Senate Bill 338 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Will BarfootSenator

Republican

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling; authorized to conduct criminal history background checks

Summary

SB338 would require criminal history background checks for initial counseling licensure and allow the board to require checks for licensees.

What This Bill Does

It requires an initial license application for professional counselors to include a completed criminal history background check. The Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling may establish by rule additional procedures for requesting background checks of licensees. The bill adds a new process for background checks, including fingerprints or biometric data, state and federal checks, and states that applicants pay the costs; results may be used in licensing decisions and the board may adopt rules to implement the process. The act becomes effective on October 1, 2026.

Who It Affects

• Prospective licensed professional counselors must submit a criminal history background check with their initial application and may face licensing decisions based on the results.
• Prospective associate licensed counselors must also submit background information and will require supervision; they may seek licensure as a professional counselor after meeting requirements.
• Current licensees could be subject to future background checks as determined by board rules, including checks at renewal, with costs potentially charged to applicants or licensees.

Key Provisions

• Requires criminal history background checks with initial LPC/ALC licensing applications.
• Authorizes the board to establish by rule additional background-check procedures for licensees and renewals.
• Adds section 34-8A-8.1 detailing background-check procedures: fingerprints/biometrics, state and federal checks, cost responsibilities, confidentiality, and rulemaking.
• Effective date: October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano-2025-08-07 on Mar 3, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Occupational Licensing Boards