Alaska State Legislature
News from the House Majority

Jerry Ritter, House Majority Press Secretary
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: (907) 465-3804
web site: http://www.akrepublicans.org
Actuality line: 1-800-478-6540

House Formalizes Social Work as a Profession

Bill Prohibits Use of Title Without a License

For Immediate Release April 23, 1998 Contact: Rep. Jeannette James at (907) 465-3743.

Juneau – The Alaska House of Representatives Thursday passed House Bill 349, which prohibits the use of the title "social worker" without a license and establishes two additional levels of professional social work licensure.

"This bill requires the State of Alaska to recognize social work as a profession and social workers as professionals," said Representative Jeannette James (R-North Pole), the bill's sponsor. "Not only is this long overdue as recognition, but, through its licensing provisions, this bill protects the health, safety, and welfare of Alaskans through controls and regulations," James said.

HB 349 amends current statutes by adding two additional levels of professional social work licensure in addition to the existing license. It also establishes a Board of Social Work Examiners to oversee the profession.

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Broadcasters note: Comments are available by calling the House Majority Actuality Line at (800) 478-6540.
= Jeannette James, 43 K