Concerning the mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers advisory committee.

HB 1234 establishes the Washington State Mental Health Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Social Workers Advisory Committee. The bill mandates a 9-member committee with specific composition: two licensed mental health counselors, two marriage and family therapists, one licensed independent clinical social worker, one licensed advanced social worker, and three public consumer members who are unaffiliated with these professions. Committee members serve 1- to 3-year terms (max two consecutive terms), must reside in Washington, and cannot hold professional association leadership or state employment. The committee advises the state on matters related to these professions and will be appointed by the secretary, with members compensated per state law. This law, effective July 27, 2025, does not change service standards but creates a formal advisory body.