "Minnesota Board of Social Work Practice Act."

Sec. 64. [148E.010] DEFINITIONS.

Subdivision 1. Scope. For the purpose of this chapter, the terms in this section have the meanings given.

Subd. 2. Applicant. "Applicant" means a person who submits an application to the board for a new license, a license renewal, a change in license, an inactive license, reactivation of a license, or a voluntary termination.

Subd. 3. Application. "Application" means an application to the board for a new license, a license renewal, a change in license, an inactive license, reactivation of a license, or voluntary termination.

Subd. 4. Board. "Board" means the Board of Social Work created under section 148E.025.

Subd. 5. Client. "Client" means an individual, couple, family, group, community, or organization that receives or has received social work services as described in subdivision 11.

Subd. 6. Clinical practice. "Clinical practice" means applying professional social work knowledge, skills, and values in the differential diagnosis and treatment of psychosocial function, disability, or impairment, including addictions and emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders. Treatment includes a plan based on a differential

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diagnosis. Treatment may include, but is not limited to, the provision of psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups across the life span. Clinical social workers may also provide the services described in subdivision 11.

Subd. 7. Clinical supervision. "Clinical supervision" means supervision as defined in subdivision 18 of a social worker engaged in clinical practice as defined in subdivision 6.

Subd. 8. Graduate degree. "Graduate degree" means a master's 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 accreditation body designated by the board; or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.

Subd. 9. Intern. "Intern" means a student in field placement working under the supervision or direction of a social worker.

Subd. 10. Person-in-environment perspective. "Person-in-environment perspective" means viewing human behavior, development, and function in the context of one or more of the following: the environment, social functioning, mental health, and physical health.

Subd. 11. Practice of social work. "Practice of social work" means working to maintain, restore, or improve behavioral, cognitive, emotional, mental, or social functioning of clients, in a manner that applies accepted professional social work knowledge, skills, and values, including the person-in-environment perspective, by providing in person or through telephone, video conferencing, or electronic means one or more of the social work services described in clauses (1) to (3). Social work services may address conditions that impair or limit behavioral, cognitive, emotional, mental, or social functioning. Such conditions include, but are not limited to, the following: abuse and neglect of children or vulnerable adults, addictions, developmental disorders, disabilities, discrimination, illness, injuries, poverty, and trauma. Social work services include:

(1) providing assessment and intervention through direct contact with clients, developing a plan based on information from an assessment, and providing services which include, but are not limited to, assessment, case management, client-centered advocacy, client education, consultation, counseling, crisis intervention, and referral;

(2) providing for the direct or indirect benefit of clients through administrative, educational, policy, or research services including, but not limited to:

(i) advocating for policies, programs, or services to improve the well-being of clients;

(ii) conducting research related to social work services;

(iii) developing and administering programs which provide social work services;

(iv) engaging in community organization to address social problems through planned collective action;

(v) supervising individuals who provide social work services to clients;

(vi) supervising social workers in order to comply with the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125; and

(vii) teaching professional social work knowledge, skills, and values to students; and

(3) engaging in clinical practice.

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Subd. 12. Professional name. "Professional name" means the name a licensed social worker uses in making representations of the social worker's professional status to the public and which has been designated to the board in writing according to section 148E.090.

Subd. 13. Professional social work knowledge, skills, and values. "Professional social work knowledge, skills, and values" means the knowledge, skills, and values taught in programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board; or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university. Professional social work knowledge, skills, and values include, but are not limited to, principles of person-in-environment and the values, principles, and standards described in the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers.

Subd. 14. Sexual conduct. "Sexual conduct" means any physical contact or conduct that may be reasonably interpreted as sexual, or any oral, written, electronic, or other communication that suggests engaging in physical contact or conduct that may be reasonably interpreted as sexual.

Subd. 15. Social worker. "Social worker" means an individual who:

(1) is licensed as a social worker; or

(2) has obtained a social work degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board and engages in the practice of social work.

Subd. 16. Student. "Student" means an individual who is taught professional social work knowledge, skills, and values in a program that has been accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board.

Subd. 17. Supervisee. "Supervisee" means an individual provided evaluation and supervision or direction by a social worker.

Subd. 18. Supervision. "Supervision" means a professional relationship between a supervisor and a social worker in which the supervisor provides evaluation and direction of the services provided by the social worker to promote competent and ethical services to clients through the continuing development of the social worker's knowledge and application of accepted professional social work knowledge, skills, and values.

Sec. 65. [148E.015] SCOPE.

This chapter applies to all applicants and licensees, all persons who use the title social worker, and all persons in or out of this state who provide social work services to clients who reside in this state unless there are specific applicable exemptions provided by law.

Sec. 66. [148E.020] CHAPTER 214.

Chapter 214 applies to the Board of Social Work unless superseded by this chapter.

Sec. 67. [148E.025] BOARD OF SOCIAL WORK.

Subdivision 1. Creation. The Board of Social Work consists of 15 members appointed by the governor. The members are:

(1) ten social workers licensed according to section 148E.055; and

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(2) five public members as defined in section 214.02.

Subd. 2. Qualifications of board members. (a) All social worker members must have engaged in the practice of social work in Minnesota for at least one year during the ten years preceding their appointments.

(b) Five social worker members must be licensed social workers. The other five members must be a licensed graduate social worker, a licensed independent social worker, or a licensed independent clinical social worker.

(c) Eight social worker members must be engaged at the time of their appointment in the practice of social work in Minnesota in the following settings:

(1) one member must be engaged in the practice of social work in a county agency;

(2) one member must be engaged in the practice of social work in a state agency;

(3) one member must be engaged in the practice of social work in an elementary, middle, or secondary school;

(4) one member must be employed in a hospital or nursing home licensed under chapter 144 or 144A;

(5) two members must be engaged in the practice of social work in a private agency;

(6) one member must be engaged in the practice of social work in a clinical social work setting; and

(7) one member must be an educator engaged in regular teaching duties at a program of social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education or a similar accreditation body designated by the board.

(d) At the time of their appointments, at least six members must reside outside of the seven-county metropolitan area.

(e) At the time of their appointments, at least five members must be persons with expertise in communities of color.

Subd. 3. Officers. The board must annually elect from its membership a chair, vice-chair, and secretary-treasurer.

Subd. 4. Bylaws. The board must adopt bylaws to govern its proceedings.

Subd. 5. Executive director. The board must appoint and employ an executive director who is not a member of the board. The employment of the executive director shall be subject to the terms described in section 214.04, subdivision 2a.

Sec. 68. [148E.030] DUTIES OF THE BOARD.

Subdivision 1. Duties. The board must perform the duties necessary to promote and protect the public health, safety, and welfare through the licensure and regulation of persons who practice social work in this state. These duties include, but are not limited to:

(1) establishing the qualifications and procedures for individuals to be licensed as social workers;

(2) establishing standards of practice for social workers;

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(3) holding examinations or contracting with the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board to hold examinations to assess applicants' qualifications;

(4) issuing licenses to qualified individuals according to sections 148E.055 and 148E.060;

(5) taking disciplinary, adversarial, corrective, or other action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when an individual violates the requirements of this chapter;

(6) assessing fees according to sections 148E.175 and 148E.180; and

(7) educating social workers and the public on the requirements of the board.

Subd. 2. Rules. The board may adopt and enforce rules to carry out the duties specified in subdivision 1.

Sec. 69. [148E.035] VARIANCES.

If the effect of a requirement according to this chapter is unreasonable, impossible to execute, absurd, or would impose an extreme hardship on a licensee, the board may grant a variance if the variance is consistent with promoting and protecting the public health, safety, and welfare. A variance must not be granted for core licensing standards such as substantive educational and examination requirements.

Sec. 70. [148E.040] IMMUNITY.

Board members, board employees, and persons engaged on behalf of the board are immune from civil liability for any actions, transactions, or publications in the lawful execution of or relating to their duties under this chapter.

Sec. 71. [148E.045] CONTESTED CASE HEARING.

An applicant or a licensee who is the subject of a disciplinary or adversarial action by the board according to this chapter may request a contested case hearing under sections 14.57 to 14.62. An applicant or a licensee who desires to request a contested case hearing must submit a written request to the board within 90 days after the date on which the board mailed the notification of the adverse action, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.

Sec. 72. [148E.050] LICENSING; SCOPE OF PRACTICE.

Subdivision 1. Requirements. The practice of social work must comply with the requirements of subdivision 2, 3, 4, or 5.

Subd. 2. Licensed social worker. A licensed social worker may engage in social work practice except that a licensed social worker must not engage in clinical practice.

Subd. 3. Licensed graduate social worker. A licensed graduate social worker may engage in social work practice except that a licensed graduate social worker must not engage in clinical practice except under the supervision of a licensed independent clinical social worker or an alternate supervisor according to section 148E.120.

Subd. 4. Licensed independent social worker. A licensed independent social worker may engage in social work practice except that a licensed independent social worker must not engage in clinical practice except under the supervision of a licensed independent clinical social worker or an alternate supervisor according to section 148E.120.

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Subd. 5. Licensed independent clinical social worker. A licensed independent clinical social worker may engage in social work practice, including clinical practice.

Sec. 73. [148E.055] LICENSE REQUIREMENTS.

Subdivision 1. License required. (a) In order to practice social work, an individual must have a social work license under this section or section 148E.060, except when the individual is exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

(b) Individuals who teach professional social work knowledge, skills, and values to students and who have a social work degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board must have a social work license under this section or section 148E.060, except when the individual is exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

Subd. 2. Qualifications for licensure by examination as a licensed social worker. (a) To be licensed as a licensed social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(2) has passed the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement according to subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board. The examination may be taken prior to completing degree requirements;

(3) has submitted a completed, signed application form provided by the board, including the applicable application fee specified in section 148E.180. For applications submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board;

(4) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check according to subdivision 8;

(5) has paid the applicable license fee specified in section 148E.180; and

(6) has 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) An application that is not completed and signed, or that is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(c) A licensee granted a license by the board according to paragraph (a) must meet the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125. If a licensee does not meet the supervised practice requirements, the board may take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270.

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(e) Within one year of the time the board receives an application for licensure, the applicant must meet all the requirements specified in paragraph (a) and must provide all of the information requested by the board according to paragraph (d). If within one year the applicant does not meet all the requirements, or does not provide all of the information requested, the applicant is considered ineligible and the application for licensure must be closed.

(3) provides to the board letters of recommendation from two licensed social workers attesting to the applicant's ability to practice social work competently and ethically according to professional social work knowledge, skills, and values.

(h) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148E.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, and the applicant has failed the bachelors or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

Subd. 3. Qualifications for licensure by examination as licensed graduate social worker. (a) To be licensed as a licensed graduate social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(2) has passed the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement according to section 148E.055, subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board. The examination may be taken prior to completing degree requirements;

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(4) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check according to subdivision 8;

(5) has paid the applicable license fee specified in section 148E.180; and

(b) An application which is not completed and signed, or which is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(e) Within one year of the time the board receives an application for licensure, the applicant must meet all the requirements specified in paragraph (a) and must provide all of the information requested by the board according to paragraph (d). If within one year the applicant does not meet all the requirements, or does not provide all of the information requested, the applicant is considered ineligible and the application for licensure must be closed.

(1) meets all requirements specified in paragraphs (a) to (e) other than passing the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board;

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(h) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148E.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, and the applicant has failed the masters or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

Subd. 4. Licensure by examination; licensed independent social worker. (a) To be licensed as a licensed independent social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(2) has practiced social work as defined in section 148E.010, and has met the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125;

(3) has passed the advanced generalist or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement according to subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board;

(4) has submitted a completed, signed application form provided by the board, including the applicable application fee specified in section 148E.180. For applications submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board;

(5) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check according to subdivision 8;

(6) has paid the applicable license fee specified in section 148E.180; and

(7) has 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) An application which is not completed and signed, or which is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(c) A licensed independent social worker who practices clinical social work must meet the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125. If a licensee does not meet the supervised practice requirements, the board may take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270.

(e) Within one year of the time the board receives an application for licensure, the applicant must meet all the requirements specified in paragraph (a) and must provide all of the information requested by the board according to paragraph (d). If within one year the applicant does not meet all the requirements, or does not provide all of the information requested, the applicant is considered ineligible and the application for licensure must be closed.

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(h) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148E.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, except as provided in section 148E.065, and the applicant has failed the advanced generalist or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

Subd. 5. Licensure by examination; licensed independent clinical social worker. (a) To be licensed as a licensed independent clinical social worker, an applicant for licensure by examination must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(2) has completed 360 clock hours (one semester credit hour = 15 clock hours) in the following clinical knowledge areas:

(i) 108 clock hours (30 percent) in differential diagnosis and biopsychosocial assessment including normative development and psychopathology across the life span;

(ii) 36 clock hours (ten percent) in assessment-based clinical treatment planning with measurable goals;

(iii) 108 clock hours (30 percent) in clinical intervention methods informed by research and current standards of practice;

(iv) 18 clock hours (five percent) in evaluation methodologies;

(v) 72 clock hours (20 percent) in social work values and ethics, including cultural context, diversity, and social policy; and

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(vi) 18 clock hours (five percent) in culturally specific clinical assessment and intervention;

(3) has practiced clinical social work as defined in section 148E.010, including both diagnosis and treatment, and has met the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125;

(4) has passed the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. Unless an applicant applies for licensure by endorsement according to subdivision 7, an examination is not valid if it was taken and passed eight or more years prior to submitting a completed, signed application form provided by the board;

(5) has submitted a completed, signed application form provided by the board, including the applicable application fee specified in section 148E.180. For applications submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board;

(6) has submitted the criminal background check fee and a form provided by the board authorizing a criminal background check according to subdivision 8;

(7) has paid the license fee specified in section 148E.180; and

(8) has 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) The requirement in paragraph (a), clause (2), may be satisfied through: (1) a graduate degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar accreditation body designated by the board; or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university; (2) postgraduate coursework; or (3) up to 90 continuing education hours. The continuing education must have a course description available for public review and must include a posttest. Compliance with this requirement must be documented on a form provided by the board. The board may conduct audits of the information submitted in order to determine compliance with the requirements of this section.

(c) An application which is not completed and signed, or which is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(e) Within one year of the time the board receives an application for licensure, the applicant must meet all the requirements specified in paragraph (a) and must provide all of the information requested by the board according to paragraph (d). If within one year the applicant does not meet all the requirements, or does not provide all of the information requested, the applicant is considered ineligible and the application for licensure must be closed.

(f) Except as provided in paragraph (g), an applicant may not take more than three times the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board. An applicant must receive a passing score on the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board no later than 18 months after the first time the applicant failed the examination.

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(g) Notwithstanding paragraph (f), the board may allow an applicant to take, for a fourth or subsequent time, the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board if the applicant:

(1) meets all requirements specified in paragraphs (a) to (e) other than passing the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board;

(h) An individual must not practice social work until the individual passes the examination and receives a social work license under this section or section 148E.060. If the board has reason to believe that an applicant may be practicing social work without a license, and the applicant has failed the clinical or equivalent examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the board may notify the applicant's employer that the applicant is not licensed as a social worker.

Subd. 6. Degrees from outside United States or Canada. If an applicant receives a degree from a program outside the United States or Canada that is not accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, or a similar examination body designated by the board, the degree does not fulfill the requirements specified in subdivision 2, paragraph (a), clause (1); 3, paragraph (a), clause (1); 4, paragraph (a), clause (1); or 5, paragraph (a), clause (1), unless the Council on Social Work Education or a similar accreditation body designated by the board has determined through the council's international equivalency determination service that the degree earned is equivalent to the degree required.

Subd. 7. Licensure by endorsement. (a) An applicant for licensure by endorsement must hold a current license or credential to practice social work in another jurisdiction.

(b) An applicant for licensure by endorsement who meets the qualifications of paragraph (a) and who demonstrates to the satisfaction of the board that the applicant passed the examination administered by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board for the applicable license in Minnesota is not required to retake the licensing examination.

(c) An application for licensure by endorsement must meet the applicable license requirements specified in subdivisions 1 to 6, except as provided in paragraph (d), and submit the licensure by endorsement application fee specified in section 148E.180.

(d) The following requirements apply:

(1) An applicant for licensure by endorsement who is applying for licensure as a licensed social worker must meet the requirements specified in subdivision 2.

(2) An applicant for licensure by endorsement who is applying for licensure as a licensed graduate social worker must meet the requirements specified in subdivision 3.

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(3) An applicant for licensure by endorsement who is applying for licensure as a licensed independent social worker is not required to demonstrate that the applicant has obtained 100 hours of supervision as specified in section 148E.110, subdivision 1, provided that the applicant has engaged in authorized social work practice for a minimum of 4,000 hours in another jurisdiction.

(4) An applicant for licensure by endorsement as a licensed independent clinical social worker (i) is not required to meet the license requirements specified in subdivision 5, paragraph (a), clause (2), and (ii) is not required to demonstrate that the applicant has obtained 200 hours of supervision as specified in section 148E.115, subdivision 1, provided that the applicant has engaged in authorized clinical social work practice for a minimum of 4,000 hours in another jurisdiction.

Subd. 8. Criminal background checks. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), an initial license application must be accompanied by:

(1) a form provided by the board authorizing the board to complete a criminal background check; and

(2) the criminal background check fee specified by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

Criminal background check fees collected by the board must be used to reimburse the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for the criminal background checks.

(b) An applicant who has previously submitted a license application authorizing the board to complete a criminal background check is exempt from the requirement specified in paragraph (a).

(c) If a criminal background check indicates that an applicant has engaged in criminal behavior, the board may take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270.

Subd. 9. Effective date. The effective date of an initial license is the day on which the board receives the applicable license fee from an applicant approved for licensure.

Subd. 10. Expiration date. The expiration date of an initial license is the last day of the licensee's birth month in the second calendar year following the effective date of the initial license.

