One of the bills that became law is SB 544 (Umberg) that illustrates a trend in licensing of professionals. SB 544 would prohibit the state bar from seeking information on mental health issues in deciding whether an applicant to the bar is of “good moral character.” CPA negotiated a related provision earlier this year with the medical board. Compromise language was struck. The medical board can still inquire if you suffer from “any” condition which might impede practice, but mental health or substance use issues are not separated out in individual questions asked of applicants, and the board will no longer inquire if you have “ever” had a mental or substance use disorder.
