Legislation passed recently in Arizona represents progress toward practice mobility using licensure by endorsement. Aimed at slightly different situations, one change applies to all licensed social workers who wish to practice in Arizona, and the other is for those who physically move into the state.

In August 2018, the state enacted statute changes (ARS 32-3274) that created greater workforce mobility for licensed social workers and other behavioral health practitioners based on recommendations from the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. Amendments included shortening the required experience provisions from five years to three years.

In April 2019, Governor Douglas Ducey signed HB 2569, which provides for licensure by endorsement to licensees of all occupations and professions, including licensed social workers. Under this new law, an individual moving into the state who is currently licensed in good standing for at least a year in at least one other state may be issued a license to practice in Arizona.

The 2018 amendments for behavioral health practitioners apply to all licensed social workers seeking licensure in Arizona, including those physically moving into the state and those who practice electronically. HB 2569 is for those who establish residence in Arizona. The Arizona NASW chapter has published Understanding Social Work Licensing in Arizona to help clarify the changes.

“The Association of Social Work Boards applauds Arizona for progress made on practice mobility through licensure by endorsement,” said ASWB CEO Mary Jo Monahan.