Subd. 11. Change in license. (a) A licensee who changes from a licensed social worker to a licensed graduate social worker, or from a licensed graduate social worker to a licensed independent social worker, or from a licensed graduate social worker or licensed independent social worker to a licensed independent clinical social worker, must pay the prorated share of the fee for the new license.

(b) The effective date of the new license is the day on which the board receives the applicable license fee from an applicant approved for the new license.

(c) The expiration date of the new license is the same date as the expiration date of the license held by the licensee prior to the change in the license.

Sec. 74. [148E.060] TEMPORARY LICENSES.

Subdivision 1. Students and other persons not currently licensed in another jurisdiction. The board may issue a temporary license to practice social work to an applicant who is not licensed or credentialed to practice social work in any jurisdiction but has:

(1) applied for a license under section 148E.055;

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(2) applied for a temporary license on a form provided by the board;

(3) submitted a form provided by the board authorizing the board to complete a criminal background check;

(4) passed the applicable licensure examination provided for in section 148E.055;

(5) 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 accreditation body designated by the board, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university; and

(6) 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.

Subd. 2. Emergency situations and persons currently licensed in another jurisdiction. 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 accreditation 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.

Subd. 3. Teachers. The board may issue a temporary license to practice social work to an applicant whose permanent residence is outside the United States, who is teaching social work at an academic institution in Minnesota for a period not to exceed 12 months, who may or may not have applied for a license under section 148E.055, and who 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) attested on a form provided by the board that the applicant has completed the requirements for a baccalaureate or graduate degree in social work; and

(4) has 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.

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Subd. 4. Temporary license application fee. An applicant for a temporary license must pay the application fee specified in section 148E.180 plus the required fee for the cost of the criminal background check. Only one fee for the cost of the criminal background check must be submitted when the applicant is applying for both a temporary license and a license under section 148E.055.

Subd. 5. Temporary license term. (a) A temporary license is valid until expiration, or until the board issues or denies the license according to section 148E.055, or until the board revokes the temporary license, whichever comes first. A temporary license is nonrenewable.

(b) A temporary license issued according to subdivision 1 or 2 expires after six months.

Subd. 6. Licensee with temporary license; baccalaureate degree. A licensee with a temporary license who has provided evidence to the board that the licensee has completed the requirements for a baccalaureate 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 accreditation body designated by the board may temporarily engage in social work practice except that a licensee with a temporary license may not engage in clinical social work practice.

Subd. 7. Licensee with temporary license; graduate degree. A licensee with a temporary license who has provided evidence to the board that the licensee has completed the requirements for a 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 accreditation body designated by the board may temporarily engage in social work practice, including clinical practice.

Subd. 8. Supervision requirements. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), an applicant who is not currently licensed or credentialed to practice social work in another jurisdiction and who obtains a temporary license may practice social work only under the supervision of an individual licensed as a social worker who is eligible to provide supervision under sections 148E.100 to 148E.125. Before the applicant is approved for licensure, the applicant's supervisor must attest to the board's satisfaction that the applicant has practiced social work under supervision. This supervision applies toward the supervision required after licensure.

(b) If an applicant is currently licensed or credentialed to practice social work in another jurisdiction, and receives a temporary license according to subdivision 3, the requirements specified in paragraph (a) do not apply. However, if an applicant with a temporary license chooses to practice social work under supervision, the supervision applies to the requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125.

Subd. 9. Prohibition on practice. An applicant for a temporary license must not practice social work in Minnesota, except as provided in section 148E.065, until the applicant has been granted a temporary license.

Subd. 10. Representation of professional status. In making representations of professional status to the public, a licensee with a temporary license must state that the licensee has a temporary license.

Subd. 11. Standards of practice. A licensee with a temporary license must conduct all professional activities as a social worker according to the requirements of sections 148E.195 to 148E.240.

Subd. 12. Ineligibility. An applicant who is currently practicing social work in Minnesota in a setting that is not exempt under section 148E.065 at the time of application is ineligible for a temporary license.

Subd. 13. Revocation of temporary license. The board may immediately revoke the temporary license of any licensee who violates any requirements of this section. The revocation must be made for cause, without notice or opportunity to be heard. A licensee whose temporary license is revoked must immediately return the temporary license to the board.

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Sec. 75. [148E.065] EXEMPTIONS.

Subdivision 1. Other professionals. Nothing in this chapter may be construed to prevent members of other professions or occupations from performing functions for which they are qualified or licensed. This exception includes but is not limited to: licensed physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, licensed psychologists, psychological practitioners, probation officers, members of the clergy and Christian Science practitioners, attorneys, marriage and family therapists, alcohol and drug counselors, professional counselors, school counselors, and registered occupational therapists or certified occupational therapist assistants. These persons must not, however, hold themselves out to the public by any title or description stating or implying that they are engaged in the practice of social work, or that they are licensed to engage in the practice of social work. Persons engaged in the practice of social work are not exempt from the board's jurisdiction solely by the use of one of the titles in this subdivision.

Subd. 2. Students. An internship, externship, or any other social work experience that is required for the completion of an accredited program of social work does not constitute the practice of social work under this chapter.

Subd. 3. Geographic waiver. A geographic waiver may be granted by the board on a case-by-case basis to agencies with special regional hiring problems. The waiver is for the purpose of permitting agencies to hire individuals who do not meet the qualifications of section 148E.055 or 148E.060 to practice social work.

Subd. 4. City, county, and state agency social workers. The licensure of city, county, and state agency social workers is voluntary. City, county, and state agencies employing social workers are not required to employ licensed social workers.

Subd. 5. Tribes and private nonprofit agencies; voluntary licensure. The licensure of social workers who are employed by federally recognized tribes, or by private nonprofit agencies whose primary service focus addresses ethnic minority populations, and who are themselves members of ethnic minority populations within those agencies, is voluntary.

Sec. 76. [148E.070] LICENSE RENEWALS.

Subdivision 1. License renewal term. (a) If a license is renewed, the license must be renewed for a two-year renewal term. The renewal term is the period from the effective date of an initial or renewed license to the expiration date of the license.

(b) The effective date of a renewed license is the day following the expiration date of the expired license.

(c) The expiration date of a renewed license is the last day of the licensee's birth month in the second calendar year following the effective date of the renewed license.

Subd. 2. Mailing license renewal notices. The board must mail a notice for license renewal to a licensee at least 45 days before the expiration date of the license. Mailing the notice by United States mail to the licensee's last known mailing address constitutes valid mailing. Failure to receive the renewal notice does not relieve a licensee of the obligation to renew a license and to pay the renewal fee.

Subd. 3. Submitting license renewal applications. (a) In order to renew a license, a licensee must submit:

(1) a completed, signed application for license renewal; and

(2) the applicable renewal fee specified in section 148E.180.

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The completed, signed application and renewal fee must be received by the board prior to midnight of the day of the license expiration date. For renewals submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board.

(b) An application which is not completed and signed, or which is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void.

(c) The completed, signed application must include documentation that the licensee has met the continuing education requirements specified in sections 148E.130 to 148E.170 and, if applicable, the supervised practice requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125.

(d) By submitting a renewal application, an applicant authorizes the board to:

(1) investigate any information provided or requested in the application. The board may request that the applicant provide additional information, verification, or documentation;

(2) conduct an audit to determine if the applicant has met the continuing education requirements specified in sections 148E.130 to 148E.170; and

(3) if applicable, conduct an audit to determine whether the applicant has met the supervision requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125.

(e) If a licensee's application for license renewal meets the requirements specified in paragraph (a), the licensee may continue to practice after the license expiration date until the board approves or denies the application.

Subd. 4. Renewal late fee. An application that is received after the license expiration date must be accompanied by the renewal late fee specified in section 148E.180 in addition to the applicable renewal fee. The application, renewal fee, and renewal late fee must be received by the board within 60 days of the license expiration date, or the license automatically expires.

Subd. 5. Expired license. (a) If an application does not meet the requirements specified in subdivisions 3 and 4, the license automatically expires. A licensee whose license has expired may reactivate a license by meeting the requirements in section 148E.080 or be relicensed by meeting the requirements specified in section 148E.055.

(b) The board may take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 based on a licensee's conduct before the expiration of the license.

(c) An expired license may be reactivated within one year of the expiration date specified in section 148E.080. After one year of the expiration date, an individual may apply for a new license according to section 148E.055.

Sec. 77. [148E.075] INACTIVE LICENSES.

Subdivision 1. Inactive status. (a) A licensee qualifies for inactive status under either of the circumstances described in paragraph (b) or (c).

(b) A licensee qualifies for inactive status when the licensee is granted temporary leave from active practice. A licensee qualifies for temporary leave from active practice if the licensee demonstrates to the satisfaction of the board that the licensee is not engaged in the practice of social work in any setting, including settings in which social workers are exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065. A licensee who is granted temporary leave from active practice may reactivate the license according to section 148E.080.

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(c) A licensee qualifies for inactive status when a licensee is granted an emeritus license. A licensee qualifies for an emeritus license if the licensee demonstrates to the satisfaction of the board that:

(1) the licensee is retired from social work practice; and

(2) the licensee is not engaged in the practice of social work in any setting, including settings in which social workers are exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

A licensee who possesses an emeritus license may reactivate the license according to section 148E.080.

Subd. 2. Application. A licensee may apply for inactive status:

(1) at any time by submitting an application for a temporary leave from active practice or for an emeritus license; or

(2) as an alternative to applying for the renewal of a license by so recording on the application for license renewal and submitting the completed, signed application to the board.

An application that is not completed or signed, or that is not accompanied by the correct fee, must be returned to the applicant, along with any fee submitted, and is void. For applications submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board.

Subd. 3. Fee. (a) Regardless of when the application for inactive status is submitted, the temporary leave or emeritus license fee specified in section 148E.180, whichever is applicable, must accompany the application. A licensee who is approved for inactive status before the license expiration date is not entitled to receive a refund for any portion of the license or renewal fee.

(b) If an application for temporary leave is received after the license expiration date, the licensee must pay a renewal late fee as specified in section 148E.180 in addition to the temporary leave fee.

Subd. 4. Time limits for temporary leaves. A licensee may maintain an inactive license on temporary leave for no more than five consecutive years. If a licensee does not apply for reactivation within 60 days following the end of the consecutive five-year period, the license automatically expires.

Subd. 5. Time limits for emeritus license. A licensee with an emeritus license may not apply for reactivation according to section 148E.080 after five years following the granting of the emeritus license. However, after five years following the granting of the emeritus license, an individual may apply for new licensure according to section 148E.055.

Subd. 6. Prohibition on practice. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), a licensee whose license is inactive must not practice, attempt to practice, offer to practice, or advertise or hold out as authorized to practice social work.

(b) The board may grant a variance to the requirements of paragraph (a) if a licensee on inactive status provides emergency social work services. A variance is granted only if the board provides the variance in writing to the licensee. The board may impose conditions or restrictions on the variance.

Subd. 7. Representations of professional status. In making representations of professional status to the public, a licensee whose license is inactive must state that the license is inactive and that the licensee cannot practice social work.

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Subd. 8. Disciplinary or other action. The board may resolve any pending complaints against a licensee before approving an application for inactive status. The board may take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 against a licensee whose license is inactive based on conduct occurring before the license is inactive or conduct occurring while the license is inactive.

Sec. 78. [148E.080] REACTIVATIONS.

Subdivision 1. Mailing notices to licensees on temporary leave. The board must mail a notice for reactivation to a licensee on temporary leave at least 45 days before the expiration date of the license according to section 148E.075, subdivision 4. Mailing the notice by United States mail to the licensee's last known mailing address constitutes valid mailing. Failure to receive the reactivation notice does not relieve a licensee of the obligation to comply with the provisions of this section to reactivate a license.

Subd. 2. Reactivation from a temporary leave or emeritus status. To reactivate a license from a temporary leave or emeritus status, a licensee must do the following within the time period specified in section 148E.075, subdivisions 4 and 5:

(1) complete an application form specified by the board;

(2) document compliance with the continuing education requirements specified in subdivision 4;

(3) submit a supervision plan, if required;

(4) pay the reactivation of an inactive licensee fee specified in section 148E.180; and

(5) pay the wall certificate fee according to section 148E.095, subdivision 1, paragraph (b) or (c), if the licensee needs a duplicate license.

Subd. 3. Reactivation of an expired license. To reactivate an expired license, a licensee must do the following within one year of the expiration date:

(1) complete an application form specified by the board;

(2) document compliance with the continuing education requirements that were in effect at the time the license expired;

(3) document compliance with the supervision requirements, if applicable, that were in effect at the time the license expired; and

(4) pay the reactivation of an expired license fee specified in section 148E.180.

Subd. 4. Continuing education requirements. (a) A licensee who is on temporary leave or who has an emeritus license must obtain the continuing education hours that would be required if the license was active. At the time of reactivation, the licensee must document compliance with the continuing education requirements specified in sections 148E.130 to 148E.170.

(b) A licensee applying for reactivation according to subdivision 2 or 3 may apply for a variance to the continuing education requirements according to sections 148E.130 to 148E.170.

Subd. 5. Reactivation of a voluntarily terminated license. To reactivate a voluntarily terminated license, a licensee must do the following within one year of the date the voluntary termination takes effect:

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(1) complete an application form specified by the board;

(2) document compliance with the continuing education requirements that were in effect at the time the license was voluntarily terminated;

(3) document compliance with the supervision requirements, if applicable, that were in effect at the time the license was voluntarily terminated; and

(4) pay the reactivation of an expired or voluntarily terminated license fee specified in section 148E.180.

Sec. 79. [148E.085] VOLUNTARY TERMINATIONS.

Subdivision 1. Requests for voluntary termination. (a) A licensee may request voluntary termination of a license if the licensee demonstrates to the satisfaction of the board that the licensee is not engaged in the practice of social work in any setting except settings in which social workers are exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

(b) A licensee may apply for voluntary termination:

(1) at any time by submitting an application; or

(2) as an alternative to applying for the renewal of a license by so recording on the application for license renewal and submitting the completed, signed application to the board.

For applications submitted electronically, a "signed application" means providing an attestation as specified by the board. An application that is not completed and signed must be returned to the applicant and is void.

(c) The board may resolve any pending complaints against a licensee before approving a request for voluntary termination.

Subd. 2. Application for new licensure. A licensee who has voluntarily terminated a license may not reactivate the license after one year following the date the voluntary termination takes effect. However, a licensee who has voluntarily terminated a license may apply for a new license according to section 148E.055.

Subd. 3. Prohibition on practice. A licensee who has voluntarily terminated a license must not practice, attempt to practice, offer to practice, or advertise or hold out as authorized to practice social work, except when the individual is exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

Subd. 4. Disciplinary or other action. The board may take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 against a licensee whose license has been terminated based on conduct occurring before the license is terminated or for practicing social work without a license.

Sec. 80. [148E.090] NAME; CHANGE OF NAME OR ADDRESS.

Subdivision 1. Name. A licensee must use the licensee's legal name or a professional name. If the licensee uses a professional name, the licensee must inform the board in writing of both the licensee's professional name and legal name and must comply with the requirements of this section.

Subd. 2. Legal name change. Within 30 days after changing the licensee's legal name, a licensee must:

(1) request a new license wall certificate;

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(2) provide legal verification of the name change; and

(3) pay the license wall certificate fee specified in section 148E.180.

Subd. 3. Professional name change. Within 30 days after changing the licensee's professional name, a licensee must:

(1) request a new license wall certificate;

(2) provide a notarized statement attesting to the name change; and

(3) pay the license wall certificate fee specified in section 148E.180.

Subd. 4. Address or telephone change. When a licensee changes a mailing address, home address, work address, e-mail address, or daytime public telephone number, the licensee must notify the board of the change electronically or in writing no more than 30 days after the date of the change.

Sec. 81. [148E.095] LICENSE CERTIFICATE OR CARD.

Subdivision 1. License wall certificate. (a) The board must issue a new license wall certificate when the board issues a new license. No fee in addition to the applicable license fee specified in section 148E.180 is required.

(b) The board must replace a license wall certificate when:

(1) a licensee submits an affidavit to the board that the original license wall certificate was lost, stolen, or destroyed; and

(2) the licensee submits the license wall certificate fee specified in section 148E.180.

(1) a licensee requests a revised license wall certificate according to this section; and

(2) a licensee submits the license wall certificate fee specified in section 148E.180.

(d) The board must issue an additional license wall certificate when:

(1) a licensee submits a written request for a new certificate because the licensee practices in more than one location; and

(2) the licensee submits the license wall certificate fee specified in section 148E.180.

Subd. 2. License card. (a) The board must issue a new license card when the board issues a new license. No fee in addition to the applicable license fee specified in section 148E.180 is required.

(b) The board must replace a license card when a licensee submits:

(1) an affidavit to the board that the original license card was lost, stolen, or destroyed; and

(2) the license card fee specified in section 148E.180.

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(c) The board must issue a revised license card when the licensee submits a written request for a new license wall certificate because of a new professional or legal name according to section 148E.090, subdivision 2 or 3. No fee in addition to the one specified in subdivision 1, paragraph (b), is required.

Sec. 82. [148E.100] LICENSED SOCIAL WORKERS; SUPERVISED PRACTICE.

Subdivision 1. Supervision required after licensure. After receiving a license from the board as a licensed social worker, the licensed social worker must obtain at least 100 hours of supervision according to the requirements of this section.

Subd. 2. Practice requirements. The supervision required by subdivision 1 must be obtained during the first 4,000 hours of postbaccalaureate social work practice authorized by law. At least four hours of supervision must be obtained during every 160 hours of practice.

Subd. 3. Types of supervision. Of the 100 hours of supervision required under subdivision 1:

(1) 50 hours must be provided through one-on-one supervision, including: (i) a minimum of 25 hours of in‑person supervision, and (ii) no more than 25 hours of supervision via eye-to-eye electronic media; and

(2) 50 hours must be provided through: (i) one-on-one supervision, or (ii) group supervision. The supervision may be in-person, by telephone, or via eye-to-eye electronic media. The supervision must not be provided by e‑mail. Group supervision is limited to six members not counting the supervisor or supervisors.

