The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) has made significant strides in enhancing its online presence and engaging with licensed professionals, as discussed in their recent meeting on September 8, 2025. Notably, the BSRB's website received commendation from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards for its user-friendly features, highlighting the board's commitment to improving accessibility and transparency.
In addition to website improvements, the BSRB has successfully broadcasted 215 meetings on its YouTube channel, accumulating over 11,700 views. This initiative aims to keep the public informed about the board's activities and foster greater community engagement.
The board also reported on a comprehensive survey conducted among licensed professionals, particularly social workers, which garnered responses from approximately 2,000 individuals. The results will be compiled into individual reports for each profession, along with a comparative analysis, to better understand the needs and expectations of licensees.
Financially, the BSRB operates on a fee-based budget, as it does not receive funding from the state general fund. The board is preparing to submit its budget for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with adjustments anticipated due to a recent salary increase for state employees. This increase, however, poses a challenge for biennial agencies like the BSRB, which must navigate the complexities of budget approvals across two fiscal years.
Looking ahead, the BSRB is preparing for the implementation of multistate compacts for professional counseling and social work, which will allow licensed professionals to practice across state lines with a single multistate license. While this change is expected to enhance mobility for practitioners, it may also lead to a decrease in out-of-state licensing revenue, prompting the board to monitor its financial implications closely.
Overall, the BSRB's recent meeting underscored its proactive approach to regulation and outreach, aiming to better serve both professionals and the community while navigating the challenges of budget management and evolving licensing frameworks.