Implicit Bias Training Updates for Michigan Social Workers

Implicit Bias Training Updates for Michigan Social Workers

Last summer, NASW-Michigan, on behalf of our membership, submitted suggested changes to the Public Health Code, specifically in regards to the implicit bias training requirements. 
We requested that the language be updated to reflect that if a licensee takes a continuing education (CE) course on implicit bias AND that training also satisfies the implicit bias training requirements, the licensee could use that one training to satisfy both the CE and implicit bias licensure requirements. Additionally, we requested the asynchronous (non-live) trainings also be accepted formats.
The previous wording created new standards and did not follow the other continuing education requirements in the state.
On March 23, 2023, we were excited to see that our proposed changes to the Michigan Public Health Code General Rules were promulgated and officially went into effect!
The significant changes to the rules include:

• Permitting a licensee to use the training to satisfy other CE requirements

• Allowing implicit bias trainings to be completed in a asynchronous format (non-live teleconference or webinar)

The Bureau of Professional Licensing (BPL) within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) would like to inform you that the new revised Michigan Public Health Code General Rules rules were effective as of March 22, 2023.  A list of the notable changes is below. This is not intended to provide a comprehensive listing of all changes or current requirements. Licensees should review the rules and statute for a complete understanding of all applicable requirements.

- The new rules amend the definitions section to advise that terms defined in the public health code have the same definition when used in these rules.  
- The new rules provide the renewal date for genetic counseling licensees, 
- The new rules amend the implicit bias training requirements to clarify which applicants must have completed the training and how the requirements of the training can be satisfied.

Please click HERE to view the revised Michigan Public Health Code General Rules.

An updated frequently aske questions (FAQ) document regarding Implicit Bias training can be found HERE.

Our office is diligently working on updating relative information on our website to reflect the revisions of the revised rules.  For more information, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/bpl.

Please send questions about the revised rules to BPLHELP@michigan.gov.

Thank you,

Bureau of Professional Licensing

Licensing Division

517-241-0199