Subd. 4. Supervisor requirements. The supervision required by subdivision 1 must be provided by a supervisor who:

(1) is a licensed social worker who has completed the supervised practice requirements;

(2) is a licensed graduate social worker, licensed independent social worker, or licensed independent clinical social worker; or

(3) meets the requirements specified in section 148E.120, subdivision 2.

Subd. 5. Supervisee requirements. The supervisee must:

(1) to the satisfaction of the supervisor, practice competently and ethically according to professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(2) receive supervision in the following content areas:

(i) development of professional values and responsibilities;

(ii) practice skills;

(iii) authorized scope of practice;

(iv) ensuring continuing competence; and

(v) ethical standards of practice;

(3) submit a supervision plan according to section 148E.125, subdivision 1; and

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(4) if the board audits the supervisee's supervised practice, submit verification of supervised practice according to section 148E.125, subdivision 3.

Subd. 6. After completion of supervision requirements. A licensed social worker who fulfills the supervision requirements specified in subdivisions 1 to 5 is not required to be supervised after completion of the supervision requirements.

Subd. 7. Attestation. The social worker and the social worker's supervisor must attest that the supervisee has met or has made progress on meeting the applicable supervision requirements according to section 148E.125, subdivision 2.

Sec. 83. [148E.105] LICENSED GRADUATE SOCIAL WORKERS WHO DO NOT PRACTICE CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK; SUPERVISED PRACTICE.

Subdivision 1. Supervision required after licensure. After receiving a license from the board as a licensed graduate social worker, a licensed graduate social worker must obtain at least 100 hours of supervision according to the requirements of this section.

Subd. 2. Practice requirements. The supervision required by subdivision 1 must be obtained during the first 4,000 hours of postgraduate social work practice authorized by law. At least four hours of supervision must be obtained during every 160 hours of practice.

Subd. 3. Types of supervision. Of the 100 hours of supervision required under subdivision 1:

(1) 50 hours must be provided though one-on-one supervision, including: (i) a minimum of 25 hours of in-person supervision, and (ii) no more than 25 hours of supervision via eye-to-eye electronic media; and

Subd. 4. Supervisor requirements. The supervision required by subdivision 1 must be provided by a supervisor who meets the requirements specified in section 148E.120. The supervision must be provided by a:

(1) licensed independent social worker;

(2) licensed graduate social worker who has completed the supervised practice requirements;

(3) licensed independent clinical social worker; or

(4) a supervisor who meets the requirements specified in section 148E.120, subdivision 2.

Subd. 5. Supervisee requirements. The supervisee must:

(1) to the satisfaction of the supervisor, practice competently and ethically according to professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(2) receive supervision in the following content areas:

(i) development of professional values and responsibilities;

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(ii) practice skills;

(iii) authorized scope of practice;

(iv) ensuring continuing competence; and

(v) ethical standards of practice;

(3) submit a supervision plan according to section 148E.125, subdivision 1; and

(4) verify supervised practice according to section 148E.125, subdivision 3, if:

(i) the board audits the supervisee's supervised practice; or

(ii) a licensed graduate social worker applies for a licensed independent social worker license.

Subd. 6. Supervision not required after completion of supervision requirements. A licensed graduate social worker who fulfills the supervision requirements specified in subdivisions 1 to 5, and who does not practice clinical social work, is not required to be supervised after completion of the supervision requirements.

Subd. 7. Attestation. A social worker and the social worker's supervisor must attest that the supervisee has met or has made progress on meeting the applicable supervision requirements according to section 148E.125, subdivision 2.

Subd. 8. Eligibility to apply for licensure as a licensed independent social worker. Upon completion of 4,000 hours of social work practice, including at least 100 hours of supervision according to the requirements of this section, a licensed graduate social worker is eligible to apply for a licensed independent social worker license according to section 148E.110.

Sec. 84. [148E.106] LICENSED GRADUATE SOCIAL WORKERS WHO PRACTICE CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK; SUPERVISED PRACTICE.

Subdivision 1. Supervision required after licensure. After receiving a license from the board as a licensed graduate social worker, a licensed graduate social worker must obtain at least 200 hours of supervision according to the requirements of this section.

Subd. 2. Practice requirements. The supervision required by subdivision 1 must be obtained during the first 4,000 hours of postgraduate social work practice authorized by law. At least eight hours of supervision must be obtained during every 160 hours of practice.

Subd. 3. Types of supervision. Of the 200 hours of supervision required under subdivision 1:

(1) 100 hours must be provided through one-on-one supervision, including: (i) a minimum of 50 hours of in‑person supervision, and (ii) no more than 50 hours of supervision via eye-to-eye electronic media; and

(2) 100 hours must be provided through: (i) one-on-one supervision, or (ii) group supervision. The supervision may be in-person, by telephone, or via eye-to-eye electronic media. The supervision must not be provided by e‑mail. Group supervision is limited to six supervisees.

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(1) by a licensed independent clinical social worker; or

(2) by a supervisor who meets the requirements specified in section 148E.120, subdivision 2.

Subd. 5. Supervisee requirements. The supervisee must:

(1) to the satisfaction of the supervisor, practice competently and ethically according to professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(2) receive supervision in the following content areas:

(i) development of professional values and responsibilities;

(ii) practice skills;

(iii) authorized scope of practice;

(iv) ensuring continuing competence; and

(v) ethical standards of practice;

(3) submit a supervision plan according to section 148E.125, subdivision 1; and

(4) verify supervised practice according to section 148E.125, subdivision 3, if:

(i) the board audits the supervisee's supervised practice; or

(ii) a licensed graduate social worker applies for a licensed independent clinical social worker license.

Subd. 6. Supervision required. A licensed graduate social worker must not engage in clinical social work practice except under supervision by a licensed independent clinical social worker or an alternate supervisor designated according to section 148E.120, subdivision 2.

Subd. 7. Limit on practice of clinical social work. (a) Except as provided in subdivision 8, a licensed graduate social worker must not engage in clinical social work practice under supervision for more than 8,000 hours. In order to practice clinical social work for more than 8,000 hours, a licensed graduate social worker must obtain a licensed independent clinical social worker license.

(b) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (a), the board may grant a licensed graduate social worker permission to engage in clinical social work practice for more than 8,000 hours if the licensed graduate social worker petitions the board and demonstrates to the board's satisfaction that for reasons of personal hardship the licensed graduate social worker should be granted an extension to continue practicing clinical social work under supervision for up to an additional 2,000 hours.

Subd. 8. Eligibility to apply for licensure as a licensed independent social worker. Upon completion of 4,000 hours of clinical social work practice, including at least 1,800 hours of direct clinical client contact and 200 hours of supervision according to the requirements of this section, a licensed graduate social worker is eligible to apply for a licensed independent clinical social worker license under section 148E.115, subdivision 1.

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Subd. 9. Attestation. A social worker and the social worker's supervisor must attest that the supervisee has met or has made progress on meeting the applicable supervision requirements according to section 148E.125, subdivision 2.

Sec. 85. [148E.110] LICENSED INDEPENDENT SOCIAL WORKERS; SUPERVISED PRACTICE.

Subdivision 1. Supervision required before licensure. Before becoming licensed as a licensed independent social worker, a person must have obtained at least 100 hours of supervision during 4,000 hours of postgraduate social work practice required by law according to the requirements of section 148E.105, subdivisions 3, 4, and 5. At least four hours of supervision must be obtained during every 160 hours of practice.

Subd. 2. Licensed independent social workers; clinical social work after licensure. After licensure, a licensed independent social worker must not engage in clinical social work practice except under supervision by a licensed independent clinical social worker or an alternate supervisor designated according to section 148E.120, subdivision 2.

Subd. 3. Limit on practice of clinical social work. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), a licensed independent social worker must not engage in clinical social work practice under supervision for more than 8,000 hours. In order to practice clinical social work for more than 8,000 hours, a licensed independent social worker must obtain a licensed independent clinical social worker license.

(b) Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph (a), the board may grant a licensed independent social worker permission to engage in clinical social work practice for more than 8,000 hours if the licensed independent social worker petitions the board and demonstrates to the board's satisfaction that for reasons of personal hardship the licensed independent social worker should be granted an extension to continue practicing clinical social work under supervision for up to an additional 2,000 hours.

Subd. 4. Licensed independent social workers who do not practice clinical social work after licensure. After licensure, a licensed independent social worker is not required to be supervised if the licensed independent social worker does not practice clinical social work.

Sec. 86. [148E.115] LICENSED INDEPENDENT CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKERS; SUPERVISION.

Subdivision 1. Supervision required before licensure. Before becoming licensed as a licensed independent clinical social worker, a person must have obtained at least 200 hours of supervision during 4,000 hours of postgraduate clinical practice required by law according to the requirements of section 148E.106.

Subd. 2. No supervision required after licensure. After licensure, a licensed independent clinical social worker is not required to be supervised.

Sec. 87. [148E.120] REQUIREMENTS OF SUPERVISORS.

Subdivision 1. Supervisors licensed as social workers. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), to be eligible to provide supervision under this section, a social worker must:

(1) have at least 2,000 hours of experience in authorized social work practice. If the person is providing clinical supervision, the 2,000 hours must include 1,000 hours of experience in clinical practice;

(2) have completed 30 hours of training in supervision through coursework from an accredited college or university, or through continuing education in compliance with sections 148E.130 to 148E.170;

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(3) be competent in the activities being supervised; and

(4) attest, on a form provided by the board, that the social worker has met the applicable requirements specified in this section and sections 148E.100 to 148E.115. The board may audit the information provided to determine compliance with the requirements of this section.

(b) If the board determines that supervision is not obtainable from an individual meeting the requirements specified in paragraph (a), the board may approve an alternate supervisor according to subdivision 2.

Subd. 2. Alternate supervisors. (a) The board may approve an alternate supervisor if:

(1) the board determines that supervision is not obtainable according to paragraph (b);

(2) the licensee requests in the supervision plan submitted according to section 148E.125, subdivision 1, that an alternate supervisor conduct the supervision;

(3) the licensee describes the proposed supervision and the name and qualifications of the proposed alternate supervisor; and

(4) the requirements of paragraph (d) are met.

(b) The board may determine that supervision is not obtainable if:

(1) the licensee provides documentation as an attachment to the supervision plan submitted according to section 148E.125, subdivision 1, that the licensee has conducted a thorough search for a supervisor meeting the applicable licensure requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.115;

(2) the licensee demonstrates to the board's satisfaction that the search was unsuccessful; and

(3) the licensee describes the extent of the search and the names and locations of the persons and organizations contacted.

(c) The requirements specified in paragraph (b) do not apply to obtaining supervision for clinical practice if the board determines that there are five or fewer licensed independent clinical social workers in the county where the licensee practices social work.

(d) An alternate supervisor must:

(1) be an unlicensed social worker who is employed in, and provides the supervision in, a setting exempt from licensure by section 148E.065, and who has qualifications equivalent to the applicable requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.115;

(2) be a social worker engaged in authorized practice in Iowa, Manitoba, North Dakota, Ontario, South Dakota, or Wisconsin, and has the qualifications equivalent to the applicable requirements specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.115; or

(3) be a licensed marriage and family therapist or a mental health professional as established by section 245.462, subdivision 18, or 245.4871, subdivision 27, or an equivalent mental health professional, as determined by the board, who is licensed or credentialed by a state, territorial, provincial, or foreign licensing agency.

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Sec. 88. [148E.125] DOCUMENTATION OF SUPERVISION.

(b) The supervision plan must be submitted no later than 90 days after the licensee begins a social work practice position after becoming licensed.

(c) For failure to submit the supervision plan within 90 days after beginning a social work practice position, a licensee must pay the supervision plan late fee specified in section 148E.180 when the licensee applies for license renewal.

(d) A license renewal application submitted according to paragraph (a) must not be approved unless the board has received a supervision plan.

(e) The supervision plan must include the following:

(1) the name of the supervisee, the name of the agency in which the supervisee is being supervised, and the supervisee's position title;

(2) the name and qualifications of the person providing the supervision;

(3) the number of hours of one-on-one in-person supervision and the number and type of additional hours of supervision to be completed by the supervisee;

(4) the supervisee's position description;

(5) a brief description of the supervision the supervisee will receive in the following content areas:

(i) clinical practice, if applicable;

(ii) development of professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(iii) practice methods;

(iv) authorized scope of practice;

(v) ensuring continuing competence; and

(vi) ethical standards of practice; and

(6) if applicable, a detailed description of the supervisee's clinical social work practice, addressing:

(i) the client population, the range of presenting issues, and the diagnoses;

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(ii) the clinical modalities that were utilized; and

(iii) the process utilized for determining clinical diagnoses, including the diagnostic instruments used and the role of the supervisee in the diagnostic process.

(f) The board must receive a revised supervision plan within 90 days of any of the following changes:

(1) the supervisee has a new supervisor;

(2) the supervisee begins a new social work position;

(3) the scope or content of the supervisee's social work practice changes substantially;

(4) the number of practice or supervision hours changes substantially; or

(5) the type of supervision changes as supervision is described in section 148E.100, subdivision 3, or 148E.105, subdivision 3, or as required in section 148E.115.

(g) For failure to submit a revised supervision plan as required in paragraph (f), a supervisee must pay the supervision plan late fee specified in section 148E.180, when the supervisee applies for license renewal.

(h) The board must approve the supervisor and the supervision plan.

Subd. 2. Attestation. (a) When a supervisee submits renewal application materials to the board, the supervisee and supervisor must submit an attestation providing the following information on a form provided by the board:

(1) the name of the supervisee, the name of the agency in which the supervisee is being supervised, and the supervisee's position title;

(2) the name and qualifications of the supervisor;

(3) the number of hours and dates of each type of supervision completed;

(4) the supervisee's position description;

(5) a declaration that the supervisee has not engaged in conduct in violation of the standards of practice specified in sections 148E.195 to 148E.240;

(6) a declaration that the supervisee has practiced competently and ethically according to professional social work knowledge, skills, and values; and

(7) a list of the content areas in which the supervisee has received supervision, including the following:

(i) clinical practice, if applicable;

(ii) development of professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(iii) practice methods;

(iv) authorized scope of practice;

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(v) ensuring continuing competence; and

(vi) ethical standards of practice.

(b) The information provided on the attestation form must demonstrate to the board's satisfaction that the supervisee has met or has made progress on meeting the applicable supervised practice requirements.

Subd. 3. Verification of supervised practice. (a) In addition to receiving the attestation required under subdivision 2, the board must receive verification of supervised practice if:

(1) the board audits the supervision of a supervisee; or

(2) an applicant applies for a license as a licensed independent social worker or as a licensed independent clinical social worker.

(b) When verification of supervised practice is required according to paragraph (a), the board must receive from the supervisor the following information on a form provided by the board:

(1) the name of the supervisee, the name of the agency in which the supervisee is being supervised, and the supervisee's position title;

(2) the name and qualifications of the supervisor;

(3) the number of hours and dates of each type of supervision completed;

(4) the supervisee's position description;

(5) a declaration that the supervisee has not engaged in conduct in violation of the standards of practice specified in sections 148E.195 to 148E.240;

(6) a declaration that the supervisee has practiced ethically and competently according to professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(7) a list of the content areas in which the supervisee has received supervision, including the following:

(i) clinical practice, if applicable;

(ii) development of professional social work knowledge, skills, and values;

(iii) practice methods;

(iv) authorized scope of practice;

(v) ensuring continuing competence; and

(vi) ethical standards of practice; and

(8) if applicable, a detailed description of the supervisee's clinical social work practice, addressing:

(i) the client population, the range of presenting issues, and the diagnoses;

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(ii) the clinical modalities that were utilized; and

(iii) the process utilized for determining clinical diagnoses, including the diagnostic instruments used and the role of the supervisee in the diagnostic process.

(c) The information provided on the verification form must demonstrate to the board's satisfaction that the supervisee has met the applicable supervised practice requirements.

Subd. 4. Alternative verification of supervised practice. Notwithstanding the requirements of subdivision 3, the board may accept alternative verification of supervised practice if a supervisee demonstrates to the satisfaction of the board that the supervisee is unable to locate a former supervisor to provide the required information.

Sec. 89. [148E.130] CLOCK HOURS REQUIRED.

Subdivision 1. Total clock hours required. At the time of license renewal, a licensee must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the licensee has, during the renewal term, completed at least 40 clock hours of continuing education.

Subd. 2. Ethics requirement. At least two of the clock hours required under subdivision 1 must be in social work ethics.

Subd. 3. Requirement for LICSWs. For licensed independent clinical social workers, at least 24 of the clock hours required under subdivision 1 must be in the clinical content areas specified in section 148E.055, subdivision 5.

Subd. 4. Requirement for supervisors. For social workers providing supervision according to sections 148E.100 to 148E.125, at least six of the clock hours required under subdivision 1 must be in the practice of supervision.

Subd. 5. Independent study. Independent study must not consist of more than ten clock hours of continuing education per renewal term. Independent study must be for publication, public presentation, or professional development. Independent study includes, but is not limited to, electronic study. For purposes of subdivision 6, independent study includes consultation with an experienced supervisor regarding the practice of supervision.

Subd. 6. Coursework. One credit of coursework in a semester-based academic institution is the equivalent of 15 clock hours.

Subd. 7. Prorated renewal term. If the licensee's renewal term is prorated to be less or more than 24 months, the required number of continuing education clock hours is prorated proportionately.

Sec. 90. [148E.135] APPROVAL OF CLOCK HOURS.

Subdivision 1. Ways of approving clock hours. The clock hours required under section 148E.130 must be approved in one or more of the following ways:

(1) the hours must be offered by a continuing education provider approved by the board;

(2) the hours must be offered by a continuing education provider approved by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board;

(3) the hours must be earned through a continuing education program approved by the National Association of Social Workers; or

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(4) the hours must be earned through a continuing education program approved by the board.

