Article 5C.
North Carolina Substance Use Disorder Professional Practice Act.
§ 90-113.30. Declaration of purpose.
The North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board, established by G.S. 90-113.32, is recognized as the registering, certifying, and licensing authority for substance use disorder professionals described in this Article in order to safeguard the public health, safety, and welfare, to protect the public from being harmed by unqualified persons, to assure the highest degree of professional care and conduct on the part of credentialed substance use disorder professionals, to provide for the establishment of standards for the education of credentialed substance use disorder professionals, and to ensure the availability of credentialed substance use disorder professional services of high quality to persons in need of these services. It is the purpose of this Article to provide for the regulation of Board-credentialed persons offering substance use disorder counseling services, substance use disorder prevention services, or any other substance use disorder services for which the Board may grant registration, certification, or licensure. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 1; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, s. 8(b).)
§ 90-113.31: Repealed by Session Laws 2005-431, s. 1, effective September 22, 2005.
§ 90-113.31A. Definitions.
The following definitions apply in this Article:
(1) Alcohol and drug counselor intern. - A registrant who successfully completes 300 hours of Board-approved supervised practical training in pursuit of credentialing as a alcohol and drug counselor.
(1a) Applicant. - A person who has initiated a process to become a substance use disorder professional pursuant to this Article.
(2) Applicant supervisor. - A person who provides supervision as required by the Board to persons applying for registration, certification, or licensure as a substance use disorder professional pursuant to this Article.
(3) Board. - The North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board.
(4) Certified clinical supervisor. - A person certified by the Board to practice as a clinical supervisor in accordance with the provisions of this Article.
(5) Certified criminal justice addictions professional. - A person certified by the Board to practice as a criminal justice addictions professional who provides direct services to clients or offenders exhibiting substance use disorders and works in a program determined by the Board to be involved in a criminal justice setting.
(6) Certified alcohol and drug counselor. - A person certified by the Board to practice under the supervision of a practice supervisor as a alcohol and drug counselor in accordance with the provisions of this Article.
(7) Certified prevention specialist. - A person certified by the Board to practice substance use disorder prevention in accordance with the provisions of this Article.
(8) (Contingent repeal - see note) Certified substance abuse residential facility director. - A person certified by the Board to practice as a substance abuse residential facility director in accordance with the provisions of this Article.
(9) Repealed by Session Laws 2008-130, s. 1, effective July 28, 2008.
(10) Clinical supervisor intern. - A person designated by the Board to practice as a clinical supervisor under the supervision of a certified clinical supervisor for a period not to exceed three years without a showing of good cause in accordance with the provisions of this Article.
(11) Counseling. - The utilization of special skills to assist individuals, families, or groups in achieving objectives, including the following:
a. Exploring a problem and its ramifications.
b. Examining attitudes and feelings.
c. Considering alternative solutions.
d. Decision making.
(12) Credential. - Any registration, certification, or license issued by the Board.
(13) Credentialing body. - A board that licenses, certifies, registers, or otherwise regulates a profession or practice.
(14) Criminal history. - A history of conviction of a State crime, whether a misdemeanor or felony, that bears on an applicant's fitness for licensure to practice substance use disorder professional services. The crimes include the criminal offenses set forth in any of the following Articles of Chapter 14 of the General Statutes: Article 5, Counterfeiting and Issuing Monetary Substitutes; Article 5A, Endangering Executive and Legislative Officers; Article 6, Homicide; Article 7B, Rape and Other Sex Offenses; Article 8, Assaults; Article 10, Kidnapping and Abduction; Article 13, Malicious Injury or Damage by Use of Explosive or Incendiary Device or Material; Article 14, Burglary and Other Housebreakings; Article 15, Arson and Other Burnings; Article 16, Larceny; Article 17, Robbery; Article 18, Embezzlement; Article 19, False Pretenses and Cheats; Article 19A, Obtaining Property or Services by False or Fraudulent Use of Credit Device or Other Means; Article 19B, Financial Transaction Card Crime Act; Article 20, Frauds; Article 21, Forgery; Article 26, Offenses Against Public Morality and Decency; Article 26A, Adult Establishments; Article 27, Prostitution; Article 28, Perjury; Article 29, Bribery; Article 31, Misconduct in Public Office; Article 35, Offenses Against the Public Peace; Article 36A, Riots, Civil Disorders, and Emergencies; Article 39, Protection of Minors; Article 40, Protection of the Family; Article 59, Public Intoxication; and Article 60, Computer-Related Crime. The crimes also include possession or sale of drugs in violation of the North Carolina Controlled Substances Act in Article 5 of Chapter 90 of the General Statutes and alcohol-related offenses including sale to underage persons in violation of G.S. 18B-302 or driving while impaired in violation of G.S. 20-138.1 through G.S. 20-138.5.
