2017 – 2018 Interim Legislative Agenda

1. Continue to advocate for increased pay levels for salaries for social workers and expanded loan repayment programs.
2. Establish equal reimbursement for licensed clinical social workers who participate in Texas Medicaid when providing the same psychotherapy services; allow social workers under supervision to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to bill Medicaid at 70%.
3. Require a 4 year degree for all CPS caseworkers with a preference on recruiting master’s and bachelor’s level social workers.
4. Advocate for an appropriately funded board that operates efficiently and effectively.
5. Promote system changes in enrollment and reimbursement in Medicaid to attract and retain qualified providers.
6. Add a definition of school social work services work to the Texas Education Code; thereby allowing school districts to hire and pay for social workers from state funds.
7. Work with coalition partners on an equitable taxation and revenue system that funds health and human services programs.
8. Ensure that every Texan has access to affordable, quality healthcare.
9. Work with supporters and partners to advance legislation that promotes and protects the civil rights of all Texans.
10. Work with supporters and partners to improve the criminal justice system’s response to individuals with behavioral health care needs.
11. Advocate with our partners for an opt-out voter registration system and the creation of on-line voter registration.
    

Legislative Agenda Planning

Click here to see how NASW/Texas Board of Directors create a legislative agenda.