Subd. 2. Preapproval not required. Providers and programs are not required to be preapproved but must meet the requirements specified in this section.

Sec. 91. [148E.140] VARIANCES.

The board may grant a variance to the continuing education requirements specified in section 148E.130, when a licensee demonstrates to the satisfaction of the board that the licensee is unable to complete the required number of clock hours during the renewal term. The board may allow a licensee to complete the required number of clock hours within a time frame specified by the board. The board must not allow a licensee to complete less than the required number of clock hours.

Sec. 92. [148E.145] CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDERS APPROVED BY BOARD.

Subdivision 1. Board approval. (a) The board must approve a continuing education provider who:

(1) submits a completed application to the board which provides the information required by subdivision 2 and which meets the criteria specified in subdivision 3; and

(2) pays the provider fee specified in section 148E.180.

(b) An approval is valid for programs offered no later than one year from the date the application is approved by the board.

Subd. 2. Information required. The information that must be provided to the board includes, but is not limited to, the following:

(1) the name of the continuing education provider;

(2) the address, telephone number, and e-mail address of a contact person for the provider;

(3) a signed statement that indicates the provider understands and agrees to abide by the criteria specified in subdivision 3; and

(4) a signed statement that indicates the provider agrees to furnish a certificate of attendance to each participant in a program offered by the provider.

Subd. 3. Criteria for programs. (a) A continuing education provider must employ the following criteria in determining whether to offer a continuing education program:

(1) whether the material to be presented will promote the standards of practice described in sections 148E.195 to 148E.240;

(2) whether the material to be presented will contribute to the practice of social work as defined in section 148E.010;

(3) whether the material to be presented is intended for the benefit of practicing social workers; and

(4) whether the persons presenting the program are qualified in the subject matter being presented.

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(b) The material presented must not be primarily procedural or primarily oriented towards business practices or self-development.

Subd. 4. Audits. (a) The board may audit programs offered by a continuing education provider approved by the board to determine compliance with the requirements of this section.

(b) A continuing education provider audited by the board must provide the documentation specified in subdivision 5.

Subd. 5. Records retention; continuing education providers. For three years following the end of each program offered by a continuing education provider, the provider must maintain the following information:

(1) the title of the program;

(2) a description of the content and objectives of the program;

(3) the date of the program;

(4) the number of clock hours credited for participation in the program;

(5) the program location;

(6) the names and qualifications of the primary presenters;

(7) a description of the primary audience the program was designed for; and

(8) a list of the participants in the program.

Sec. 93. [148E.150] APPROVED CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDERS.

In order to receive credit for a program offered by a continuing education provider approved by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board, the provider must be listed on the Association of Social Work Boards Web site as a provider currently approved by the Association of Social Work Boards or a similar examination body designated by the board.

Sec. 94. [148E.155] APPROVED CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAMS.

In order to receive credit for a program approved by the National Association of Social Workers, the program must be listed on the National Association of Social Workers Web site as a program currently approved by the National Association of Social Workers.

Sec. 95. [148E.160] CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAMS APPROVED BY BOARD.

Subdivision 1. Required program content. In order to be approved by the board, a continuing education program must:

(1) promote the standards of practice described in sections 148E.195 to 148E.240;

(2) contribute to the practice of social work as defined in section 148E.010; and

(3) not be primarily procedural or be primarily oriented towards business practices or self-development.

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Subd. 2. Types of continuing education programs. In order to be approved by the board, a continuing education program must be one of the following: academic coursework offered by an institution of higher learning; educational workshops, seminars, or conferences offered by an organization or individual; staff training offered by a public or private employer; or independent study.

Sec. 96. [148E.165] CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS OF LICENSEES.

Subdivision 1. Records retention; licensees. For one year following the expiration date of a license, the licensee must maintain documentation of clock hours earned during the previous renewal term. The documentation must include the following:

(1) for educational workshops or seminars offered by an organization or at a conference, a copy of the certificate of attendance issued by the presenter or sponsor giving the following information:

(i) the name of the sponsor or presenter of the program;

(ii) the title of the workshop or seminar;

(iii) the dates the licensee participated in the program; and

(iv) the number of clock hours completed;

(2) for academic coursework offered by an institution of higher learning, a copy of a transcript giving the following information:

(i) the name of the institution offering the course;

(ii) the title of the course;

(iii) the dates the licensee participated in the course; and

(iv) the number of credits completed;

(3) for staff training offered by public or private employers, a copy of the certificate of attendance issued by the employer giving the following information:

(i) the name of the employer;

(ii) the title of the staff training;

(iii) the dates the licensee participated in the program; and

(iv) the number of clock hours completed; and

(4) for independent study, including electronic study, a written summary of the study conducted, including the following information:

(i) the topics studied;

(ii) a description of the applicability of the study to the licensee's authorized scope of practice;

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(iii) the titles and authors of books and articles consulted or the name of the organization offering the study;

(iv) the dates the licensee conducted the study; and

(v) the number of clock hours the licensee conducted the study.

Subd. 2. Audits. The board may audit license renewal and reactivation applications to determine compliance with the requirements of sections 148E.130 to 148E.170. A licensee audited by the board must provide the documentation specified in subdivision 1 regardless of whether the provider or program has been approved by the board, the Association of Social Work Boards, or a similar examination body designated by the board, or the National Association of Social Workers.

Sec. 97. [148E.170] REVOCATION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION APPROVALS.

The board may revoke approval of a provider or of a program offered by a provider, or of an individual program approved by the board, if the board determines subsequent to the approval that the provider or program failed to meet the requirements of sections 148E.130 to 148E.170.

Sec. 98. [148E.175] FEES.

The fees specified in section 148E.180 are nonrefundable and must be deposited in the state government special revenue fund.

Sec. 99. [148E.180] FEE AMOUNTS.

Subdivision 1. Application fees. Application fees for licensure are as follows:

(1) for a licensed social worker, $45;

(2) for a licensed graduate social worker, $45;

(3) for a licensed independent social worker, $90;

(4) for a licensed independent clinical social worker, $90;

(5) for a temporary license, $50; and

(6) for a licensure by endorsement, $150.

The fee for criminal background checks is the fee charged by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The criminal background check fee must be included with the application fee as required according to section 148E.055.

Subd. 2. License fees. License fees are as follows:

(1) for a licensed social worker, $115.20;

(2) for a licensed graduate social worker, $201.60;

(3) for a licensed independent social worker, $302.40;

(4) for a licensed independent clinical social worker, $331.20;

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(5) for an emeritus license, $43.20; and

(6) for a temporary leave fee, the same as the renewal fee specified in subdivision 3.

If the licensee's initial license term is less or more than 24 months, the required license fees must be prorated proportionately.

Subd. 3. Renewal fees. Renewal fees for licensure are as follows:

(1) for a licensed social worker, $115.20;

(2) for a licensed graduate social worker, $201.60;

(3) for a licensed independent social worker, $302.40; and

(4) for a licensed independent clinical social worker, $331.20.

Subd. 4. Continuing education provider fees. Continuing education provider fees are as follows:

(1) for a provider who offers programs totaling one to eight clock hours in a one-year period according to section 148E.145, $50;

(2) for a provider who offers programs totaling nine to 16 clock hours in a one-year period according to section 148E.145, $100;

(3) for a provider who offers programs totaling 17 to 32 clock hours in a one-year period according to section 148E.145, $200;

(4) for a provider who offers programs totaling 33 to 48 clock hours in a one-year period according to section 148E.145, $400; and

(5) for a provider who offers programs totaling 49 or more clock hours in a one-year period according to section 148E.145, $600.

Subd. 5. Late fees. Late fees are as follows:

(1) renewal late fee, one-half of the renewal fee specified in subdivision 3; and

(2) supervision plan late fee, $40.

Subd. 6. License cards and wall certificates. (a) The fee for a license card as specified in section 148E.095 is $10.

(b) The fee for a license wall certificate as specified in section 148E.095 is $30.

Subd. 7. Reactivation fees. Reactivation fees are as follows:

(1) reactivation from a temporary leave or emeritus status, the prorated share of the renewal fee specified in subdivision 3; and

(2) reactivation of an expired license, 1-1/2 times the renewal fees specified in subdivision 3.

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Sec. 100. [148E.185] PURPOSE OF COMPLIANCE LAWS.

The purpose of sections 148E.185 to 148E.290 is to protect the public by ensuring that all persons licensed as social workers meet minimum standards of practice. The board shall promptly and fairly investigate and resolve all complaints alleging violations of statutes and rules that the board is empowered to enforce and (1) take appropriate disciplinary action, adversarial action, or other action justified by the facts, or (2) enter into corrective action agreements or stipulations to cease practice, when doing so is consistent with the board's obligation to protect the public.

Sec. 101. [148E.190] GROUNDS FOR ACTION.

Subdivision 1. Scope. The grounds for action in subdivisions 2 to 4 and the standards of practice requirements in sections 148E.195 to 148E.240 apply to all licensees and applicants.

Subd. 2. Violations. The board has grounds to take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when a social worker violates:

(1) a statute or rule enforced by the board, including this section and sections 148E.195 to 148E.240;

(2) a federal or state law or rule related to the practice of social work; or

(3) an order, stipulation, or agreement agreed to or issued by the board.

Subd. 3. Conduct before licensure. A violation of the requirements specified in this section and sections 148E.195 to 148E.240 is grounds for the board to take action under sections 148E.255 to 148E.270. The board's jurisdiction to exercise the powers provided in this section extends to an applicant or licensee's conduct that occurred before licensure if:

(1) the conduct did not meet the minimum accepted and prevailing standards of professional social work practice at the time the conduct occurred; or

(2) the conduct adversely affects the applicant or licensee's present ability to practice social work in conformity with the requirements of sections 148E.195 to 148E.240.

Subd. 4. Unauthorized practice. The board has grounds to take action according to sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when a social worker:

(1) practices outside the scope of practice authorized by section 148E.050;

(2) engages in the practice of social work without a social work license under section 148E.055 or 148E.060, except when the social worker is exempt from licensure under section 148E.065;

(3) provides social work services to a client who receives social work services in this state, and is not licensed under section 148E.055 or 148E.060, except when the social worker is exempt from licensure under section 148E.065.

Sec. 102. [148E.195] REPRESENTATIONS TO CLIENTS AND PUBLIC.

Subdivision 1. Required displays and information for clients. (a) A social worker must conspicuously display at the social worker's places of practice, or make available as a handout for all clients, information that the client has the right to the following:

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(1) to be informed of the social worker's license status, education, training, and experience;

(2) to examine public data on the social worker maintained by the board;

(3) to report a complaint about the social worker's practice to the board; and

(4) to be informed of the board's mailing address, e-mail address, Web site address, and telephone number.

(b) A social worker must conspicuously display the social worker's wall certificate at the social worker's places of practice and office locations. Additional wall certificates may be requested according to section 148E.095.

Subd. 2. Representations. (a) No applicant or other individual may be represented to the public by any title incorporating the words "social work" or "social worker" unless the individual holds a license according to sections 148E.055 and 148E.060 or practices in a setting exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

(b) In all professional use of a social worker's name, the social worker must use the license designation "LSW" or "licensed social worker" for a licensed social worker, "LGSW" or "licensed graduate social worker" for a licensed graduate social worker, "LISW" or "licensed independent social worker" for a licensed independent social worker, or "LICSW" or "licensed independent clinical social worker" for a licensed independent clinical social worker.

(c) Public statements or advertisements must not be untruthful, misleading, false, fraudulent, deceptive, or potentially exploitative of clients, former clients, interns, students, supervisees, or the public.

(d) A social worker must not:

(1) use licensure status as a claim, promise, or guarantee of successful service;

(2) obtain a license by cheating or employing fraud or deception;

(3) make false statements or misrepresentations to the board or in materials submitted to the board; or

(4) engage in conduct that has the potential to deceive or defraud a social work client, intern, student, supervisee, or the public.

Subd. 3. Information on credentials. (a) A social worker must provide accurate and factual information concerning the social worker's credentials, education, training, and experience when the information is requested by clients, potential clients, or other persons or organizations.

(b) A social worker must not misrepresent directly or by implication the social worker's license, degree, professional certifications, affiliations, or other professional qualifications in any oral or written communications to clients, potential clients, or other persons or organizations. A social worker must take reasonable steps to prevent such misrepresentations by other social workers.

(c) A social worker must not hold out as a person licensed as a social worker without having a social work license according to sections 148E.055 and 148E.060.

(d) A social worker must not misrepresent directly or by implication (1) affiliations with institutions or organizations, or (2) purposes or characteristics of institutions or organizations with which the social worker is or has been affiliated.

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Sec. 103. [148E.200] COMPETENCE.

Subdivision 1. Competence. (a) A social worker must provide services and hold out as competent only to the extent the social worker's education, training, license, consultation received, supervision experience, or other relevant professional experience demonstrate competence in the services provided. A social worker must make a referral to a competent professional when the services required are beyond the social worker's competence or authorized scope of practice.

(b) When generally recognized standards do not exist with respect to an emerging area of practice, including but not limited to providing social work services through electronic means, a social worker must take the steps necessary, such as consultation or supervision, to ensure the competence of the social worker's work and to protect clients from harm.

Subd. 2. Supervision or consultation. Notwithstanding the completion of supervision requirements as specified in sections 148E.100 to 148E.125, a social worker must obtain supervision or engage in consultation when appropriate or necessary for competent and ethical practice.

Subd. 3. Delegation of social work responsibilities. (a) A social worker must not delegate a social work responsibility to another individual when the social worker knows or reasonably should know that the individual is not licensed when required to be licensed according to sections 148E.055 and 148E.060.

(b) A social worker must not delegate a social work responsibility to another individual when the social worker knows or reasonably should know that the individual is not competent to assume the responsibility or perform the task.

Sec. 104. [148E.205] IMPAIRMENT.

Subdivision 1. Grounds for action. The board has grounds to take action under sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when a social worker is unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental, physical, or psychological condition.

Subd. 2. Self-reporting. A social worker regulated by the board who is unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental, physical, or psychological condition, must report to the board or the health professionals services program.

Sec. 105. [148E.210] PROFESSIONAL AND ETHICAL CONDUCT.

The board has grounds to take action under sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when a social worker:

(1) engages in unprofessional or unethical conduct, including any departure from or failure to conform to the minimum accepted ethical and other prevailing standards of professional social work practice, without actual injury to a social work client, intern, student, supervisee, or the public needing to be established;

(2) engages in conduct that has the potential to cause harm to a client, intern, student, supervisee, or the public;

(3) demonstrates a willful or careless disregard for the health, welfare, or safety of a client, intern, student, or supervisee; or

(4) engages in acts or conduct adversely affecting the applicant or licensee's current ability or fitness to engage in social work practice, whether or not the acts or conduct occurred while engaged in the practice of social work.

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Sec. 106. [148E.215] RESPONSIBILITIES TO CLIENTS.

Subdivision 1. Responsibility to clients. A social worker's primary professional responsibility is to the client. A social worker must respect the client's interests, including the interest in self-determination, except when required to do otherwise by law.

Subd. 2. Nondiscrimination. A social worker must not discriminate against a client, intern, student, or supervisee or in providing services to a client, intern, or supervisee on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, color, national origin, religion, illness, disability, political affiliation, or social or economic status.

Subd. 3. Research. When undertaking research activities, a social worker must use accepted protocols for the protection of human subjects, including (1) establishing appropriate safeguards to protect the subject's vulnerability, and (2) obtaining the subjects' informed consent.

Sec. 107. [148E.220] RELATIONSHIPS WITH CLIENTS, FORMER CLIENTS, AND OTHERS.

Subdivision 1. Social worker responsibility. (a) A social worker is responsible for acting professionally in relationships with clients or former clients. A client or a former client's initiation of, or attempt to engage in, or request to engage in, a personal, sexual, or business relationship is not a defense to a violation of this section.

(b) When a relationship is permitted by this section, social workers who engage in such a relationship assume the full burden of demonstrating that the relationship will not be detrimental to the client or the professional relationship.

Subd. 2. Professional boundaries. A social worker must maintain appropriate professional boundaries with a client. A social worker must not engage in practices with clients that create an unacceptable risk of client harm or of impairing a social worker's objectivity or professional judgment. A social worker must not act or fail to act in a way that, as judged by a reasonable and prudent social worker, inappropriately encourages the client to relate to the social worker outside of the boundaries of the professional relationship, or in a way that interferes with the client's ability to benefit from social work services from the social worker.

Subd. 3. Misuse of professional relationship. A social worker must not use the professional relationship with a client, student, supervisee, or intern to further the social worker's personal, emotional, financial, sexual, religious, political, or business benefit or interests.

Subd. 4. Improper termination. A social worker must not terminate a professional relationship for the purpose of beginning a personal, sexual, or business relationship with a client.

Subd. 5. Personal relationship with a client. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), a social worker must not engage in a personal relationship with a client that creates a risk of client harm or of impairing a social worker's objectivity or professional judgment.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), if a social worker is unable to avoid a personal relationship with a client, the social worker must take appropriate precautions, such as consultation or supervision, to address the potential for risk of client harm or of impairing a social worker's objectivity or professional judgment.

Subd. 6. Personal relationship with a former client. A social worker may engage in a personal relationship with a former client after appropriate termination of the professional relationship, except:

(1) as prohibited by subdivision 8; or

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(2) if a reasonable and prudent social worker would conclude after appropriate assessment that (i) the former client is emotionally dependent on the social worker or continues to relate to the social worker as a client, or (ii) the social worker is emotionally dependent on the client or continues to relate to the former client as a social worker.

Subd. 7. Sexual conduct with a client. A social worker must not engage in or suggest sexual conduct with a client.