(15) Deemed status. - Recognition by the Board of the credentials offered by a professional discipline whereby the individuals certified, licensed, or otherwise recognized by the discipline as having met the standards of a clinical addictions specialist may apply individually for licensure as a licensed clinical addictions specialist.
(16) Dual relationship. - A relationship in addition to the professional relationship with a person to whom the substance use disorder professional delivers services in the Twelve Core Functions or the performance domains, both as defined in rules adopted by the Board, or as provided in a supervisory capacity. These relationships may result in grounds for disciplinary action.
(17) Human services field. - An area of study that focuses on the biological, psychological, behavioral, and social aspects of human welfare with focus on the direct services designed to improve it.
(18) Independent study. - Directed study undertaken by an individual with little or no supervision that does not include traditional classroom-based study that must be preapproved by the Board or any organization that has deemed status with the Board, or any online course of study that does not include a network-enabled transfer of skills and knowledge from teacher to student being performed at the same time.
(19) Licensed clinical addictions specialist. - A person licensed by the Board to practice as a clinical addictions specialist in accordance with the provisions of this Article.
(19a) Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. - A registrant who successfully completes 300 hours of Board-approved supervised practical training in pursuit of licensure as a clinical addictions specialist.
(20) Practice supervisor. - A certified clinical supervisor, clinical supervisor intern, or licensed clinical addictions specialist who provides oversight and responsibility in a face-to-face capacity for each certified alcohol and drug counselor or criminal justice addictions professional.
(21) Prevention. - The reduction, delay, or avoidance of alcohol and of other drug use behavior. "Prevention" includes the promotion of positive environments and individual strengths that contribute to personal health and well-being over an entire life and the development of strategies that encourage individuals, families, and communities to take part in assessing and changing their lifestyles and environments.
(22) Professional discipline. - A field of study characterized by the technical, educational, and ethical standards of a profession.
(23) Registrant. - A person who completes all requirements to be registered with the Board and is supervised by a certified clinical supervisor or clinical supervisor intern.
(24) Substance use disorder counseling. - The assessment, evaluation, and provision of counseling and therapeutic service to persons suffering from substance use disorder or dependency.
(25) Renumbered as subdivision (1).
(26) (For effective until date - see note) Substance use disorder professional. - A registrant, certified alcohol and drug counselor, alcohol and drug counselor intern, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, licensed clinical addictions specialist, certified substance abuse residential facility director, clinical supervisor intern, or certified criminal justice addictions professional.
(26) (For postponed effective date, see note) Substance use disorder professional. - A registrant, certified alcohol and drug counselor, alcohol and drug counselor intern, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, licensed clinical addictions specialist, clinical supervisor intern, or certified criminal justice addictions professional.
(27) Traditional classroom-based study. - An educational method of learning involving face-to-face communication or other shared communication being performed in either a shared physical setting or by audio conferencing methods, video conferencing methods, or both. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s.2; 1999-164, s. 1; 1999-456, s. 24; 2001-370, s. 1; 2005-431, s. 1; 2008-130, s. 1; 2012-12, s. 2(hh); 2012-72, s. 5; 2015-181, s. 47; 2019-240, ss. 4(a), 8(c), 9(b), (c); 2023-83, s. 1(a).)
§ 90-113.31B. Scope of practice.
The scope of practice is the use by all substance use disorder professionals and their ongoing supervisees of principles, methods, and procedures of the Twelve Core Functions or performance domains as prescribed by the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, Incorporated, and as limited by individual credential and supervisory requirements pursuant to this Article. Specifically, the scope of practice for each individual defined as a substance use disorder professional under G.S. 90-113.31A is as follows:
(1) The practice of a certified alcohol and drug counselor consists of the Twelve Core Functions, including screening, intake, orientation, assessment, treatment planning, counseling, case management, crisis intervention, client education, report and record keeping, consultation with other professionals in regard to client treatment and services, and referral to treat addictive disorder or disease and help prevent relapse.
(2) The practice of a certified prevention specialist is based on knowledge in the performance domains to prevent or reduce the conditions that place individuals at increased risk of developing addictive disorder or disease and help prevent relapse.
(3) The practice of a certified clinical supervisor is based on knowledge in the performance domains to supervise substance use disorder professionals who work to treat, prevent, or reduce the conditions that place individuals at risk of developing addictive disorder or disease and help prevent relapse.
