SB13 Alabama 2014 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Cam Ward
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2014
Title: Behavior Analyst Licensing Board, established, licensing and regulation of behavior analysts, appointment of members, powers, exemptions, penalties, subject to Sunset Law
Summary: SB13 creates the Alabama Behavior Analyst Licensing Board to regulate behavior analysts, set licensure rules, and place the board under the Sunset Law.
What This Bill Does
The bill creates the Alabama Behavior Analyst Licensing Board within the Division of Developmental Disabilities of the Alabama Department of Mental Health to regulate the practice of behavior analysts in Alabama and to set licensure rules, exemptions, and reciprocity. It defines licensure requirements, requires background checks and ongoing certification for licensees, and sets a two-year license term with renewal. It also lists exemptions from licensure, allows temporary licenses for out-of-state practitioners, authorizes complaint investigations and fee setting, and designates the board as an enumerated agency under the Sunset Law.

Who It Affects
Behavior analysts and licensed assistant behavior analysts in Alabama (and those seeking licensure) – must meet certification, background checks, supervision requirements, and renewal; may pursue reciprocity or temporary licenses for out-of-state practice.
Patients, clients, and the general public in Alabama who receive behavior analysis services – benefit from regulated practice and board oversight, with defined exemptions that allow certain professionals to work within their scope and penalties for unlicensed practice.

Key Provisions
Establishes the Alabama Behavior Analyst Licensing Board within the Division of Developmental Disabilities of the Department of Mental Health.
Authorizes the board to regulate the practice of behavior analysts, including licensure, exemptions, and reciprocity; designates it as an enumerated agency under the Sunset Law.
Defines key terms such as licensed behavior analyst, licensed assistant behavior analyst, and the practice of behavior analysis.
Sets board composition (seven members: four licensed behavior analysts, one licensed psychologist, one parent/guardian or former client, and one public member), terms, appointment processes, quorum, and per diem.
Specifies licensure requirements (moral character, background checks, active certification) and supervision requirements for assistants, plus temporary and reciprocal licensure provisions.
Licenses are valid for two years and require renewal with continued certification.
Establishes penalties for violations (fine up to $1,000 or license suspension/revocation) and authorizes complaint investigations.
Provides exemptions from licensure for certain activities and professionals (e.g., psychologists, supervised direct-contact technicians, nonhuman/patient work, licensed physicians, other licensed professionals within scope, students under supervision, etc.).
Subject to Sunset Law with automatic termination dates and renewal to continue the board.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Behavior Analyst Licensing Board