Subd. 8. Sexual conduct with a former client. (a) A social worker who has engaged in diagnosing, counseling, or treating a client with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders must not engage in or suggest sexual conduct with the former client under any circumstances for a period of two years following the termination of the professional relationship. After two years following the termination of the professional relationship, a social worker who has engaged in diagnosing, counseling, or treating a client with a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder must not engage in or suggest sexual conduct with the former client under any circumstances unless:

(1) the social worker did not intentionally or unintentionally coerce, exploit, deceive, or manipulate the former client at any time;

(2) the social worker did not represent to the former client that sexual conduct with the social worker is consistent with or part of the client's treatment;

(3) the social worker's sexual conduct was not detrimental to the former client at any time;

(4) the former client is not emotionally dependent on the social worker and does not continue to relate to the social worker as a client; and

(5) the social worker is not emotionally dependent on the client and does not continue to relate to the former client as a social worker.

(b) If there is an alleged violation of paragraph (a), the social worker assumes the full burden of demonstrating to the board that the social worker did not intentionally or unintentionally coerce, exploit, deceive, or manipulate the client, and the social worker's sexual conduct was not detrimental to the client at any time. Upon request, a social worker must provide information to the board addressing:

(1) the amount of time that has passed since termination of services;

(2) the duration, intensity, and nature of services;

(3) the circumstances of termination of services;

(4) the former client's emotional, mental, and behavioral history;

(5) the former client's current emotional, mental, and behavioral status;

(6) the likelihood of adverse impact on the former client; and

(7) the existence of actions, conduct, or statements made by the social worker during the course of services suggesting or inviting the possibility of a sexual relationship with the client following termination of services.

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(c) A social worker who has provided social work services other than those described in paragraph (a) to a client must not engage in or suggest sexual conduct with the former client if a reasonable and prudent social worker would conclude after appropriate assessment that engaging in such behavior with the former client would create an unacceptable risk of harm to the former client.

Subd. 9. Sexual conduct with student, supervisee, or intern. (a) A social worker must not engage in or suggest sexual conduct with a student while the social worker has authority over any part of the student's academic program.

(b) A social worker supervising an intern must not engage in or suggest sexual conduct with the intern during the course of the internship.

(c) A social worker practicing social work as a supervisor must not engage in or suggest sexual conduct with a supervisee during the period of supervision.

Subd. 10. Sexual harassment. A social worker must not engage in any physical, oral, written, or electronic behavior that a client, former client, student, supervisee, or intern may reasonably interpret as sexually harassing or sexually demeaning.

Subd. 11. Business relationship with client. A social worker must not purchase goods or services from a client or otherwise engage in a business relationship with a client except when:

(1) a social worker purchases goods or services from the client and a reasonable and prudent social worker would determine that it is not practical or reasonable to obtain the goods or services from another provider; and

(2) engaging in the business relationship will not be detrimental to the client or the professional relationship.

Subd. 12. Business relationship with former client. A social worker may purchase goods or services from a former client or otherwise engage in a business relationship with a former client after appropriate termination of the professional relationship unless a reasonable and prudent social worker would conclude after appropriate assessment that:

(1) the former client is emotionally dependent on the social worker and purchasing goods or services from the former client or otherwise engaging in a business relationship with the former client would be detrimental to the former client; or

(2) the social worker is emotionally dependent on the former client and purchasing goods or services from the former client or otherwise engaging in a business relationship with the former client would be detrimental to the former client.

Subd. 13. Previous sexual, personal, or business relationship. (a) A social worker must not engage in a social worker/client relationship with an individual with whom the social worker had a previous sexual relationship.

(b) A social worker must not engage in a social worker/client relationship with an individual with whom the social worker had a previous personal or business relationship if a reasonable and prudent social worker would conclude after appropriate assessment that the social worker/client relationship would create an unacceptable risk of client harm or that the social worker's objectivity or professional judgment may be impaired.

Subd. 14. Giving alcohol or other drugs to client. (a) Unless authorized by law, a social worker must not offer medication or controlled substances to a client.

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(b) A social worker must not accept medication or controlled substances from a client, except that if authorized by law, a social worker may accept medication or controlled substances from a client for purposes of disposal or to monitor use.

(c) A social worker must not offer alcoholic beverages to a client except when the offer is authorized or prescribed by a physician or is offered according to a client's care plan.

(d) A social worker must not accept alcoholic beverages from a client.

Subd. 15. Relationship with client's family or household member. Subdivisions 1 to 14 apply to a social worker's relationship with a client's family or household member when a reasonable and prudent social worker would conclude after appropriate assessment that a relationship with a family or household member would create an unacceptable risk of harm to the client.

Sec. 108. [148E.225] TREATMENT AND INTERVENTION SERVICES.

Subdivision 1. Assessment or diagnosis. A social worker must base treatment and intervention services on an assessment or diagnosis. A social worker must evaluate, on an ongoing basis, the appropriateness of the assessment or diagnosis.

Subd. 2. Assessment or diagnostic instruments. A social worker must not use an assessment or diagnostic instrument without adequate training. A social worker must follow standards and accepted procedures for using an assessment or diagnostic instrument. A social worker must inform a client of the purpose before administering the instrument and must make the results available to the client.

Subd. 3. Plan for services. A social worker must develop a plan for services that includes goals based on the assessment or diagnosis. A social worker must evaluate, on an ongoing basis, the appropriateness of the plan and the client's progress toward the goals.

Subd. 4. Records. (a) A social worker must make and maintain current and accurate records, appropriate to the circumstances, of all services provided to a client. At a minimum, the records must contain documentation of:

(1) the assessment or diagnosis;

(2) the content of the service plan;

(3) progress with the plan and any revisions of assessment, diagnosis, or plan;

(4) any fees charged and payments made;

(5) copies of all client-written authorizations for release of information; and

(6) other information necessary to provide appropriate services.

(b) These records must be maintained by the social worker for at least seven years after the last date of service to the client. Social workers who are employed by an agency or other entity are not required to:

(1) maintain personal or separate records; or

(2) personally retain records at the conclusion of their employment.

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Subd. 5. Termination of services. A social worker must terminate a professional relationship with a client when the social worker reasonably determines that the client is not likely to benefit from continued services or the services are no longer needed, unless the social worker is required by law to provide services. A social worker who anticipates terminating services must give reasonable notice to the client in a manner that is appropriate to the needs of the client. The social worker must provide appropriate referrals as needed or upon request of the client.

Sec. 109. [148E.230] CONFIDENTIALITY AND RECORDS.

Subdivision 1. Informed consent. (a) A social worker must obtain valid, informed consent, appropriate to the circumstances, before providing services to clients. When obtaining informed consent, the social worker must determine whether the client has the capacity to provide informed consent. If the client does not have the capacity to provide consent, the social worker must obtain consent for the services from the client's legal representative. The social worker must not provide services, unless authorized or required by law, if the client or the client's legal representative does not consent to the services.

(b) If a social worker determines that a client does not have the capacity to provide consent, and the client does not have a legal representative, the social worker:

(1) must, except as provided in clause (2), secure a legal representative for a client before providing services; or

(2) may, notwithstanding clause (1), provide services, except when prohibited by other applicable law, that are necessary to ensure the client's safety or to preserve the client's property or financial resources.

(c) A social worker must use clear and understandable language, including using an interpreter proficient in the client's primary language as necessary, to inform clients of the plan of services, risks related to the plan, limits to services, relevant costs, terms of payment, reasonable alternatives, the client's right to refuse or withdraw consent, and the time frame covered by the consent.

Subd. 2. Mandatory reporting and disclosure of client information. At the beginning of a professional relationship and during the professional relationship as necessary and appropriate, a social worker must inform the client of those circumstances under which the social worker may be required to disclose client information specified in subdivision 3, paragraph (a), without the client's consent.

Subd. 3. Confidentiality of client information. (a) A social worker must ensure the confidentiality of all client information obtained in the course of the social worker/client relationship and all client information otherwise obtained by the social worker that is relevant to the social worker/client relationship. Except as provided in this section, client information may be disclosed or released only with the client's or the client's legal representative's valid informed consent, appropriate to the circumstances, except when otherwise required by law. A social worker must seek consent to disclose or release client information only when such disclosure or release is necessary to provide social work services.

(b) A social worker must continue to maintain confidentiality of the client information specified in paragraph (a) upon termination of the professional relationship including upon the death of the client, except as provided under this section or other applicable law.

(c) A social worker must limit access to the client information specified in paragraph (a) in a social worker's agency to appropriate agency staff whose duties require access.

Subd. 4. Release of client information with written informed consent. (a) Except as provided in subdivision 5, client information specified in subdivision 3, paragraph (a), may be released only with the client's or the client's legal representative's written informed consent. The written informed consent must:

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(1) explain to whom the client's records may be released;

(2) explain the purpose for the release; and

(3) state an expiration date for the authorized release of the records.

(b) A social worker may provide client information specified in subdivision 3, paragraph (a), to a third party for the purpose of payment for services rendered only with the client's written informed consent.

(c) Except as provided in subdivision 5, a social worker may disclose client information specified in subdivision 3, paragraph (a), only with the client's or the client's legal representative's written informed consent. When it is not practical to obtain written informed consent before providing necessary services, a social worker may disclose or release client information with the client's or the client's legal representative's oral informed consent.

(d) Unless otherwise authorized by law, a social worker must obtain a client's written informed consent before taking a photograph of the client or making an audio or video recording of the client, or allowing a third party to do the same. The written informed consent must explain:

(1) the purpose of the photograph or the recording and how the photograph or recording will be used, how it will be stored, and when it will be destroyed; and

(2) how the client may have access to the photograph or recording.

Subd. 5. Release of client information without written informed consent. (a) A social worker may disclose client information specified in subdivision 3, paragraph (a), without the written consent of the client or the client's legal representative only under the following circumstances or under the circumstances described in paragraph (b):

(1) when mandated or authorized by federal or state law, including the mandatory reporting requirements under the duty to warn, maltreatment of minors, and vulnerable adult laws specified in section 148E.240, subdivisions 6 to 8;

(2) when the board issues a subpoena to the social worker; or

(3) when a court of competent jurisdiction orders release of the client records or information.

(b) When providing services authorized or required by law to a client who does not have the capacity to provide consent and who does not have a legal representative, a social worker must disclose or release client records or information as necessary to provide services to ensure the client's safety or to preserve the client's property or financial resources.

Subd. 6. Release of client records or information. When releasing client records or information under this section, a social worker must release current, accurate, and complete records or information.

Sec. 110. [148E.235] FEES AND BILLING PRACTICES.

Subdivision 1. Fees and payments. (a) A social worker must ensure that a client or a client's legal representative is informed of all fees at the initial session or meeting with the client, and that payment for services is arranged with the client or the client's legal representative at the beginning of the professional relationship. Upon request from a client or a client's legal representative, a social worker must provide in a timely manner a written payment plan or a written explanation of the charges for any services rendered.

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(b) When providing services authorized or required by law to a client who does not have the capacity to provide consent and who does not have a legal representative, a social worker may submit reasonable bills to an appropriate payer for services provided.

Subd. 2. Billing for services not provided. A social worker must not bill for services that have not been provided except that, with prior notice to the client, a social worker may bill for failed appointments or for cancellations without sufficient notice. A social worker may bill only for provided services which are necessary and appropriate. Financial responsibility for failed appointment billings resides solely with the client and such costs may not be billed to public or private payers.

Subd. 3. No payment for referrals. A social worker must not accept or give a commission, rebate, or other form of remuneration solely or primarily to profit from the referral of a client.

Subd. 4. Fees and billing practices. A social worker must not engage in improper or fraudulent billing practices, including, but not limited to, violations of the federal Medicare and Medicaid laws or state medical assistance laws.

Sec. 111. [148E.240] REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Subdivision 1. Failure to self-report adverse actions. The board has grounds to take action under sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when a social worker fails to report to the board within 90 days:

(1) having been disciplined, sanctioned, or found to have violated a state, territorial, provincial, or foreign licensing agency's laws or rules;

(2) having been convicted of committing a felony, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor reasonably related to the practice of social work;

(3) having had a finding or verdict of guilt, whether or not the adjudication of guilt is withheld or not entered, of committing a felony, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor reasonably related to the practice of social work;

(4) having admitted to committing, or entering a no contest plea to committing, a felony, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor reasonably related to the practice of social work; or

(5) having been denied licensure by a state, territorial, provincial, or foreign licensing agency.

Subd. 2. Failure to submit application information. The board has grounds to take action under sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when an applicant or licensee fails to submit with an application the following information:

(1) the dates and dispositions of any malpractice settlements or awards made relating to the social work services provided by the applicant or licensee; or

(2) the dates and dispositions of any civil litigations or arbitrations relating to the social work services provided by the applicant or licensee.

Subd. 3. Reporting other licensed health professionals. An applicant or licensee must report to the appropriate health-related licensing board conduct by a licensed health professional which would constitute grounds for disciplinary action under the statutes and rules enforced by that board.

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Subd. 4. Reporting unlicensed practice. An applicant or licensee must report to the board conduct by an unlicensed person which constitutes the practice of social work, as defined in section 148E.010, except when the unlicensed person is exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

Subd. 5. Failure to report other applicants or licensees; unlicensed practice. The board has grounds to take action under sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 when an applicant or licensee fails to report to the board conduct:

(1) by another licensee or applicant which the applicant or licensee has reason to believe may reasonably constitute grounds for disciplinary action under this section; or

(2) by an unlicensed person that constitutes the practice of social work when a license is required to practice social work.

Subd. 6. Duty to warn. A licensee must comply with the duty to warn established by section 148.975.

Subd. 7. Reporting maltreatment of minors. An applicant or licensee must comply with the reporting of maltreatment of minors established by section 626.556.

Subd. 8. Reporting maltreatment of vulnerable adults. An applicant or licensee must comply with the reporting of maltreatment of vulnerable adults established by section 626.557.

Subd. 9. Subpoenas. The board may issue subpoenas according to section 148E.245 and chapter 214 for the production of any reports required by this section or any related documents.

Sec. 112. [148E.245] INVESTIGATIVE POWERS AND PROCEDURES.

Subdivision 1. Subpoenas. (a) The board may issue subpoenas and compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of all necessary papers, books, records, documents, and other evidentiary material as part of its investigation of an applicant or licensee under this section or chapter 214.

(b) If any person fails or refuses to appear or testify regarding any matter about which the person may be lawfully questioned, or fails or refuses to produce any papers, books, records, documents, or other evidentiary materials in the matter to be heard, after having been required by order of the board or by a subpoena of the board to do so, the board may institute a proceeding in any district court to enforce the board's order or subpoena.

(c) The board or a designated member of the board acting on behalf of the board may issue subpoenas or administer oaths to witnesses or take affirmations. Depositions may be taken within or out of the state in the manner provided by law for the taking of depositions in civil actions.

(d) A subpoena or other process or paper may be served upon any person named therein, by mail or by any officer authorized to serve subpoenas or other process or paper in civil actions, with the same fees and mileage and in the same manner as prescribed by law for service of process issued out of the district court of this state.

(e) Fees, mileage, and other costs must be paid as the board directs.

Subd. 2. Classification of data. (a) Any records obtained as part of an investigation must be treated as investigative data under section 13.41 and be classified as confidential data.

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(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), client records must be treated as private data under chapter 13. Client records must be protected as private data in the records of the board and in administrative or judicial proceedings unless the client authorizes the board in writing to make public the identity of the client or a portion or all of the client's records.

Subd. 3. Mental or physical examination; chemical dependency evaluation. (a) If the board (1) has probable cause to believe that an applicant or licensee has violated a statute or rule enforced by the board or an order issued by the board; and (2) believes the applicant may have a health-related condition relevant to the violation, the board may issue an order directing the applicant or licensee to submit to one or more of the following: a mental examination, a physical examination, or a chemical dependency evaluation.

(b) An examination or evaluation order issued by the board must include:

(1) factual specifications on which the order is based;

(2) the purpose of the examination or evaluation;

(3) the name of the person or entity that will conduct the examination or evaluation; and

(4) the means by which the examination or evaluation will be paid for.

(c) Every applicant or licensee must submit to a mental examination, a physical examination, or a chemical dependency evaluation when ordered to do so in writing by the board.

(d) By submitting to a mental examination, a physical examination, or a chemical dependency evaluation, an applicant or licensee waives all objections to the admissibility of the examiner or evaluator's testimony or reports on the grounds that the testimony or reports constitute a privileged communication.

Subd. 4. Failure to submit to an examination. (a) If an applicant or licensee fails to submit to an examination or evaluation ordered by the board according to subdivision 3, unless the failure was due to circumstances beyond the control of the applicant or licensee, the failure is an admission that the applicant or licensee violated a statute or rule enforced by the board as specified in the examination or evaluation order issued by the board. The failure may result in an application being denied or other adversarial, corrective, or disciplinary action being taken by the board without a contested case hearing.

(b) If an applicant or licensee requests a contested case hearing after the board denies an application or takes other disciplinary or adversarial action, the only issues which may be determined at the hearing are:

(1) whether the board had probable cause to issue the examination or evaluation order; and

(2) whether the failure to submit to the examination or evaluation was due to circumstances beyond the control of the applicant or licensee.

(c) Neither the record of a proceeding under this subdivision nor an order issued by the board may be admissible, subject to subpoena, or be used against the applicant or licensee in a proceeding in which the board is not a party or decision maker.

(d) Information obtained under this subdivision must be treated as private data under chapter 13. An order issued by the board as the result of an applicant's or licensee's failure to submit to an examination or evaluation must be treated as public data under chapter 13.

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Subd. 5. Access to data and records. (a) In addition to ordering a physical or mental examination or chemical dependency evaluation, and notwithstanding section 13.384, 144.651, 595.02, or any other statute limiting access to health records, the board or a designated member of the board acting on behalf of the board may subpoena physical, mental, and chemical dependency health records relating to an applicant or licensee without the applicant's or licensee's consent if:

(1) the board has probable cause to believe that the applicant or licensee has violated chapter 214, a statute or rule enforced by the board, or an order issued by the board; and

(2) the board has reason to believe that the records are relevant and necessary to the investigation.

