We Have a Behavior Analyst Licensure Law. Can't We Relax Now?

Abstract

This paper details the ongoing actions behavior analysts should be prepared to take to ensure that behavior analyst licensure laws protect the public and behavior analysts. Behavior analysts will want to be aware of these processes to engage with government officials in an informed way relative to any possible changes to the relevant laws and regulations. Although behavior analysts have increasingly become knowledgeable about the processes to pass licensure legislation, they can be unaware of the significant impact that rules for implementing a licensure law can have on their work and the public. Additionally, legislative actions can change or eliminate licensure laws after implementing the original law. Behavior analysts and their collaborating public (i.e., citizens committed to behavior analysis licensure legislation) can be caught off guard if unexpected rules or regulations for implementing licensing laws are proposed and adopted. Years later, behavior analysts may be further surprised by sunset laws that can result in the automatic termination or substantial revision of licensure laws. Although sunset laws may be relevant in many states, those in which most politicians oppose regulation are most at risk for termination of licensure laws despite the initial years of effort and collaboration needed to enact the law. We offer an analysis of these processes and how they impact the public and behavior analysts concerning the practice of behavior analysis. Further, we suggest that behavior analysts address factors relevant to behavior analyst licensure once established.