(4) The practice of a licensed clinical addictions specialist may be independent and consists of the Twelve Core Functions, including screening, intake, orientation, assessment, treatment planning, counseling, case management, crisis intervention, client education, report and record keeping, consultation with other professionals in regard to client treatment and services, referral to reduce the conditions that place individuals at risk of developing addictive disorder or disease with co-occurring disorders, and treatment for addictive disorder or disease. The licensed clinical addictions specialist may provide supervision to maintain a professional credential as defined by this Article.
(5) (Postponed repeal - see note) The practice of a certified substance abuse residential facility director is a voluntary credential and consists of the Twelve Core Functions, including screening, intake, orientation, assessment, treatment planning, counseling, case management, crisis intervention, client education, report and record keeping, consultation with professionals in regard to client treatment and services, referral to prevent or reduce the conditions that place individuals at increased risk of developing addictive disorder or disease, treatment for addictive disorder or disease, and the prevention of relapse as well as academic management training.
(6) The practice of a certified criminal justice addictions professional is based on knowledge in the performance domains of dynamics of addiction in criminal behavior; legal, ethical, and professional responsibility; criminal justice system and processes; screening, intake, and assessment; case management; monitoring; and client supervision and counseling to prevent or reduce the conditions that place individuals at increased risk of developing addictive disorder or disease, treat addictive disorder or disease, and help prevent relapse. (2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, ss. 8(d), 9(d).)
§ 90-113.32. Board; composition; voting.
(a) The North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board is created as the authority to credential substance use disorder professionals in North Carolina.
(b) Repealed by Session Laws 2008-130, s. 2, effective July 28, 2008.
(c) Repealed by Session Laws 2019-240, s. 5(b), effective July 1, 2020.
(c1) Every member of the Board shall have the right to vote on all matters before the Board, except for the chair who shall vote only in case of a tie or when another member of the Board abstains on the question of whether the professional discipline the member represents shall retain its deemed status.
(c2) The Board shall consist of nine members appointed as follows:
(1) Two members appointed by the General Assembly, upon the recommendation of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, each of whom shall be licensed or certified in accordance with this Article. In making the appointments, the Speaker shall consider the ethnicity and gender of the Board's members in order to reflect the composition of the State's population and shall consider the experience and knowledge of the drug and alcohol recovery community when selecting members to serve on the Board.
(2) Two members appointed by the General Assembly, upon the recommendation of the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, each of whom shall be licensed or certified in accordance with this Article. In making the appointments, the President Pro Tempore shall consider the ethnicity and gender of the Board's members in order to reflect the composition of the State's population and shall consider the experience and knowledge of the drug and alcohol recovery community when selecting members to serve on the Board.
(3) Five members appointed by the Governor as follows:
a. Two members licensed or certified in accordance with this Article. In making the appointments, the Governor shall consider the ethnicity and gender of the Board's members in order to reflect the composition of the State's population and shall consider the experience and knowledge of the drug and alcohol recovery community when selecting members to serve on the Board.
b. Two members of the public who are not licensed or certified under this Article.
c. One member who is licensed or certified under this Article, selected from the allied mental health, substance use disorder and developmental disabilities treatment and prevention profession, previously known as deemed status professions.
(4) All members of the Board shall be residents of the State of North Carolina, and except for the public members, shall be certified or licensed by the Board under the provisions of this Article. Professional members of the Board must be actively engaged in the practice of substance use disorder counseling or prevention or in the education and training of students in substance use disorder counseling and have been for at least three years prior to their appointment to the Board. Practice during the two years preceding the appointment shall have occurred primarily in this State.
(d) Repealed by Session Laws 2019-240, s. 5(e), effective July 1, 2020.
(e) Members of the Board shall serve for three-year terms. No Board member shall serve for more than two consecutive terms, but a person who has been a member for two consecutive terms may be reappointed after being off the Board for a period of at least one year.
(e1) Initial members of the Board shall serve staggered terms. The members identified in subdivision (1) of subsection (c2) and sub-subdivision (3)c. of subsection (c2) of this section shall be appointed initially for a term of one year. The members identified in subdivision (2) of subsection (c2) of this section shall be appointed initially for a term of two years. The members identified in sub-subdivisions (3)a. and (3)b. of subsection (c2) of this section shall be appointed initially for a term of three years.
At the end of their respective terms of office, their successors shall be appointed for terms of three years, effective July 1. A vacancy occurring before the expiration of the term of office shall be filled in the same manner as original appointments for the remainder of the term.
(f) If a member becomes ineligible to serve on the Board for any reason, except when the member has committed an ethical violation that results in the suspension or revocation of the member's professional credentials, that member may fulfill the remainder of his or her term on the Board.
