SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 58

(By Senators Stollings, Laird, Foster, Kirkendoll, Miller, Palumbo, Plymale, Prezioso, Tucker, Wills, Yost and Boley)

[Originating in the Committee on Health and Human Resources]

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance authorize a study of the practice of psychology in the State of West Virginia.

    Whereas, West Virginia is experiencing a critical shortage of psychologists trained at the national standard required under Medicare, the Veteran’s Administration, Rural and Community Health Medical Clinics and many private insurers; and

    Whereas, This shortage has resulted in significant portions of the state’s most vulnerable population going without care of a license psychologist; and

    Whereas, West Virginia receives failing grades from national mental health organizations regarding the delivery of mental health care to its citizens; and

    Whereas, The practice of psychology is a dynamic discipline and has changed significantly over the past several decades; and    Whereas, The current licensing standards do not accurately reflect the current state of the practice of psychology; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

    That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to authorize a study of the practice of psychology in the State of West Virginia; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2013, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.