(b) An applicant, licensee, insurance company, government agency, health care facility, or provider as defined in section 144.335, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), must comply with any subpoena of the board under this subdivision and is not liable in any action for damages for releasing information subpoenaed by the board under this subdivision unless the information provided is false and the person or entity providing the information knew or had reason to know that the information was false.

(c) Information on individuals obtained under this subdivision must be treated as investigative data under section 13.41 and be classified as confidential data.

(d) If an applicant, licensee, person, or entity does not comply with any subpoena of the board under this subdivision, the board may institute a proceeding in any district court to enforce the board's subpoena.

Subd. 6. Evidence of past sexual conduct. If, in a proceeding for taking action against an applicant or licensee under this section, the charges involve sexual contact with a client or former client, the board or administrative law judge must not consider evidence of the client's or former client's previous sexual conduct. Reference to the client's or former client's previous sexual conduct must not be made during the proceedings or in the findings, except by motion of the complainant, unless the evidence would be admissible under the applicable provisions of section 609.347, subdivision 3.

Subd. 7. Investigations involving vulnerable adults or children in need of protection. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), if the board receives a complaint about a social worker regarding the social worker's involvement in a case of vulnerable adults or children in need of protection, the county or other appropriate public authority may request that the board suspend its investigation, and the board must comply until such time as the court issues its findings on the case.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), the board may continue with an investigation if the board determines that doing so is in the best interests of the vulnerable adult or a child in need of protection and is consistent with the board's obligation to protect the public. If the board chooses to continue an investigation, the board must notify the county or other appropriate public authority in writing and state its reasons for doing so.

Subd. 8. Notification of complainant. (a) In no more than 14 calendar days after receiving a complaint regarding a licensee, the board must notify the complainant that the board has received the complaint.

(b) The board must periodically notify the complainant of the status of the complaint.

Subd. 9. Notification of licensee. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), in no more than 60 calendar days after receiving a complaint regarding a licensee, the board must notify the licensee that the board has received the complaint and inform the licensee of:

(1) the substance of the complaint;

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(2) the sections of the law that allegedly have been violated; and

(3) whether an investigation is being conducted.

(b) Paragraph (a) does not apply if:

(1) the board determines that such notice would compromise the board's investigation according to section 214.10; or

(2) the board determines that such notice cannot reasonably be accomplished within this time.

Subd. 10. Resolution of complaints. In no more than one year after receiving a complaint regarding a licensee, the board must resolve or dismiss the complaint unless the board determines that resolving or dismissing the complaint cannot reasonably be accomplished within this time.

Sec. 113. [148E.250] OBLIGATION TO COOPERATE.

Subdivision 1. Obligation to cooperate. An applicant or licensee who is the subject of an investigation, or who is questioned by or on behalf of the board in connection with an investigation, must cooperate fully with the investigation. Cooperation includes, but is not limited to:

(1) responding fully and promptly to any question relating to the investigation;

(2) as reasonably requested by the board, providing copies of client and other records in the applicant's or licensee's possession relating to the investigation;

(3) executing release of records as reasonably requested by the board; and

(4) appearing at conferences, hearings, or meetings scheduled by the board, as required in sections 148E.255 to 148E.270 and chapter 214.

Subd. 2. Investigation. A social worker must not knowingly withhold relevant information, give false or misleading information, or do anything to obstruct an investigation of the social worker or another social worker by the board or by another state or federal regulatory or law enforcement authority.

Subd. 3. Payment for copies. The board must pay for copies requested by the board.

Subd. 4. Access to client records. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, an applicant or licensee must allow the board access to any records of a client provided services by the applicant or licensee under investigation. If the client has not signed a consent permitting access to the client's records, the applicant or licensee must delete any data in the records that identifies the client before providing the records to the board.

Subd. 5. Classification of data. Any records obtained according to this subdivision must be treated as investigative data according to section 13.41 and be classified as confidential data.

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Sec. 114. [148E.255] TYPES OF ACTIONS.

Subdivision 1. Actions. The board may take disciplinary action according to section 148E.260, adversarial but nondisciplinary action according to section 148E.265, or voluntary action according to section 148E.270. Any action taken under sections 148E.260 to 148E.270 is public data.

Subd. 2. Disciplinary action. For purposes of section 148E.260, "disciplinary action" means an action taken by the board against an applicant or licensee that addresses a complaint alleging a violation of a statute or rule the board is empowered to enforce.

Subd. 3. Adversarial but nondisciplinary action. For purposes of section 148E.265, "adversarial but nondisciplinary action" means a nondisciplinary action taken by the board that addresses a complaint alleging a violation of a statute or rule the board is empowered to enforce.

Subd. 4. Voluntary action. For purposes of section 148E.270, "voluntary action" means a nondisciplinary action agreed to by the board or a designated board member and an applicant or licensee that, through educational or other corrective means, addresses a complaint alleging a violation of a statute or rule that the board is empowered to enforce.

Sec. 115. [148E.260] DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS.

Subdivision 1. General disciplinary actions. (a) When the board has grounds for disciplinary actions under this chapter, the board may take one or more of the following disciplinary actions:

(1) deny an application;

(2) permanently revoke a license to practice social work;

(3) indefinitely or temporarily suspend a license to practice social work;

(4) impose restrictions on a licensee's scope of practice;

(5) impose conditions required for the licensee to maintain licensure, including, but not limited to, additional education, supervision, and requiring the passing of an examination provided for in section 148E.055;

(6) reprimand a licensee;

(7) impose a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for each violation in order to discourage future violations or to deprive the licensee of any economic advantage gained by reason of the violation; or

(8) impose a fee to reimburse the board for all or part of the cost of the proceedings resulting in disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, the amount paid by the board for services received from or expenses incurred by the Office of Administrative Hearings, the Office of the Attorney General, court reporters, witnesses, board members, board staff, or the amount paid by the board for reproducing records.

(b) Disciplinary action taken by the board under this subdivision is in effect pending determination of an appeal unless the court, upon petition and for good cause shown, decides otherwise.

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Subd. 2. Reprimands. (a) In addition to the board's authority to issue a reprimand according to subdivision 1, a designated board member reviewing a complaint as provided for in chapter 214 may issue a reprimand to a licensee. The designated board member must notify the licensee that the reprimand will become final disciplinary action unless the licensee requests a hearing by the board within 14 calendar days.

(b) If the licensee requests a hearing within 14 calendar days, the board must schedule a hearing unless the designated board member withdraws the reprimand.

(d) The designated board member who issued the reprimand may participate in the hearing but must not deliberate or vote on the decision by the board.

(e) The only evidence permitted at the hearing is affidavits or other documents except for testimony by the licensee or other witnesses whose testimony the board chair has authorized for good cause.

(f) If testimony is authorized, the testimony is subject to cross-examination.

(g) After the hearing, the board must affirm or dismiss the reprimand.

Subd. 3. Temporary suspensions. (a) In addition to any other remedy provided by statute, the board or a designated board member may, without a hearing, temporarily suspend a license to practice social work if the board or the designated board member finds that:

(1) the licensee has violated a statute or rule enforced by the board, any other federal or state law or rule related to the practice of social work, or an order, stipulation, or agreement agreed to or issued by the board; and

(2) continued practice by the licensee would create a serious risk of harm to others.

(b) The suspension is in effect upon service of a written order on the licensee specifying the statute, rule, order, stipulation, or agreement violated. Service of the order is effective if the order is served on the licensee or the licensee's attorney personally or by first class mail to the most recent address provided to the board for the licensee or the licensee's attorney.

(c) The temporary suspension remains in effect until after the board issues an order according to paragraph (e), or if there is a contested case hearing, after the board issues a written final order according to paragraph (g).

(d) If the licensee requests in writing within five calendar days of service of the order that the board hold a hearing, the board must hold a hearing on the sole issue of whether to continue, modify, or lift the suspension. The board must hold the hearing within ten working days of receipt of the licensee's written request. Evidence presented by the board or licensee must be in affidavit form only, except that the licensee or the licensee's attorney may present oral argument.

(e) Within five working days after the hearing, the board must issue its order. If the licensee contests the order, the board must schedule a contested case hearing under chapter 14. The contested case hearing must be scheduled to occur within 45 calendar days after issuance of the order.

(f) The administrative law judge must issue a report within 30 calendar days after the contested case hearing is concluded.

(g) The board must issue a final order within 30 calendar days after the board receives the administrative law judge's report.

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Sec. 116. [148E.265] ADVERSARIAL BUT NONDISCIPLINARY ACTIONS.

Subdivision 1. Automatic suspensions. (a) A license to practice social work is automatically suspended if:

(1) a guardian of a licensee is appointed by order of a court according to sections 524.5-101 and 524.5-102; or

(2) the licensee is committed by order of a court according to chapter 253B.

(b) A license remains suspended until:

(1) the licensee is restored to capacity by a court; and

(2) upon petition by the licensee and after a hearing or an agreement with the licensee, the board terminates the suspension.

(c) If the board terminates the suspension, it may do so with or without conditions or restrictions, including, but not limited to, participation in the health professional services program.

Subd. 2. Cease and desist orders. (a) The board or a designated board member may issue a cease and desist order to stop a person from engaging in unauthorized practice or from violating or threatening to violate a statute or rule enforced by the board or an order, stipulation, or agreement agreed to or issued by the board.

(b) The cease and desist order must state the reason for its issuance and give notice of the person's right to request a hearing under sections 14.57 to 14.62. If the person fails to request a hearing in writing postmarked within 15 calendar days after service of the cease and desist order, the order is the final order of the board and is not reviewable by a court or agency.

(c) If the board receives a written request for a hearing postmarked within 15 calendar days after service of the cease and desist order, the board must schedule a hearing within 30 calendar days of receiving the request.

(d) The administrative law judge must issue a report within 30 calendar days after the contested case hearing is concluded.

(e) Within 30 calendar days after the board receives the administrative law judge's report, the board must issue a final order modifying, vacating, or making permanent the cease and desist order. The final order remains in effect until modified or vacated by the board.

(f) If a person does not comply with a cease and desist order, the board may institute a proceeding in any district court to obtain injunctive relief or other appropriate relief, including but not limited to, a civil penalty payable to the board of up to $10,000 for each violation.

(g) A cease and desist order issued according to this subdivision does not relieve a person from criminal prosecution by a competent authority or from disciplinary action by the board.

Subd. 3. Injunctive relief. (a) In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the board may bring an action in district court for injunctive relief to restrain any unauthorized practice or violation or threatened violation of any statute or rule, stipulation, or agreement agreed to or enforced by the board or an order issued by the board.

(b) A temporary restraining order may be granted in the proceeding if continued activity by a person would create an imminent risk of harm to others.

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(c) Injunctive relief granted according to this subdivision does not relieve a person from criminal prosecution by a competent authority or from disciplinary action by the board.

(d) In bringing an action for injunctive relief, the board need not show irreparable harm.

Sec. 117. [148E.270] VOLUNTARY ACTIONS.

Subdivision 1. Agreements for corrective action. (a) The board or a designated board member may enter into an agreement for corrective action with an applicant or licensee when the board or a designated board member determines that a complaint alleging a violation of a statute or rule enforced by the board or an order issued by the board may best be resolved through an agreement for corrective action when disciplinary action is not required to protect the public.

(b) An agreement for corrective action must:

(1) be in writing;

(2) specify the facts upon which the agreement is based;

(3) clearly indicate the corrective action agreed upon; and

(4) provide that the complaint that resulted in the agreement must be dismissed by the board or the designated board member upon successful completion of the corrective action.

(c) The board or designated board member may determine successful completion when the applicant or licensee submits a request for dismissal that documents the applicant's or licensee's successful completion of the corrective action. The burden of proof is on the applicant or licensee to prove successful completion.

(d) An agreement for corrective action is not disciplinary action but must be treated as public data under chapter 13.

(e) The board may impose a fee to reimburse the board for all or part of the costs of the proceedings resulting in a corrective action, including, but not limited to, the amount paid by the board for services received from or expenses incurred by the Office of the Attorney General, board members, board staff, or the amount paid by the board for reproducing records.

(f) The board or designated board member must not enter into an agreement for corrective action when the complaint alleged sexual conduct with a client unless there is insufficient evidence to justify disciplinary action but there is a basis for corrective action.

Subd. 2. Stipulations to cease practicing social work. (a) The board or a designated board member may enter into a stipulation to cease practicing social work with a licensee if the board or designated board member determines that the licensee is unable to practice social work competently or safely or that the social worker's continued practice creates an unacceptable risk of safety to clients, potential clients, or the public.

(b) A stipulation to cease practicing social work must:

(1) be in writing;

(2) specify the facts upon which the stipulation is based;

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(3) clearly indicate that the licensee must not practice social work and must not hold out to the public that the social worker is licensed; and

(4) specify the term of the stipulation or when and under what circumstances the licensee may petition the board for termination of the stipulation.

(c) A stipulation to cease practicing social work is not disciplinary action but must be treated as public data under chapter 13.

(d) Nothing in this subdivision prevents the board or designated board member from taking any other disciplinary or adversarial action authorized by sections 148E.255 to 148E.265 in lieu of or in addition to entering into a stipulation to cease practicing social work.

Sec. 118. [148E.275] UNAUTHORIZED PRACTICE.

No individual may:

(1) engage in the practice of social work without a social work license under sections 148E.055 and 148E.060, except when the individual is exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065;

(2) provide social work services to a client who resides in this state when the individual providing the services is not licensed as a social worker according to sections 148E.055 to 148E.060, except when the individual is exempt from licensure according to section 148E.065.

Sec. 119. [148E.280] USE OF TITLES.

No individual may be presented to the public by any title incorporating the words "social work" or "social worker" or in the titles in section 148E.195, unless that individual holds a license under sections 148E.055 and 148E.060, or practices in a setting exempt from licensure under section 148E.065.

Sec. 120. [148E.285] REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

Subdivision 1. Institutions. A state agency, political subdivision, agency of a local unit of government, private agency, hospital, clinic, prepaid medical plan, or other health care institution or organization must report to the board:

(1) any adversarial action, disciplinary action, or other sanction for conduct that might constitute grounds for action under section 148E.190;

(2) the resignation of any applicant or licensee prior to the conclusion of any proceeding for adversarial action, disciplinary action, or other sanction for conduct that might constitute grounds for action under section 148E.190; or

(3) the resignation of any applicant or licensee prior to the commencement of a proceeding for adversarial action, disciplinary action, or other sanction for conduct that might constitute grounds for action under section 148E.190, but after the applicant or licensee had knowledge that a proceeding was contemplated or in preparation.

Subd. 2. Professional societies and associations. A state or local professional society or association whose members consist primarily of licensed social workers must report to the board any adversarial action, disciplinary action, or other sanction taken against a member.

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Subd. 3. Immunity. An individual, professional society or association, state agency, political subdivision, agency of a local unit of government, private agency, hospital, clinic, prepaid medical plan, other health care institution or organization, or other entity is immune from civil liability or criminal prosecution for submitting in good faith a report under subdivision 1 or 2 or for otherwise reporting, providing information, or testifying about violations or alleged violations of this chapter.

Sec. 121. [148E.290] PENALTIES.

An individual or other entity that violates section 148E.275, 148E.280, or 148E.285 is guilty of a misdemeanor.

Sec. 122. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 151.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 31. Electronic signature. "Electronic signature" means an electronic sound, symbol, or process attached to or associated with a record and executed or adopted by a person with the intent to sign the record.

Sec. 123. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 151.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 32. Electronic transmission. "Electronic transmission" means transmission of information in electronic form.

Sec. 124. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 151.06, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Generally; rules. (a) Powers and duties. The Board of Pharmacy shall have the power and it shall be its duty:

(1) to regulate the practice of pharmacy;

(2) to regulate the manufacture, wholesale, and retail sale of drugs within this state;

(3) to regulate the identity, labeling, purity, and quality of all drugs and medicines dispensed in this state, using the United States Pharmacopeia and the National Formulary, or any revisions thereof, or standards adopted under the federal act as the standard;

(4) to enter and inspect by its authorized representative any and all places where drugs, medicines, medical gases, or veterinary drugs or devices are sold, vended, given away, compounded, dispensed, manufactured, wholesaled, or held; it may secure samples or specimens of any drugs, medicines, medical gases, or veterinary drugs or devices after paying or offering to pay for such sample; it shall be entitled to inspect and make copies of any and all records of shipment, purchase, manufacture, quality control, and sale of these items provided, however, that such inspection shall not extend to financial data, sales data, or pricing data;

(5) to examine and license as pharmacists all applicants whom it shall deem qualified to be such;

(6) to license wholesale drug distributors;

(7) to deny, suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew any registration or license required under this chapter, to any applicant or registrant or licensee upon any of the following grounds:

(i) fraud or deception in connection with the securing of such license or registration;

(ii) in the case of a pharmacist, conviction in any court of a felony;

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(iii) in the case of a pharmacist, conviction in any court of an offense involving moral turpitude;

(iv) habitual indulgence in the use of narcotics, stimulants, or depressant drugs; or habitual indulgence in intoxicating liquors in a manner which could cause conduct endangering public health;

(v) unprofessional conduct or conduct endangering public health;

(vi) gross immorality;

(vii) employing, assisting, or enabling in any manner an unlicensed person to practice pharmacy;

(viii) conviction of theft of drugs, or the unauthorized use, possession, or sale thereof;

(ix) violation of any of the provisions of this chapter or any of the rules of the State Board of Pharmacy;

(x) in the case of a pharmacy license, operation of such pharmacy without a pharmacist present and on duty;

(xi) in the case of a pharmacist, physical or mental disability which could cause incompetency in the practice of pharmacy;

(xii) in the case of a pharmacist, the suspension or revocation of a license to practice pharmacy in another state; or

(xiii) in the case of a pharmacist, aiding suicide or aiding attempted suicide in violation of section 609.215 as established by any of the following:

(A) a copy of the record of criminal conviction or plea of guilty for a felony in violation of section 609.215, subdivision 1 or 2;

(B) a copy of the record of a judgment of contempt of court for violating an injunction issued under section 609.215, subdivision 4;

(D) a finding by the board that the person violated section 609.215, subdivision 1 or 2. The board shall investigate any complaint of a violation of section 609.215, subdivision 1 or 2;

(8) to employ necessary assistants and ~~make~~ adopt rules for the conduct of its business;

(9) to register as pharmacy technicians all applicants who the board determines are qualified to carry out the duties of a pharmacy technician; and

(10) to perform such other duties and exercise such other powers as the provisions of the act may require.