(g) A Board member may not receive compensation but may receive reimbursement as provided in G.S. 93B-5. The officers of the Board include a chair, a secretary, and any other officer deemed necessary by the Board to carry out the purposes of this Article. All officers shall be elected annually by the Board at its first meeting held after appointments are made to the Board. The Board shall hold a meeting within 45 days after the appointment of new Board members. All officers shall serve one-year terms and shall serve until their successors are elected and qualified. No person shall chair the Board for more than four consecutive years. The Board may adopt rules governing the calling, holding, and conducting of regular and special meetings. A majority of Board members constitutes a quorum. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; c. 773, s. 15.2(a), (b); 1997-443, s. 11A.118(a); 1997-492, s. 3; 1999-164, ss. 2-4; 2005-431, s. 1; 2008-130, ss. 2, 3; 2019-240, s. 5(a)-(h).)
§ 90-113.33. Board; powers and duties.
The Board shall:
(1) Examine and determine the qualifications and fitness of applicants for certification and licensure to practice in this State.
(1a) Determine the qualifications and fitness of organizations applying for deemed status.
(2) Issue, renew, deny, suspend, or revoke licensure, certification, or registration to practice in this State or reprimand or otherwise discipline a license, certificate, or registration holder in this State.
(3) Deal with issues concerning reciprocity.
(4) Conduct investigations for the purpose of determining whether violations of this Article or grounds for disciplining exists.
(5) Employ and fix the compensation of personnel and legal counsel that the Board determines is necessary to carry out the provisions of this Article. The Board's employment of legal counsel is subject to the provisions of G.S. 114-2.3. The Board may purchase or rent necessary office space, equipment, and supplies.
(6) Conduct administrative hearings in accordance with Chapter 150B of the General Statutes when a "contested case", as defined in Chapter 150B, arises.
(7) Appoint from its own membership one or more members to act as representatives of the Board at any meeting in which it considers this representation is desirable.
(8) Establish fees for applications for examination, registration, certificates of certification, licensure, and renewal, and other services provided by the Board.
(9) Adopt any rules necessary to carry out the purpose of this Article and its duties and responsibilities pursuant to this Article, including rules related to the approval of a substance use disorder specialty curricula developed by a school, college, or university.
(10) Request that the Department of Public Safety conduct criminal history record checks of applicants for registration, certification, or licensure pursuant to G.S. 143B-1209.22.
(11) Establish a program for licensees who may be experiencing substance use disorders, burnout, compassion fatigue, and other mental health concerns. In establishing this program, the Board is authorized to enter into agreements with existing professional health care programs. The Board is also authorized to refer any licensee to this program as part of the disciplinary process. The Board may adopt rules implementing this program.
The powers and duties enumerated in this section are granted for the purposes of enabling the Board to safeguard the public health, safety, and welfare against unqualified or incompetent practitioners and are to be liberally construed to accomplish this objective. When the Board exercises its authority under this Article to discipline a person, it may, as part of the decision imposing the discipline, charge the costs of investigations and the hearing to the person disciplined. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 4; 1999-164, s. 5; 2001-370, ss. 2, 3; 2005-431, s. 1; 2011-254, s. 3; 2014-100, s. 17.1(ii); 2019-240, ss. 7(a), 8(e); 2023-134, s. 19F.4(u).)
§ 90-113.33A. Officers may administer oaths, and subpoena witnesses, records, and other materials.
The President or other presiding officer of the Board may administer oaths to all persons appearing before it as the Board may deem necessary to perform its duties, and may summon and issue subpoenas for the appearance of any witnesses deemed necessary to testify concerning any matter to be heard before or inquired into by the Board. The Board may order that any client records, documents, or other materials concerning any matter to be heard before or inquired into by the Board shall be produced before the Board or made available for inspection, notwithstanding any other provisions of law providing for the application of any counselor-client or physician-patient privilege with respect to such records, documents, or other materials. All records, documents, or other materials compiled by the Board are subject to the provisions of G.S. 90-113.34, except that in any proceeding before the Board, record of any hearing before the Board, and notice of charges against any person credentialed by the Board, the Board shall withhold from public disclosure the identity of a client, including information relating to dates and places of treatment, or any other information that tends to identify the client unless the client or the client's representative has expressly consented to the disclosure. Upon written request, the Board shall revoke a subpoena if, upon a hearing, it finds that the evidence sought does not relate to a matter in issue, the subpoena does not describe the evidence with sufficient particularity, or the subpoena is invalid. (1999-164, s. 6; 2005-431, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.34. Records to be kept; copies of records.
