In a triumph for the MFT profession, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed the Virginia MFT portability bill into law on April 4. This significant achievement marks the culmination of rigorous legislative work and underscores the dedication and collaborative efforts of stakeholders, advocates, and volunteers across the Commonwealth.
The Virginia MFT portability bill, officially known as HB 329, navigated through both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly with resounding support and unanimous passage in each stage of the legislative process. The bill demonstrated the widespread recognition of the importance of licensure portability in supporting MFT professionals.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a role in this success. From those who sent emails and made calls to their representatives, to those who testified and volunteered their time, each contribution was invaluable in pushing this initiative forward. Your dedication and advocacy have made a tangible difference in advancing the cause of MFT licensure portability in Virginia.
This victory holds particular significance as Virginia becomes the first Access MFTs Phase 1 state to cross the finish line. It sets a powerful precedent for the future of the Access MFTs initiative, demonstrating the feasibility and impact of MFT advocacy efforts in achieving legislative change. As we celebrate this milestone in Virginia, we also look forward to the progress of other states in Phase 1 of the initiative.
We look forward to achieving similar successes in additional states and further advancing the cause of MFT licensure portability nationwide.
Governor Youngkin's signing of the Virginia MFT portability bill into law is not just a victory for the profession—it's a testament to the power of advocacy and collective action.
Moving forward, AAMFT will continue to monitor the rulemaking process to ensure that the rules are reflective of the accessibility expressed in the law. By staying vigilant and actively engaged, we can ensure that the law's implementation aligns with the legislation's spirit and intent, further enhancing access to care for Virginians and flexibility for MFTs.
As we move forward from this legislative victory, we encourage you to join us in advocating for other issues relevant to the MFT profession. Your voice can make a difference. If you're interested in getting involved, please complete the Contact Us Form or sign up for AAMFT’s Family TEAM, our free grassroots advocacy network.
Stay tuned for further updates on our progress in other states!