SB2243: MUSIC THERAPY LICENSING

Legislative Summary

Reinserts the provisions of Senate Amendment No. 2 with the following changes. Provides that "music therapy intervention" as defined occurs during a therapist-client relationship and includes collaborating with and educating the client and the family, caregiver of the client, or any other appropriate person regarding the needs of the client that are being addressed in music therapy and the manner in which the music therapy treatment addresses those needs in compliance with state and federal law. Provides that the Music Therapy Advisory Board shall advise the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation on all matters pertaining to disciplinary actions for practice of music therapy in the State. Removes a provision that provides that nothing in the Act may be construed to prohibit the practice of a person whose training and national certification attests to the individual's preparation and ability to practice the individual's certified profession or occupation. Provides that the Secretary of Financial and Professional Regulation shall issue a license to an applicant for a professional music therapist license if the applicant is of good moral character. Provides that in determining moral character under the provisions of qualifications for licensure, the Department may take into consideration whether the applicant has engaged in conduct which would constitute grounds for discipline under the Act. Removes as a ground for discipline the failure to file a return, or to pay the tax, penalty, or interest shown in a filed return, or to pay any final assessment of tax, penalty, or interest, as required by a tax Act administered by the Department of Revenue. Adds that whenever the Secretary believes substantial justice (rather than only justice) has not been done in the revocation, suspension, or refusal to issue or renew a license or the discipline of a licensee, the Secretary may order a rehearing. Removes provisions concerning: the suspension of a license for failure to pay restitution; the surrender of a license; and any conflict with the Act and any other law. Makes other and conforming changes.