(a) The Board shall keep a regular record of its proceedings, together with the names of the members of the Board present, the names of the applicants for registration, certification, and licensure as well as other information relevant to its actions. The Board shall cause a record to be kept that shall show the name, last known place of business, last known place of residence, and date and number of the credential assigned to each substance use disorder professional meeting the standards set forth in this Article. Any interested person in the State is entitled to obtain a copy of Board records upon application to the Board and payment of a reasonable charge that is based on the costs involved in providing the copy.
(b) The Board may in a closed session receive evidence regarding the provision of substance use disorder counseling or other treatment and services provided to a client who has not expressly or through implication consented to the public disclosure of such treatment as may be necessary for the protection of the rights of the client or of the accused registrant or substance use disorder professional and the full presentation of relevant evidence. All records, papers, and other documents containing information collected and compiled by the Board, its members, or employees as a result of investigations, inquiries, or interviews conducted in connection with awarding a credential or a disciplinary matter shall not be considered public records within the meaning of Chapter 132 of the General Statutes, except any notice or statement of charges, or notice of hearing shall be a public record notwithstanding that it may contain information collected and compiled as a result of an investigation, inquiry, or interview. If any record, paper, or other document containing information collected and compiled by the Board as provided in this subsection is received and admitted in evidence in any hearing before the Board, it shall thereupon be a public record.
(c) Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, the Board may, in any proceeding, record of any hearing, and notice of charges, withhold from public disclosure the identity of a client who has not expressly or through implication consented to such disclosure of treatment by the accused substance use disorder professional. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 5; 1999-164, s. 7; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, s. 8(f).)
§ 90-113.35. Disposition of funds.
All fees and other moneys collected and received by the Board shall be used to implement this Article. The financial records of the Board shall be subjected to an annual audit and paid for out of the funds of the Board. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.36. Credentials.
(a) The Board shall furnish a certificate of certification or licensure to each applicant successfully completing the requirements for his or her credential.
(b) The Board may furnish a certificate of certification or licensure to any person in another state or territory if the individual's qualifications were, at the date of registration, certification, or licensure, substantially equal to the requirements under this Article. However, an out-of-state applicant shall first file application and pay any required fees. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 2005-431, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.37: Repealed by Session Laws 2005-431, s. 1, effective September 22, 2005.
§ 90-113.37A. Renewal of credential; lapse.
(a) Every person credentialed pursuant to this Article who desires to maintain his or her credentials shall apply to the Board for a renewal of certification or licensure every other year and pay to the treasurer the prescribed fee.
(b) Renewal of licensure is subject to completion of at least 40 hours of the continuing education requirements established by the Board. Renewal of alcohol and drug counselor or prevention specialist certification is subject to completion of at least 60 hours of the continuing education requirements established by the Board. A certified alcohol and drug counselor shall submit a Board-approved supervision contract signed by the certified alcohol and drug counselor and a practice supervisor documenting ongoing supervision at a ratio of one hour of supervision to every 40 hours of practice after the certification is granted by the Board. After two years of practice as a certified alcohol and drug counselor, the ratio of supervision shall be one hour of supervision to every 80 hours of practice. After four years of practice as a certified alcohol and drug counselor, the ratio of supervision shall be one hour of supervision to every 160 hours of practice.
A clinical supervisor shall complete at least 15 hours of substance use disorder clinical supervision training prior to the certificate being renewed. A certified criminal justice addictions professional shall complete at least 40 hours of continuing education that must be earned in the certified criminal justice addictions professional performance domains. A certified criminal justice addictions professional shall submit a Board-approved supervision contract signed by the criminal justice addictions professional and a practice supervisor documenting ongoing supervision at a ratio of one hour of supervision to every 40 hours of practice after certification is granted by the Board. After two years as a certified criminal justice addictions professional, the ratio of supervision shall be one hour of supervision to every 80 hours of practice. After four years of practice as a certified criminal justice addictions professional, the ratio of supervision shall be one hour of supervision to every 160 hours of practice.
(c) Independent study hours shall compose no more than fifty percent (50%) of the total number of hours required for renewal.
(d) A credential that is not renewed automatically lapses, unless the Board approves the late renewal of a credential upon the payment of a late fee.
(e) No late renewal shall be granted more than five years after a certification or licensure expires.
(f) A suspended credential may be renewed as provided in this section. This renewal does not entitle the credentialed person to engage in conduct or activity in violation of the order or judgment by which the credential was suspended, until the credential is reinstated. If a credential revoked on disciplinary grounds is reinstated and requires renewal, the credentialed person shall pay the renewal fee and any applicable late fee.
