Bill Caption

Relating to defining the practice of psychology.

Fiscal Notes

From the LBB: No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

This bill would in more detail than under current law, add to the statutory definition of the term "practice of psychology". The updated definition would specify that a psychologist observes, describes, diagnoses, evaluates, assesses, interprets, intervenes, and treats human behavior to prevent, predict, and treat symptomatic, maladaptive, or undesired behavior or mental illness. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

This bill is in response to a U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals decision that struck down the current definition of "psychological services" thus rendering the profession unregulated. According to the author's intent statement: "The court's ruling effectively prevents the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists (TSBEP) from taking action against an individual practicing psychology in Texas without a license. Whether the ruling will affect only TSBEP or be felt throughout Texas' other mental health professions remains to be seen."

The goal of this bill is to redefine these services so as to again regulate those who were effectively deregulated by the Court ruling. As this decision was made over a year ago, and this now unlicensed industry has operated without harming the public, we believe it is unnecessary to redefine their practice so as to once again impose regulatory burdens on them. For these reasons, we oppose SB 2001.