Lawmaker: LARA should not be involved in changes to scope of practice

State Rep. Jack O’Malley joined House colleagues today in approving a plan to update and clarify counseling practices under Michigan law. The law has not been updated since it was enacted in 1988.

O’Malley said updates are needed because the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) has proposed a rule that strikes the majority of the rules for the practice of counselors. Because of this potential elimination, many counselors will not be able to practice should the proposed rules be adopted.

“Standards and practices have changed over the last 30 years,” O’Malley said. “The Legislature should be the one to amend statute and update scope of practice, rather than the department simply issuing and eliminating rules to try to keep up with the times.”

The most notable update to current law will clarify the current counseling techniques to include psychotherapy and diagnosis. Additionally, statute will be updated to reflect current training standards that have changed over the past three decades.

“I’ve heard from counselors in our community who supported this change and I’m pleased to be able to help provide this solution for them,” O’Malley said.

House Bill 4325 now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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