SB 981 Pennsylvania Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending the act of July 9, 1987 (P.L.220, No.39), known as the Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors Act, further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Recreational Therapist"; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice.

SB 981 amends Pennsylvania's licensing law for social work and therapy professions to specifically regulate "Licensed Recreational Therapists." It defines recreational therapy practice (including 15 methods like assessment, treatment planning, and community integration) and requires a license for anyone using the title "Licensed Recreational Therapist." Unlike other licensed professions under this law, recreational therapists must hold a license for employment by the state, local governments, or nonprofit agencies. The bill also updates the State Board composition to include one licensed recreational therapist member.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Aug 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Aug 25, 2025 Last action Aug 25, 2025
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Total actions
1
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0
Committee
1
Aug 25, 2025
Committee
Referred to Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure
upper
1 primary · 14 co-sponsors

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