Health occupations: counselors; professional counselors licensure compact; provide for. Amends sec. 18101 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.18101) & adds secs. 16190a & 18105a.

The bill establishes a professional counselors licensure compact in Michigan, allowing licensed counselors to practice across state lines more easily. It amends existing legislation to integrate this compact into Michigan's laws. This aims to improve access to mental health services by simplifying the licensing process for counselors from other states.

Supporters of the bill argue that it will enhance access to mental health care for residents by allowing more qualified counselors to practice in Michigan. They believe this compact will help address the counselor shortage and improve the overall quality of mental health services available to the community.

Critics of the bill express concerns that it may lower the standards for counselor licensure, potentially allowing less qualified individuals to practice in Michigan. They worry that the compact could undermine local regulations and the quality of care provided to patients, putting vulnerable individuals at risk.