Is Michigan Still in Play for the Interstate Social Work Compact? Here’s What You Need to Know

The Interstate Social Work Compact is a promising tool to help address workforce shortages and expand access to services by allowing eligible social workers to practice across state lines. But for Michigan, many social workers are asking: Where do we stand? Is the Compact still an option for our state? What’s the timeline?

The answer: Michigan is still very much in play—but the road ahead is complex!

Here’s what you need to know — and an opportunity to learn more this fall.

What Is the Compact?

The Interstate Social Work Compact creates a multistate licensing pathway that would allow social workers licensed in one participating state to practice in others.

The Compact requires at least seven states to pass enabling legislation before the Compact Commission can formally begin operations.

As of April 2024, the seventh state joined — meaning the Compact is now moving toward implementation.

The next steps include building the Compact Commission, developing rules and bylaws, creating a technical licensing platform, and establishing operational processes.

Experts estimate that licenses under the Compact will not be available for 18–24 months, meaning a likely rollout in mid-to-late 2026.

Michigan’s Status
Michigan has not yet passed the enabling legislation to join the Compact.

However, the door is still open:

- NASW-Michigan continues to monitor developments and remains engaged in Compact discussions.
- Michigan could still pass the legislation needed to join before the Compact goes live.
- The Compact is not "first-come, first-served" - states can join later as well.

Why It’s Complicated in Michigan
Several unique political dynamics are affecting Michigan’s path:

The Governor’s Role

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has historically been cautious regarding cross-state professional licensing compacts. For example, she vetoed the PSYPACT compact (psychology licensure) in 2020, citing concerns about Michigan retaining control over professional standards and enforcement.

However - each compact is different. The Social Work Compact is still being finalized and structured, and Governor Whitmer’s stance may evolve as more details become clear and workforce needs grow. It is also important note that we have a very important midterm election in 2026 that will determine our Governor and State Senate.

Legislative Gridlock

Michigan’s Legislature is currently in the midst of a budget standstill - significantly slowing the passage of new policy bills.

Without a finalized budget and with the legislative calendar shortened by election-year dynamics, advancing Compact legislation may take time and advocacy.

How You Can Learn More - And Get Involved!

 Mark your calendars: September 19, 2025!

Join NASW-MI’s Legislative & Social Policy Committee meeting, open to ALL members and the public, for an in-depth discussion of the Interstate Social Work Compact.

We’ll be joined by a special guest from the Council of State Governments (CSG) - the organization helping develop the Compact.

Register today: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZErcO-oqjgqGdHnL3cRh-EdU2Am3TkYUTpT#/registration

Bottom Line
- The Social Work Compact is moving forward in many states - but licenses are likely 18–24 months away from issuance.
- Michigan can still join the Compact - but political dynamics make the path complex.
- YOU can get informed and engaged—starting with our September 19 meeting with CSG.

Stay tuned to NASW-MI’s Policy & Advocacy updates for more information—and we hope to see you in September!