According to state statue, New Mexico's Social Work Practice Act which regulates the rights and responsibilities of social workers is due to sunset in 2016. Thus, passage of a new social work licensing bill in the upcoming 2015 60 day legislative session will be necessary.
In preparation for such, NASW-NM and other social work representatives have formed a social work licensing task force to research and prepare a draft bill. The prime guiding principle is to ensure the protection of New Mexico's citizens who receive professional social work services while establishing fair standards of practice.
The Social Work Summit in October addressed the key issues of levels of licensure and supervision. One proposed change is to create two levels of advanced practice: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for those who are primarily engaged in direct services (micro systems) and Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) who focus more on macro systems such as administration and community organization. The task force has also explored requirements and training for supervisors.
All social workers and social work students are asked to review the latest draft (10/26/14) by clicking here. Your comments and suggestions are welcome by emailing Dan Frampton at [email protected] please reference "Licensing Bill" in the subject line.
We also invite you to attend one of our regional forums on social work licensing:
Monday, November 3 Silver City View flyer
Monday, November 10 Las Cruces Click here to register
Monday, November 17 Roswell
Tuesday, November 18 Portales
We are also working on a forum in Santa Fe in early December.