(g) The Board shall establish the manner in which lapsed certification or licensure may be revived or extended. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 6; 1999-164, s. 8; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, s. 8(g); 2023-83, s. 1(b).)
§ 90-113.38. Maximums for certain fees.
(a) (For effective until date - see note) The fee to obtain a certificate of certification as an alcohol and drug counselor, prevention specialist, clinical supervisor, substance abuse residential facility director, or certified criminal justice addictions professional may not exceed four hundred seventy-five dollars ($475.00). The fee to renew a certificate may not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
(a) (For postponed effective date, see note) The fee to obtain a certificate of certification as an alcohol and drug counselor, prevention specialist, clinical supervisor, or certified criminal justice addictions professional may not exceed four hundred seventy-five dollars ($475.00). The fee to renew a certificate may not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
(b) The fee to obtain a certificate of licensure for a clinical addictions specialist pursuant to deemed status shall not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00). The fee to renew a license for a clinical addictions specialist pursuant to deemed status shall not exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00). The fee to obtain a license for a clinical addictions specialist pursuant to all other procedures authorized by this Article shall not exceed four hundred seventy-five dollars ($475.00). The fee to renew the license shall not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
(b1) The fee to obtain a registration as a registrant shall not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00). The fee to renew a registration shall not exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00).
(c) There shall be a reexamination fee of one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00) which shall be paid for each reexamination in addition to the fees authorized pursuant to subsection (a) of this section. There shall be a fee not to exceed twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for rescheduling any examination.
(d) There shall be a fee not to exceed twenty-five dollars ($25.00) to obtain a written verification or additional copy of a credential issued by the Board.
(e) There shall be a late renewal fee not to exceed one hundred twenty-five dollars ($125.00).
(f) In addition to any other prescribed fees, the Board shall charge a fee not to exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00) for each administration of the test an applicant must pass to be credentialed as a United States Department of Transportation substance use disorder professional. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 7; 1998-217, s. 25(a); 2001-370, s. 4; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, ss. 8(h), 9(e).)
§ 90-113.39. Standards for credentials.
The Board shall establish standards to credential substance abuse professionals. The credentialing standards of the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, Incorporated and the standards adopted by professional disciplines granted deemed status or their successor organizations may be used as guidelines for the Board's standards. The Board shall publish these required standards. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 8; 1999-164, s. 9; 2005-431, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.40. Requirements for certification and licensure.
(a) The Board shall issue a certificate certifying an applicant as a "Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor" or as a "Certified Prevention Specialist" if:
(1) The applicant is of good moral character.
(2) The applicant is not and has not engaged in any practice or conduct that would be grounds for disciplinary action under G.S. 90-113.44.
(3) The applicant is qualified for certification pursuant to the requirements of this Article and any rules adopted pursuant to it.
(4) The applicant has, at a minimum, a high school diploma or a high school equivalency certificate.
(5) The applicant has signed a form attesting to the intention to adhere fully to the ethical standards adopted by the Board.
(5a) The applicant submits to a complete criminal history record check pursuant to G.S. 90-113.46A.
(6) The applicant has completed 270 hours of Board-approved education. The Board may prescribe that a certain number of hours be in a course of study for substance use disorder counseling and that a certain number of hours be in a course of study for substance abuse prevention consulting. Independent study hours shall not compose more than fifty percent (50%) of the total number of hours required for initial credentialing.
(7) The applicant has documented completion of a minimum of 300 hours of Supervised Practical Training, has provided a Board-approved supervision contract between the applicant and an applicant supervisor, and has been deemed recommended by the applicant supervisor to advance in the credentialing process.
(8) The applicant for substance use disorder counselor has completed a total of 6,000 hours of supervised experience in the field, whether paid or volunteer. The applicant for prevention specialist has completed a total of 6,000 hours supervised experience in the field, whether paid or volunteer, or 4,000 hours if the applicant has at least a bachelor's degree in a human services field from a regionally accredited college or university.
(9) The applicant has obtained a passing score on a written examination.
(b) The Board shall issue a certificate certifying an individual as a "Certified Clinical Supervisor" if the applicant:
(1) Submits proof of designation by the Board as a clinical supervisor intern.
(2) Submits proof that the applicant has a minimum of a master's degree in a human services field with a clinical application from a regionally accredited college or university.
(3) Has 4,000 hours experience as a substance use disorder clinical supervisor as documented by his or her certified clinical supervisor.
(4) Has 30 hours of substance use disorder clinical supervision specific education or training. These hours shall be reflective of the Twelve Core Functions in the applicant's clinical application and practice and may also be counted toward the applicant's renewal as an alcohol and drug counselor or a clinical addictions specialist.