(b) Temporary suspension. In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the board may, without a hearing, temporarily suspend a license for not more than 60 days if the board finds that a pharmacist has violated a statute or rule that the board is empowered to enforce and continued practice by the pharmacist would create an imminent risk of harm to others. The suspension shall take effect upon written notice to the pharmacist, specifying the statute or rule violated. At the time it issues the suspension notice, the board shall schedule a disciplinary hearing to be held under the Administrative Procedure Act. The pharmacist shall be provided with at least 20 days' notice of any hearing held under this subdivision.

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(c) Rules. For the purposes aforesaid, it shall be the duty of the board to make and publish uniform rules not inconsistent herewith for carrying out and enforcing the provisions of this chapter. The board shall adopt rules regarding prospective drug utilization review and patient counseling by pharmacists. A pharmacist in the exercise of the pharmacist's professional judgment, upon the presentation of a new prescription by a patient or the patient's caregiver or agent, shall perform the prospective drug utilization review required by rules issued under this subdivision.

Sec. 125. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 151.21, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Generally. Except as provided in this section, it shall be unlawful for any pharmacist~~, assistant pharmacist,~~ or pharmacist intern who dispenses prescriptions, drugs, and medicines to substitute an article different from the one ordered, or deviate in any manner from the requirements of an order or prescription without the approval of the prescriber.

Sec. 126. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 151.21, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. Brand name specified. When a pharmacist receives a ~~written~~ paper or hard copy prescription on which the prescriber has personally written in handwriting "dispense as written" or "D.A.W.," a prescription sent by electronic transmission on which the prescriber has expressly indicated in a manner consistent with the standards for electronic prescribing under Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 423, that the prescription is to be dispensed as transmitted and which bears the prescriber's electronic signature, or an oral prescription in which the prescriber has expressly indicated that the prescription is to be dispensed as communicated, the pharmacist shall dispense the brand name legend drug as prescribed.

Sec. 127. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 151.21, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. Brand name not specified. When a pharmacist receives a ~~written~~ paper or hard copy prescription on which the prescriber has not personally written in handwriting "dispense as written" or "D.A.W.," a prescription sent by electronic transmission on which the prescriber has not expressly indicated in a manner consistent with the standards for electronic prescribing under Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 423, that the prescription is to be dispensed as transmitted and which bears the prescriber's electronic signature, or an oral prescription in which the prescriber has not expressly indicated that the prescription is to be dispensed as communicated, and there is available in the pharmacist's stock a less expensive generically equivalent drug that, in the pharmacist's professional judgment, is safely interchangeable with the prescribed drug, then the pharmacist shall, after disclosing the substitution to the purchaser, dispense the generic drug, unless the purchaser objects. A pharmacist may also substitute pursuant to the oral instructions of the prescriber. A pharmacist may not substitute a generically equivalent drug product unless, in the pharmacist's professional judgment, the substituted drug is therapeutically equivalent and interchangeable to the prescribed drug. A pharmacist shall notify the purchaser if the pharmacist is dispensing a drug other than the brand name drug prescribed.

Sec. 128. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 151.21, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 3a. Prescriptions by electronic transmission. Nothing in this section permits a prescriber to maintain "dispense as written" or "D.A.W." as a default on all prescriptions. Prescribers must add the "dispense as written" or "D.A.W." designation to electronic prescriptions individually, as appropriate.

Sec. 129. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 214.103, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. Dismissal of a complaint. A complaint may not be dismissed without the concurrence of at least two board members, and a review by a representative of the attorney general's office. ~~The designee of the attorney general must review before dismissal any complaints which allege any violation of chapter 609, any conduct which~~

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would be required to be reported under section 626.556 or 626.557, any sexual contact or sexual conduct with a client, any violation of a federal law, any actual or potential inability to practice the regulated profession or occupation by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental or physical condition, any violation of state medical assistance laws, or any disciplinary action related to credentialing in another jurisdiction or country which was based on the same or related conduct specified in this subdivision.

Sec. 130. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 214.103, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. Information to complainant. A board shall furnish to a person who made a complaint a written description of the board's complaint process, as well as the actions of the board relating to the complaint.

Sec. 131. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 214.32, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Management. (a) A Health Professionals Services Program Committee is established, consisting of one person appointed by each participating board, with each participating board having one vote. The committee shall designate one board to provide administrative management of the program, set the program budget and the pro rata share of program expenses to be borne by each participating board, provide guidance on the general operation of the program, including hiring of program personnel, and ensure that the program's direction is in accord with its authority. If the participating boards change which board is designated to provide administrative management of the program, any appropriation remaining for the program shall transfer to the newly designated board on the effective date of the change. The participating boards must inform the appropriate legislative committees and the commissioner of finance of any change in the administrative management of the program, and the amount of any appropriation transferred under this provision.

(b) The designated board, upon recommendation of the Health Professional Services Program Committee, shall hire the program manager and employees and pay expenses of the program from funds appropriated for that purpose. The designated board may apply for grants to pay program expenses and may enter into contracts on behalf of the program to carry out the purposes of the program. The participating boards shall enter into written agreements with the designated board.

(1) one member appointed by each of the following: the Minnesota Academy of Physician Assistants, the Minnesota Dental Association, the Minnesota Chiropractic Association, the Minnesota Licensed Practical Nurse Association, the Minnesota Medical Association, the Minnesota Nurses Association, and the Minnesota Podiatric Medicine Association;

(2) one member appointed by each of the professional associations of the other professions regulated by a participating board not specified in clause (1); and

(3) two public members, as defined by section 214.02.

Members of the advisory committee shall be appointed for two years and members may be reappointed.

~~The advisory committee expires June 30, 2007.~~

Sec. 132. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 245.462, subdivision 18, is amended to read:

Subd. 18. Mental health professional. "Mental health professional" means a person providing clinical services in the treatment of mental illness who is qualified in at least one of the following ways:

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(1) in psychiatric nursing: a registered nurse who is licensed under sections 148.171 to 148.285; and:

(i) who is certified as a clinical specialist or as a nurse practitioner in adult or family psychiatric and mental health nursing by a national nurse certification organization; or

(ii) who has a master's degree in nursing or one of the behavioral sciences or related fields from an accredited college or university or its equivalent, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(2) in clinical social work: a person licensed as an independent clinical social worker under chapter 148D, or a person with a master's degree in social work from an accredited college or university, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(3) in psychology: an individual licensed by the Board of Psychology under sections 148.88 to 148.98 who has stated to the Board of Psychology competencies in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness;

(4) in psychiatry: a physician licensed under chapter 147 and certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology or eligible for board certification in psychiatry;

(5) in marriage and family therapy: the mental health professional must be a marriage and family therapist licensed under sections 148B.29 to 148B.39 with at least two years of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness; or

(6) in licensed professional clinical counseling, the mental health professional must be a licensed professional clinical counselor under section 148B.5301; or

(7) in allied fields: a person with a master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the behavioral sciences or related fields, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness.

Sec. 133. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 245.470, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Availability of outpatient services. (a) County boards must provide or contract for enough outpatient services within the county to meet the needs of adults with mental illness residing in the county. Services may be provided directly by the county through county-operated mental health centers or mental health clinics approved by the commissioner under section 245.69, subdivision 2; by contract with privately operated mental health centers or mental health clinics approved by the commissioner under section 245.69, subdivision 2; by contract with hospital mental health outpatient programs certified by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospital Organizations; or by contract with a licensed mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to ~~(4)~~ (6). Clients may be required to pay a fee according to section 245.481. Outpatient services include:

(1) conducting diagnostic assessments;

(2) conducting psychological testing;

(3) developing or modifying individual treatment plans;

(4) making referrals and recommending placements as appropriate;

(5) treating an adult's mental health needs through therapy;

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(6) prescribing and managing medication and evaluating the effectiveness of prescribed medication; and

(7) preventing placement in settings that are more intensive, costly, or restrictive than necessary and appropriate to meet client needs.

(b) County boards may request a waiver allowing outpatient services to be provided in a nearby trade area if it is determined that the client can best be served outside the county.

Sec. 134. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 245.4871, subdivision 27, is amended to read:

Subd. 27. Mental health professional. "Mental health professional" means a person providing clinical services in the diagnosis and treatment of children's emotional disorders. A mental health professional must have training and experience in working with children consistent with the age group to which the mental health professional is assigned. A mental health professional must be qualified in at least one of the following ways:

(1) in psychiatric nursing, the mental health professional must be a registered nurse who is licensed under sections 148.171 to 148.285 and who is certified as a clinical specialist in child and adolescent psychiatric or mental health nursing by a national nurse certification organization or who has a master's degree in nursing or one of the behavioral sciences or related fields from an accredited college or university or its equivalent, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(2) in clinical social work, the mental health professional must be a person licensed as an independent clinical social worker under chapter 148D, or a person with a master's degree in social work from an accredited college or university, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental disorders;

(3) in psychology, the mental health professional must be an individual licensed by the board of psychology under sections 148.88 to 148.98 who has stated to the board of psychology competencies in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders;

(4) in psychiatry, the mental health professional must be a physician licensed under chapter 147 and certified by the American board of psychiatry and neurology or eligible for board certification in psychiatry;

(5) in marriage and family therapy, the mental health professional must be a marriage and family therapist licensed under sections 148B.29 to 148B.39 with at least two years of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental disorders or emotional disturbances; or

(6) in licensed professional clinical counseling, the mental health professional must be a licensed professional clinical counselor under section 148B.5301; or

(7) in allied fields, the mental health professional must be a person with a master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the behavioral sciences or related fields, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of emotional disturbances.

Sec. 135. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 245.488, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Availability of outpatient services. (a) County boards must provide or contract for enough outpatient services within the county to meet the needs of each child with emotional disturbance residing in the county and the child's family. Services may be provided directly by the county through county-operated mental health centers or mental health clinics approved by the commissioner under section 245.69, subdivision 2; by contract with privately operated mental health centers or mental health clinics approved by the commissioner under

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section 245.69, subdivision 2; by contract with hospital mental health outpatient programs certified by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospital Organizations; or by contract with a licensed mental health professional as defined in section 245.4871, subdivision 27, clauses (1) to ~~(4)~~ (6). A child or a child's parent may be required to pay a fee based in accordance with section 245.481. Outpatient services include:

(1) conducting diagnostic assessments;

(2) conducting psychological testing;

(3) developing or modifying individual treatment plans;

(4) making referrals and recommending placements as appropriate;

(5) treating the child's mental health needs through therapy; and

(6) prescribing and managing medication and evaluating the effectiveness of prescribed medication.

(b) County boards may request a waiver allowing outpatient services to be provided in a nearby trade area if it is determined that the child requires necessary and appropriate services that are only available outside the county.

(c) Outpatient services offered by the county board to prevent placement must be at the level of treatment appropriate to the child's diagnostic assessment.

Sec. 136. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 256B.0623, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. Qualifications of provider staff. Adult rehabilitative mental health services must be provided by qualified individual provider staff of a certified provider entity. Individual provider staff must be qualified under one of the following criteria:

(1) a mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to (5). If the recipient has a current diagnostic assessment by a licensed mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to ~~(5)~~ (6), recommending receipt of adult mental health rehabilitative services, the definition of mental health professional for purposes of this section includes a person who is qualified under section 245.462, subdivision 18, clause ~~(6)~~ (7), and who holds a current and valid national certification as a certified rehabilitation counselor or certified psychosocial rehabilitation practitioner;

(2) a mental health practitioner as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 17. The mental health practitioner must work under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional; or

(3) a mental health rehabilitation worker. A mental health rehabilitation worker means a staff person working under the direction of a mental health practitioner or mental health professional and under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional in the implementation of rehabilitative mental health services as identified in the recipient's individual treatment plan who:

(i) is at least 21 years of age;

(ii) has a high school diploma or equivalent;

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(iii) has successfully completed 30 hours of training during the past two years in all of the following areas: recipient rights, recipient-centered individual treatment planning, behavioral terminology, mental illness, co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse, psychotropic medications and side effects, functional assessment, local community resources, adult vulnerability, recipient confidentiality; and

(iv) meets the qualifications in subitem (A) or (B):

(A) has an associate of arts degree in one of the behavioral sciences or human services, or is a registered nurse without a bachelor's degree, or who within the previous ten years has:

(1) three years of personal life experience with serious and persistent mental illness;

(2) three years of life experience as a primary caregiver to an adult with a serious mental illness or traumatic brain injury; or

(3) 4,000 hours of supervised paid work experience in the delivery of mental health services to adults with a serious mental illness or traumatic brain injury; or

(B)(1) is fluent in the non-English language or competent in the culture of the ethnic group to which at least 20 percent of the mental health rehabilitation worker's clients belong;

(2) receives during the first 2,000 hours of work, monthly documented individual clinical supervision by a mental health professional;

(3) has 18 hours of documented field supervision by a mental health professional or practitioner during the first 160 hours of contact work with recipients, and at least six hours of field supervision quarterly during the following year;

(4) has review and cosignature of charting of recipient contacts during field supervision by a mental health professional or practitioner; and

(5) has 40 hours of additional continuing education on mental health topics during the first year of employment.

Sec. 137. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 256B.0624, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. Mobile crisis intervention staff qualifications. For provision of adult mental health mobile crisis intervention services, a mobile crisis intervention team is comprised of at least two mental health professionals as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to ~~(5)~~ (6), or a combination of at least one mental health professional and one mental health practitioner as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 17, with the required mental health crisis training and under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional on the team. The team must have at least two people with at least one member providing on-site crisis intervention services when needed. Team members must be experienced in mental health assessment, crisis intervention techniques, and clinical decision-making under emergency conditions and have knowledge of local services and resources. The team must recommend and coordinate the team's services with appropriate local resources such as the county social services agency, mental health services, and local law enforcement when necessary.

Sec. 138. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 256B.0624, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. Adult crisis stabilization staff qualifications. (a) Adult mental health crisis stabilization services must be provided by qualified individual staff of a qualified provider entity. Individual provider staff must have the following qualifications:

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(1) be a mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to ~~(5)~~ (6);

(2) be a mental health practitioner as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 17. The mental health practitioner must work under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional; or

(3) be a mental health rehabilitation worker who meets the criteria in section 256B.0623, subdivision 5, clause (3); works under the direction of a mental health practitioner as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 17, or under direction of a mental health professional; and works under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional.

(b) Mental health practitioners and mental health rehabilitation workers must have completed at least 30 hours of training in crisis intervention and stabilization during the past two years.

Sec. 139. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 256B.0943, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. Definitions. For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given them.

(a) "Children's therapeutic services and supports" means the flexible package of mental health services for children who require varying therapeutic and rehabilitative levels of intervention. The services are time-limited interventions that are delivered using various treatment modalities and combinations of services designed to reach treatment outcomes identified in the individual treatment plan.

(b) "Clinical supervision" means the overall responsibility of the mental health professional for the control and direction of individualized treatment planning, service delivery, and treatment review for each client. A mental health professional who is an enrolled Minnesota health care program provider accepts full professional responsibility for a supervisee's actions and decisions, instructs the supervisee in the supervisee's work, and oversees or directs the supervisee's work.

(c) "County board" means the county board of commissioners or board established under sections 402.01 to 402.10 or 471.59.

(d) "Crisis assistance" has the meaning given in section 245.4871, subdivision 9a.

(e) "Culturally competent provider" means a provider who understands and can utilize to a client's benefit the client's culture when providing services to the client. A provider may be culturally competent because the provider is of the same cultural or ethnic group as the client or the provider has developed the knowledge and skills through training and experience to provide services to culturally diverse clients.

(f) "Day treatment program" for children means a site-based structured program consisting of group psychotherapy for more than three individuals and other intensive therapeutic services provided by a multidisciplinary team, under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional.

(g) "Diagnostic assessment" has the meaning given in section 245.4871, subdivision 11.

(h) "Direct service time" means the time that a mental health professional, mental health practitioner, or mental health behavioral aide spends face-to-face with a client and the client's family. Direct service time includes time in which the provider obtains a client's history or provides service components of children's therapeutic services and supports. Direct service time does not include time doing work before and after providing direct services, including scheduling, maintaining clinical records, consulting with others about the client's mental health status, preparing reports, receiving clinical supervision directly related to the client's psychotherapy session, and revising the client's individual treatment plan.

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(i) "Direction of mental health behavioral aide" means the activities of a mental health professional or mental health practitioner in guiding the mental health behavioral aide in providing services to a client. The direction of a mental health behavioral aide must be based on the client's individualized treatment plan and meet the requirements in subdivision 6, paragraph (b), clause (5).

(j) "Emotional disturbance" has the meaning given in section 245.4871, subdivision 15. For persons at least age 18 but under age 21, mental illness has the meaning given in section 245.462, subdivision 20, paragraph (a).

(k) "Individual behavioral plan" means a plan of intervention, treatment, and services for a child written by a mental health professional or mental health practitioner, under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional, to guide the work of the mental health behavioral aide.

(l) "Individual treatment plan" has the meaning given in section 245.4871, subdivision 21.

(m) "Mental health professional" means an individual as defined in section 245.4871, subdivision 27, clauses (1) to ~~(5)~~ (6), or tribal vendor as defined in section 256B.02, subdivision 7, paragraph (b).

(n) "Preschool program" means a day program licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 9503.0005 to 9503.0175, and enrolled as a children's therapeutic services and supports provider to provide a structured treatment program to a child who is at least 33 months old but who has not yet attended the first day of kindergarten.

