The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) is grappling with significant challenges in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training requirements for licensed professionals. During the Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee meeting on June 13, 2025, members discussed the ongoing struggle to integrate DEI into continuing education mandates, highlighting a history of legislative pushback.

David, a committee member, recounted the journey of DEI advocacy within the psychology profession, which began in 2021. Despite strong support from the Kansas Psychological Association, efforts to introduce a three-hour DEI continuing education requirement were thwarted in 2022 when a Senate committee removed the provision from a broader legislative bill. This setback not only stalled DEI initiatives but also complicated the passage of unrelated legislative items.

In subsequent discussions, the board proposed a shift to a more flexible continuing education model, suggesting that professionals could choose from various categories, including DEI, cultural diversity, and other relevant topics. However, the 2023 legislative session saw further resistance, with the House committee striking down the DEI requirement while agreeing to reduce the hours for diagnosis and treatment training from six to three.

As of July 1, 2025, the new requirement for three hours in diagnosis and treatment will take effect, but the DEI training remains absent from the mandated curriculum. The board acknowledged the persistent legislative opposition, which has made it increasingly difficult to advocate for DEI initiatives. Members emphasized the importance of continuing these conversations, recognizing the broader national context where DEI training is gaining traction in other states.

The committee's discussions underscore a critical moment for Kansas's behavioral health professionals, as they navigate the complexities of legislative approval while striving to enhance cultural competency within their fields. The board's commitment to revisiting DEI training in future legislative sessions remains a priority, as they seek to align with national standards and address the pressing need for inclusive practices in mental health care.