(5) Submits a letter of reference from a certified clinical supervisor who can attest to the applicant's supervisory competence and two letters of reference from either counselors who have been supervised by the applicant or professionals who can attest to the applicant's competence.
(6) Obtains a passing score on a written examination administered by the Board.
(b1) The Board shall designate an applicant as a "Clinical Supervisor Intern" if, in addition to meeting the requirements of subdivisions (a)(1) through (5a) of this section, the applicant meets the following qualifications:
(1) Submits an application, resume, and official transcript showing that the applicant has obtained a master's degree in a human services field with a clinical application from a regionally accredited college or university.
(2) Submits verification statements.
(3) Submits proof of credentialing as a licensed clinical addictions specialist.
(4) Submits documentation establishing that the applicant has completed at least fifty percent of the required clinical supervision specific training hours as defined by the Board.
(c) The Board shall issue a license credentialing an applicant as a "Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist" if, in addition to meeting the requirements of subdivisions (a)(1) through (5a) of this section, the applicant meets one of the following criteria:
(1) Criteria A. - The applicant:
a. Has a minimum of a master's degree with a clinical application in a human services field from a regionally accredited college or university.
b. Has two years postgraduate supervised substance use disorder counseling experience.
c. Submits three letters of reference from licensed clinical addictions specialists or certified alcohol and drug counselors who have obtained master's degrees.
d. Has achieved a passing score on a master's level written examination administered by the Board.
e. Has attained 180 hours of substance use disorder specific training from either a regionally accredited college or university, which may include unlimited independent study, or from training events of which no more than fifty percent (50%) shall be in independent study. All hours shall be credited according to the standards set forth in G.S. 90-113.41A.
f. The applicant has documented completion of a minimum of 300 hours of supervised practical training and has provided a Board-approved supervision contract between the applicant and an applicant supervisor.
(2) Criteria B. - The applicant:
a. Has a minimum of a master's degree with a clinical application in a human services field from a regionally accredited college or university.
b. Has been certified as a substance abuse counselor.
c. Repealed by Session Laws 2008-130, s. 4, effective July 28, 2008.
d. Has achieved a passing score on a master's level written examination administered by the Board.
e. Submits three letters of reference from either licensed clinical addictions specialists or certified alcohol and drug counselors who have obtained master's degrees.
(3) Criteria C. - The applicant:
a. Has a minimum of a master's degree in a human services field with both a clinical application and a substance use disorder specialty from a regionally accredited college or university that includes 180 hours of substance use disorder specific education and training pursuant to G.S. 90-113.41A.
b. Has one year of postgraduate supervised substance use disorder counseling experience.
c. Has achieved a passing score on a master's level written examination administered by the Board.
d. Submits three letters of reference from licensed clinical addictions specialists or certified alcohol and drug counselors who have obtained master's degrees.
(4) Criteria D. - The applicant has a substance use disorder certification from a professional discipline that has been granted deemed status by the Board.
(d) Repealed by Session Laws 2019-240, s. 8(i), effective January 1, 2020, and applicable to licenses granted or renewed on or after that date.
(d1) The Board shall issue a certificate certifying an applicant as a "Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional", with the acronym "CCJP", if in addition to meeting the requirements of subdivisions (a)(1) through (5a) of this section, the applicant:
(1) Has attained 270 hours of Board-approved education or training, unless the applicant has attained a minimum of a masters degree with a clinical application and a substance use disorder specialty from a regionally accredited college or university whereby the applicant must only obtain 180 hours. The hours of education shall be specifically related to the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the tasks within the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, Incorporated, "IC&RC/AODA, Inc.," criminal justice addictions professional performance domains as they relate to both adults and juveniles. Independent study may compose up to fifty percent (50%) of the total number of hours obtained for initial certification or renewal.
(2) Has documented 300 hours of Board-approved supervised practical training. This supervision shall mean the administrative, clinical, and evaluative process of monitoring, assessing, and enhancing professional performance. A minimum of 10 hours of supervision in each criminal justice domain established by the IC&RC/AODA, Inc., is required.