(o) "Skills training" means individual, family, or group training designed to improve the basic functioning of the child with emotional disturbance and the child's family in the activities of daily living and community living, and to improve the social functioning of the child and the child's family in areas important to the child's maintaining or reestablishing residency in the community. Individual, family, and group skills training must:

(1) consist of activities designed to promote skill development of the child and the child's family in the use of age-appropriate daily living skills, interpersonal and family relationships, and leisure and recreational services;

(2) consist of activities that will assist the family's understanding of normal child development and to use parenting skills that will help the child with emotional disturbance achieve the goals outlined in the child's individual treatment plan; and

(3) promote family preservation and unification, promote the family's integration with the community, and reduce the use of unnecessary out-of-home placement or institutionalization of children with emotional disturbance.

Sec. 140. Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 256J.08, subdivision 73a, is amended to read:

Subd. 73a. Qualified professional. (a) For physical illness, injury, or incapacity, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician, a physician's assistant, a nurse practitioner, or a licensed chiropractor.

(b) For developmental disability and intelligence testing, a "qualified professional" means an individual qualified by training and experience to administer the tests necessary to make determinations, such as tests of intellectual functioning, assessments of adaptive behavior, adaptive skills, and developmental functioning. These professionals include licensed psychologists, certified school psychologists, or certified psychometrists working under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.

(c) For learning disabilities, a "qualified professional" means a licensed psychologist or school psychologist with experience determining learning disabilities.

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(d) For mental health, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician or a qualified mental health professional. A "qualified mental health professional" means:

(1) for children, in psychiatric nursing, a registered nurse who is licensed under sections 148.171 to 148.285, and who is certified as a clinical specialist in child and adolescent psychiatric or mental health nursing by a national nurse certification organization or who has a master's degree in nursing or one of the behavioral sciences or related fields from an accredited college or university or its equivalent, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(2) for adults, in psychiatric nursing, a registered nurse who is licensed under sections 148.171 to 148.285, and who is certified as a clinical specialist in adult psychiatric and mental health nursing by a national nurse certification organization or who has a master's degree in nursing or one of the behavioral sciences or related fields from an accredited college or university or its equivalent, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(3) in clinical social work, a person licensed as an independent clinical social worker under chapter 148D, or a person with a master's degree in social work from an accredited college or university, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(4) in psychology, an individual licensed by the Board of Psychology under sections 148.88 to 148.98, who has stated to the Board of Psychology competencies in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness;

(5) in psychiatry, a physician licensed under chapter 147 and certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology or eligible for board certification in psychiatry; ~~and~~

(6) in marriage and family therapy, the mental health professional must be a marriage and family therapist licensed under sections 148B.29 to 148B.39, with at least two years of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness; and

(7) in licensed professional clinical counseling, the mental health professional must be a licensed professional clinical counselor under section 148B.5301.

Sec. 141. APPLICABILITY OF RULES.

Minnesota Rules, parts 5601.0100 to 5601.3200, apply both to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants, except parts 5601.1200; 5601.1300; 5601.1800; 5601.1900; 5601.2000; 5601.3200, subpart 2, item D; and 5601.3200, subpart 5, only apply to physical therapists.

Sec. 142. REPEALER.

(a) Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 148.691, subdivision 3; 148.71, subdivision 1; 148.72; 148.745; and 148.775, are repealed.

(b) Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 148D.001; 148D.010; 148D.015; 148D.020; 148D.025; 148D.030; 148D.035; 148D.040; 148D.045; 148D.050; 148D.055; 148D.060; 148D.065; 148D.070; 148D.075; 148D.080; 148D.085; 148D.090; 148D.095; 148D.100; 148D.105; 148D.110; 148D.115; 148D.120; 148D.125; 148D.130; 148D.135; 148D.140; 148D.145; 148D.150; 148D.155; 148D.160; 148D.165; 148D.170; 148D.175; 148D.180; 148D.185; 148D.190; 148D.195; 148D.200; 148D.205; 148D.210; 148D.215; 148D.220; 148D.225; 148D.230; 148D.235; 148D.240; 148D.245; 148D.250; 148D.255; 148D.260; 148D.265; 148D.270; 148D.275; 148D.280; 148D.285; and 148D.290, are repealed effective August 1, 2011.

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(c) Minnesota Rules, parts 5601.0200; 5601.0300; 5601.0400; 5601.0500; 5601.0600; 5601.0700; 5601.0800; 5601.1400; 5601.1500; 5601.1600; 5601.2800; 5601.2900; 5601.3000; 5601.3105; 5601.3110; 5601.3115; 5601.3120; 5601.3125; 5601.3130; 5601.3135; 5601.3140; 5601.3145; 5601.3150; 5601.3155; 5601.3160; and 5601.3165, are repealed.

Sec. 143. EFFECTIVE DATE.

Sections 63 to 121 are effective August 1, 2011."

Delete the title and insert:

"A bill for an act relating to health occupations; changing provisions for operating x-ray equipment examination and practice; modifying provisions for speech-language pathology and audiology; changing licensing provisions for physical therapists and physical therapy assistants; changing licensing provisions for social work; modifying practice provisions under the Board of Pharmacy; modifying health-related licensing board provisions; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 144.121, subdivision 5, by adding subdivisions; 147.037, subdivision 1; 147A.27, subdivision 2; 147B.05, subdivision 2; 147C.35, subdivision 2; 147D.25, subdivision 2; 148.515, subdivision 2, by adding a subdivision; 148.65, subdivisions 2, 3, by adding a subdivision; 148.67, subdivision 1; 148.70; 148.705; 148.706; 148.71; 148.73; 148.735; 148.736, subdivision 1; 148.74; 148.75; 148.754; 148.755; 148.76, subdivision 1; 148.78; 148B.50, subdivision 5; 148B.53, subdivisions 1, 3; 148C.12, by adding subdivisions; 148D.050, subdivision 1; 148D.055, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 5, by adding a subdivision; 148D.060, subdivisions 5, 6, 7, 13, by adding a subdivision; 148D.120, subdivision 2; 148D.125, subdivision 1; 151.01, by adding subdivisions; 151.06, subdivision 1; 151.21, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, by adding a subdivision; 214.103, subdivisions 8, 9; 214.32, subdivision 1; 245.462, subdivision 18; 245.470, subdivision 1; 245.4871, subdivision 27; 245.488, subdivision 1; 256B.0623, subdivision 5; 256B.0624, subdivisions 5, 8; 256B.0943, subdivision 1; 256J.08, subdivision 73a; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 148; 148B; 148D; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota Statutes, chapter 148E; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 148.691, subdivision 3; 148.71, subdivision 1; 148.72; 148.745; 148.775; 148D.001; 148D.010; 148D.015; 148D.020; 148D.025; 148D.030; 148D.035; 148D.040; 148D.045; 148D.050; 148D.055; 148D.060; 148D.065; 148D.070; 148D.075; 148D.080; 148D.085; 148D.090; 148D.095; 148D.100; 148D.105; 148D.110; 148D.115; 148D.120; 148D.125; 148D.130; 148D.135; 148D.140; 148D.145; 148D.150; 148D.155; 148D.160; 148D.165; 148D.170; 148D.175; 148D.180; 148D.185; 148D.190; 148D.195; 148D.200; 148D.205; 148D.210; 148D.215; 148D.220; 148D.225; 148D.230; 148D.235; 148D.240; 148D.245; 148D.250; 148D.255; 148D.260; 148D.265; 148D.270; 148D.275; 148D.280; 148D.285; 148D.290; Minnesota Rules, parts 5601.0200; 5601.0300; 5601.0400; 5601.0500; 5601.0600; 5601.0700; 5601.0800; 5601.1400; 5601.1500; 5601.1600; 5601.2800; 5601.2900; 5601.3000; 5601.3105; 5601.3110; 5601.3115; 5601.3120; 5601.3125; 5601.3130; 5601.3135; 5601.3140; 5601.3145; 5601.3150; 5601.3155; 5601.3160; 5601.3165."

With the recommendation that when so amended the bill pass.

The report was adopted.

Sertich from the Committee on Rules and Legislative Administration to which was referred:

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 7, A Senate concurrent resolution relating to adjournment for more than three days.

Reported the same back with the recommendation that the resolution be adopted.

The report was adopted.

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SECOND READING OF HOUSE BILLS

H. F. No. 1892 was read for the second time.

SECOND READING OF SENATE BILLS

S. F. Nos. 846 and 26 were read for the second time.

INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF HOUSE BILLS

The following House Files were introduced:

Garofalo, Eastlund, Holberg and Gunther introduced:

H. F. No. 2377, A bill for an act relating to employment; modifying prevailing wage provisions; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 177.42, subdivisions 4, 6; 177.43, subdivisions 1, 4, 5, 6, by adding a subdivision.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor.

Sviggum; Holberg; Olson; Anderson, B.; Otremba and Buesgens introduced:

H. F. No. 2378, A bill for an act proposing an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution, by adding a section to article XIII; establishing there is no constitutional right to abortion.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Health and Human Services.

Sviggum; Holberg; Olson; Anderson, B.; Otremba and Buesgens introduced:

H. F. No. 2379, A bill for an act proposing an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution by adding a section to article XI; prohibiting the use of state funds for abortion services.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Health and Human Services.

Sviggum, Holberg and Gunther introduced:

H. F. No. 2380, A bill for an act relating to labor; regulating state department and local government construction contracts; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 177.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor.

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Davnie, Thissen and Emmer introduced:

H. F. No. 2381, A bill for an act relating to workers' compensation; modifying compensation, retraining, and fee provisions; establishing an advisory commission; requiring a report; requiring rulemaking; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 176.101, subdivision 1; 176.102, subdivision 11; 176.136, subdivision 1a.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor.

Erickson, Buesgens, Hackbarth and Heidgerken introduced:

H. F. No. 2382, A bill for an act relating to the State Lottery; authorizing the director of the State Lottery to establish video lottery terminals; providing duties and powers to the director of the State Lottery; providing for the use of video lottery revenues; modifying certain lawful gambling taxes; making clarifying, conforming, and technical changes; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 297A.94; 297E.02, subdivision 1; 299L.02, subdivision 1; 299L.07, subdivisions 2, 2a; 340A.410, subdivision 5; 349.15, subdivision 1; 349A.01, subdivisions 10, 11, 12, by adding subdivisions; 349A.04; 349A.06, subdivisions 1, 5, 8, 10, by adding subdivisions; 349A.08, subdivisions 1, 5, 8; 349A.09, subdivision 1; 349A.10, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 6; 349A.11, subdivision 1; 349A.12, subdivisions 1, 2; 349A.13; 541.20; 541.21; 609.651, subdivision 1; 609.75, subdivisions 3, 4; 609.761, subdivision 2; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 297A; 349A; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 297E.01, subdivision 7; 297E.02, subdivisions 4, 6, 7.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor.

Erickson introduced:

H. F. No. 2383, A bill for an act relating to taxes; authorizing the city of Isle to impose a local sales tax.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Local Government and Metropolitan Affairs.

Hornstein introduced:

H. F. No. 2384, A bill for an act relating to energy; establishing rebate program for installation of solar technologies, funded by a surcharge on retail electricity bills; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 216C.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Solberg, Rukavina, Anzelc, Dill, Sertich and Moe introduced:

H. F. No. 2385, A bill for an act relating to economic development; requiring a closed wood products manufacturing plant to be maintained for a period of time; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 116J.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Higher Education and Work Force Development Policy and Finance Division.

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Olin introduced:

H. F. No. 2386, A bill for an act relating to retirement; providing for certain pension benefits upon privatization of the Oakland Park Nursing Home; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 353F.02, subdivision 4.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations, Reform, Technology and Elections.

Haws introduced:

H. F. No. 2387, A bill for an act relating to higher education; requiring certain students enrolled in institutions of higher education to sign a written waiver if they choose not to be vaccinated against meningococcal disease; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 135A.14, subdivision 2.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Higher Education and Work Force Development Policy and Finance Division.

Cornish introduced:

H. F. No. 2388, A bill for an act relating to natural resources; requiring a report on designation of ginseng.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.

Atkins introduced:

H. F. No. 2389, A bill for an act relating to civil actions; requiring insurers to act in good faith in connection with claims practices; requiring a report; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 604.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Civil Justice.

Olson introduced:

H. F. No. 2390, A bill for an act relating to transportation; permitting statewide use of freeway shoulders by transit and metro mobility buses; allowing limited use of bus stops by motor carriers of passengers; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 169.306; 473.411, by adding a subdivision.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Transportation Finance Division.

Hornstein introduced:

H. F. No. 2391, A bill for an act relating to metropolitan government; providing for the additional financing of metropolitan area transit and paratransit capital expenditures; authorizing the issuance of certain obligations; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 473.39, by adding a subdivision.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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Atkins introduced:

H. F. No. 2392, A bill for an act relating to securities; modifying the Minnesota Securities Act; regulating registrations, filings, and fees; making various technical changes; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 80A.40; 80A.41; 80A.46; 80A.50; 80A.52; 80A.56; 80A.57; 80A.58; 80A.60; 80A.65, subdivisions 1, 2, 5; 80A.66; 80A.67; 80A.76; 80A.83; 80A.85; 80A.87.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor.

Hamilton introduced:

H. F. No. 2393, A bill for an act relating to retirement; providing for certain pension benefits upon privatization of the Lakefield Nursing Home; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 353F.02, subdivision 4.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations, Reform, Technology and Elections.

Lesch introduced:

H. F. No. 2394, A bill for an act relating to uniform acts; providing for the Uniform Real Property Electronic Recording Act; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 14.03, subdivision 3; 507.24, subdivision 2; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 507.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Labor.

Davnie introduced:

H. F. No. 2395, A bill for an act relating to retirement; Teachers Retirement Association; providing an increase in the retirement annuity of certain former Minneapolis teachers based on an erroneous benefit estimate from the former Minneapolis Teachers Retirement Fund Association in 1995.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Governmental Operations, Reform, Technology and Elections.

Rukavina and Sertich introduced:

H. F. No. 2396, A bill for an act relating to capital improvements; appropriating money for a road and trail project in the town of White; authorizing the sale and issuance of state bonds.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

Rukavina and Sertich introduced:

H. F. No. 2397, A bill for an act relating to capital improvements; appropriating money for the city of Aurora wastewater treatment facility; authorizing the sale and issuance of state bonds.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

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Rukavina and Sertich introduced:

H. F. No. 2398, A bill for an act relating to capital improvements; appropriating money for water and sewer extensions in Iron Junction; authorizing the sale and issuance of state bonds.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Finance.

MESSAGES FROM THE SENATE

The following messages were received from the Senate:

Madam Speaker:

I hereby announce the passage by the Senate of the following House File, herewith returned, as amended by the Senate, in which amendments the concurrence of the House is respectfully requested:

H. F. No. 886, A bill for an act relating to capital improvements; authorizing spending to acquire and better public land and buildings and other improvements of a capital nature with certain conditions; authorizing the sale of state bonds; appropriating money; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 16A.695, subdivisions 2, 3, by adding subdivisions; 16A.86, subdivision 3; 116R.01, subdivision 6; 116R.02, subdivisions 1, 2, 4, 5; 116R.03; 116R.05, subdivision 2; 116R.11, subdivision 1; 116R.12, by adding a subdivision; 272.01, subdivision 2; 290.06, subdivision 24; 297A.71, subdivision 10; 360.013, subdivision 39; 360.032, subdivision 1; 360.038, subdivision 4; Laws 2005, chapter 20, article 1, sections 7, subdivision 21; 20, subdivision 3; 23, subdivisions 8, 16; Laws 2006, chapter 258, sections 4, subdivision 4; 7, subdivision 11; 21, subdivisions 6, 15; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 116R.02, subdivisions 3, 6, 7, 9; 116R.16.

Patrick E. Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate

Hausman moved that the House refuse to concur in the Senate amendments to H. F. No. 886, that the Speaker appoint a Conference Committee of 5 members of the House, and that the House requests that a like committee be appointed by the Senate to confer on the disagreeing votes of the two houses. The motion prevailed.

Madam Speaker:

I hereby announce the passage by the Senate of the following House File, herewith returned, as amended by the Senate, in which amendments the concurrence of the House is respectfully requested:

H. F. No. 946, A bill for an act relating to transportation finance; appropriating money for transportation, Metropolitan Council, and public safety activities; providing for fund transfers, general contingent accounts, tort claims, and state land sales; authorizing sale and issuance of trunk highway bonds for highways and transit facilities; modifying motor fuels and registration taxes; allocating motor vehicle sales tax revenue; modifying county state-aid allocation formula; modifying county wheelage tax; authorizing local transportation sales and use taxes; modifying provisions relating to various transportation-related funds and accounts; modifying fees for license plates, drivers' licenses, identification cards, and state patrol escort and flight services; prohibiting future toll facilities; making technical and clarifying changes; amending Minnesota Statutes 2006, sections 16A.88; 161.04, subdivision 3, by

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adding a subdivision; 162.06; 162.07, subdivision 1, by adding subdivisions; 163.051; 168.011, subdivision 6; 168.013, subdivisions 1, 1a; 168.017, subdivision 3; 168.12, subdivision 5; 168A.29, subdivision 1; 171.02, subdivision 3; 171.06, subdivision 2; 171.07, subdivisions 3a, 11; 171.20, subdivision 4; 296A.07, subdivision 3; 296A.08, subdivision 2; 297A.94; 297B.09, subdivision 1; 299D.09; 473.388, subdivision 4; 473.446, subdivision 1; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 160; 297A; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2006, section 174.32.

Patrick E. Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate

Lieder moved that the House refuse to concur in the Senate amendments to H. F. No. 946, that the Speaker appoint a Conference Committee of 5 members of the House, and that the House requests that a like committee be appointed by the Senate to confer on the disagreeing votes of the two houses.

A roll call was requested and properly seconded.

The question was taken on the Lieder motion and the roll was called. There were 131 yeas and 0 nays as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative were: