BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 858

By: Laubenberg

Public Health

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The current structure of the Occupations Code does not clearly define the differences in the responsibilities of a psychologist and psychological associate. While the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists has set out the differences, state law does not reflect existing and accepted practices. H.B. 858 does not change the scope of practice for either psychologists or psychological associates, but clarifies in law existing practice.

H.B. 858 codifies existing board rules by clearly stating that psychological associates practice under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 858 amends the Occupations Code to prohibit a psychological associate from engaging in the practice of psychology unless the associate practices under the supervision of a psychologist.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2009.