New Mexico Register / Volume XXXVI, Issue 19 / October 7, 2025

This is an amendment to 16.63.9 NMAC, Sections 8 and 9, effective 10/07/2025.

16.63.9.8 QUALIFICATION OF LICENSURE: Applicants for licensure as baccalaureate social worker must possess the following minimum qualifications:

A. be at least 18 years of age;

B. possess a bachelor's degree in social work from a program accredited by the council on social work education;

C. successfully pass the association of social work board examination and the jurisprudence examination;

D. documents completion of the required course in New Mexico cultures.

E. provide proof of any disqualifying criminal convictions as defined in 16.63.13.9 NMAC.

[16.63.9.8 NMAC – Rp, 16.63.9.8 NMAC, 3/13/2022; A, 10/07/2025]

16.63.9.9 [PARAMETERS] SCOPE OF PRACTICE:

A. This is the entry licensing level. The baccalaureate social worker ("LBSW") is prepared to assume the beginning level professional role in public and private social service agencies.

B. LBSWs are prepared through beginning professional knowledge in human behavior in the social environment, generalist social work practice, knowledge of the history of social policy, knowledge of how to utilize social research findings in their practice and having had supervised field practicum experience. Baccalaureate social work is basic generalist practice that includes assessment planning, intervention, evaluation, case management, information and referral, counseling, supervision, consultation, education, advocacy, community organization, and the development, implementation, of policies, programs and activities. LBSWs may work with individuals, families, communities, groups and organizations at a beginning level.

C. The LBSW utilizes the basic problem-solving process of gathering information, assessing that information at a beginning professional level, developing an intervention plan, implementing the plan and conducts follow-up. This process at the LBSW level requires the application of social work theory, knowledge, methods, ethics and the professional use of self to restore or enhance social, psychosocial, or biopsychosocial functioning.

D. The LBSW must not practice [independently as a private practitioner] without approved supervision.

[16.63.9.9 NMAC – Rp, 16.63.9.9 NMAC, 3/13/2022; A, 10/07/2025]