The South Carolina Legislature's House Regulations, Administrative Procedures, AI and Cybersecurity Committee convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss several key regulatory updates concerning social work and counseling licensure.

The meeting began with a review of Document 53 0 1, which outlines the continuing education requirements for social workers. The proposed regulation mandates that social workers complete up to 40 continuing education hours during each renewal period, with at least one hour specifically focused on suicide assessment, treatment, and management. This requirement aligns with Act 158 from the 2024 legislative session. The subcommittee recommended approval of this document, and after a brief discussion, the committee voted unanimously in favor, with a 7-0 outcome.

Following this, the committee addressed Document 53 54, which pertains to licensing provisions for professional counselor associates and marriage and family therapy associates. This document introduces three significant changes: it requires that one of the continuing education hours for counselors also focus on suicide assessment, treatment, and management, clarifies that a minimum of 60 graduate hours is necessary for licensure, and adds a new pathway for certification for marriage and family therapy supervisors. The subcommittee also recommended approval for this document, and the committee engaged in a brief discussion regarding the applicability of these requirements to pastoral counselors, confirming that the regulations apply only to licensed professionals.

Overall, the meeting concluded with both documents receiving approval, reflecting the committee's commitment to enhancing the standards of mental health care in South Carolina. The next steps will involve implementing these changes in accordance with the legislative requirements.