The Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners (TSBSWE) voted unanimously last week to align their code of conduct with existing law by removing a problematic section that included “sexual orientation” and “gender identity.” This positive action was based on guidance of Governor Greg Abbott who encouraged the board to align code with existing law.
The changes the Board made would mean that counselors who are Christians would be allowed to counsel based on their religious beliefs on marriage and human sexuality. However, LGBTQ activists are asking the board to re-insert the LGBTQ special protections into the code of conduct. The Behavioral Health Executive Council is holding a hearing TOMORROW, October 27th at 9:00 AM to discuss whether TSBSWE has rulemaking authority to adopt this change and to allow public comment. LGBTQ advocates from across the state are mobilizing to testify on this item and in opposition of the change. Leftist lawmakers are also threatening to file legislation (again) that will ban Christian-based counseling. Take these 2 action steps to keep the radical LGBTQ language out of the policies:
1. Email the board and encourage them to oppose any further rule changes. Please email your comments to the board at: [email protected]. See sample email below. 2. Testify at tomorrow's virtual meeting against any further changes to the rule. Tomorrow, October 27th at 9:00 AM, simply go to the link in the agenda and participate in the virtual meeting. Once public comment period opens, you will press a button to virtually “raise your hand.” All individuals who raise their hand will be allowed to comment in order. Sample Email to Send: Dear BHEC Council Member, I am writing to ask you to vote against any further changes to the Code of Conduct for social workers regarding the recent alignment with state law that eliminated special privileges for pro-LGBT advocates. -
There is nothing discriminatory about aligning policies with existing state or federal law. -
"Sexual orientation and gender identity" language discriminates against people of faith. -
The Legislature has repeatedly rejected this type of language in state law and it should never have been included in the board’s code of conduct in the first place. Thank you for your service.
| 
