SB560 Alabama 2012 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Cam Ward

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2012

Title

Alabama Behavior Analyst Licensing Board, created to license behavior analyst and assistant behavior analysts, duties of board, qualification of licensees, reciprocity, subject to Sunset Law

Summary

SB560 would create the Alabama Behavior Analyst Licensing Board to license behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts, regulate their practice, and subject the board to Sunset Law review.

What This Bill Does

It establishes a state licensing board, defines what counts as the practice of behavior analysis, and sets licensure requirements for behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts. It requires licensure or certification from the national certifying board, ongoing renewal, adherence to professional standards, and supervision for assistants. It includes penalties for practicing without a license and allows out-of-state licensees to seek licensure by reciprocity; the board is subject to periodic Sunset review.

Who It Affects

• Behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts would need state licenses/certifications, meet moral character standards, maintain active certification, and (for assistants) work under licensed supervision.
• Alabama residents who receive behavior analysis services would be protected by board regulation and disciplinary rules, with penalties in place for unlicensed practice and efforts to ensure qualified professionals deliver services.

Key Provisions

• Creation of the Alabama Behavior Analyst Licensing Board, with 3 licensed behavior analysts, 1 licensed assistant behavior analyst, and 1 consumer representative appointed by the Governor.
• Definition of practice and licensure categories (Licensed Behavior Analyst and Licensed Assistant Behavior Analyst), including qualifications such as board certification, good moral character, ongoing certification, and adherence to professional standards.
• Provision for reciprocity for licensed out-of-state professionals and licensing by the board based on national certification and state requirements.
• Penalties for practicing or presenting oneself as licensed without proper licensure (fines up to $250, possible license suspension or loss).
• Board authority to license, regulate, set fees, create disciplinary rules, coordinate with the national certifying board, and be subject to the Sunset Law with periodic renewal.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Behavior Analyst Licensing Board