(3) Has provided documentation of supervised work experience providing direct service to clients or offenders involved in one of the three branches of the criminal justice system, which include law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections. The applicant must meet one of the following criteria:
a. Criteria A. - In addition to having a high school diploma or an adult high school equivalency diploma, the applicant has a minimum of 6,000 hours of documented work experience in direct services in criminal justice or addictions services or any combination of these services that have been obtained during the past 10 years.
b. Criteria B. - In addition to having an associate degree, the applicant has a minimum of 5,000 hours of documented work experience in direct services in criminal justice or addictions services or any combination of these services obtained during the past 10 years.
c. Criteria C. - In addition to having at least a bachelors degree, the applicant has a minimum of 4,000 hours of documented work experience in direct services in criminal justice or addictions services, or any combination of these services, and this experience has been obtained during the past 10 years.
d. Criteria D. - In addition to having at least a masters degree in a human services field, the applicant has a minimum of 2,000 hours of documented work experience in direct services in criminal justice or addictions services or any combination of these services that has been obtained during the past 10 years.
e. Criteria E. - In addition to having at least a masters degree in a human services field with a specialty from a regionally accredited college or university that includes 180 hours of substance use disorder specific education or training, the applicant has a minimum of 2,000 hours of postgraduate supervised substance use disorder counseling experience.
f. Criteria F. - In addition to having obtained the credential of a certified clinical addictions specialist or other advanced credential in a human services field from an organization that has obtained deemed status with the Board, the applicant has a minimum of 1,000 hours of documented work experience in direct services in criminal justice or addictions services that has been obtained during the past 10 years.
(4) Has passed the IC&RC/AODA, Inc., certified criminal justice addictions professional written examination.
(e) The Board shall publish from time to time information in order to provide specifics for potential applicants of an acceptable educational curriculum and the terms of acceptable supervised fieldwork experience.
(f) Effective January 1, 2003, only a person who is certified as a certified clinical supervisor or a clinical supervisor intern shall be qualified to supervise applicants for certified clinical supervisor and certified alcohol and drug counselor and applicants for licensed clinical addictions specialist who meet the qualifications of their credential other than through deemed status as provided in G.S. 90-113.40(c)(4). (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 9; 1998-217, s. 10; 1999-164, s. 10; 2005-431, s. 1; 2008-130, s. 4; 2014-115, s. 28(c); 2019-240, ss. 6(a), (b), 8(i).)
§ 90-113.40A. Requirements for registration.
(a) Upon application and payment of the required fee, the Board shall issue a registration designating an applicant as a registrant if the applicant:
(1) Provides documentation that he or she has received a high school diploma, or the equivalent, and evidence of any baccalaureate or advanced degrees the applicant has received.
(2) Completes a registration application on a form provided by the Board.
(3) Provides documentation of three hours of educational training in ethics.
(4) Signs a form attesting to the applicant's commitment to adhere to the ethical standards adopted by the Board.
(4a) Submits to a complete criminal history record check pursuant to G.S. 90-113.46A.
(5) Signs a supervision contract provided by the Board that documents the proposed supervision process by an applicant supervisor.
(b) Registrant status shall be maintained for a period of up to five years while the registrant is in the process of completing his or her requirements for credentials pursuant to this Article. If at the end of a five-year period a registrant has not obtained a credential under this Article, the Board shall renew the registration for up to an additional five-year period after the registrant pays the required fee and complies with all requirements for registration pursuant to G.S. 90-113.40A. The Board shall terminate the registration of any registrant who fails to renew his or her registration.
(c) The registrant shall notify the Board of any criminal conviction imposed during the period of registration. (2001-370, s. 5; 2005-431, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.40B. Applicant supervision.
The Board shall designate a person as an applicant supervisor of individuals applying for registration, certification, or licensure as a substance use disorder professional as follows:
(1) A certified clinical supervisor shall supervise a clinical supervisor intern.
(2) A certified clinical supervisor or a clinical supervisor intern shall supervise a clinical addictions specialist applicant, or an alcohol and drug counselor applicant.
(3) Repealed by Session Laws 2005-431, s. 1, effective September 22, 2005.
(4) A certified prevention specialist with a minimum of three years of professional experience, a certified clinical supervisor, or a clinical supervisor intern shall supervise a registrant applying for certification as a prevention specialist.
(5) Pursuant to the deemed status procedure under G.S. 90-113.41A, the supervision requirements described in subdivisions (1) through (4) of this section shall not apply to persons applying for licensure as a licensed clinical addictions specialist.
(6) A criminal justice addictions professional applicant shall be supervised by a certified clinical supervisor or clinical supervisor intern. (2001-370, s. 6; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, s. 8(j).)
§ 90-113.41. Examination.
(a) Except for those individuals applying for licensure under G.S. 90-113.41A, applicants for certification or licensure under this Article shall file an application at least 60 days prior to the date of examination and upon the forms and in the manner prescribed by the Board. The application shall be accompanied by the appropriate fee. No portion of this fee is refundable. Applicants who fail an examination may apply for reexamination upon the payment of another examination fee.
(b) Each applicant for certification or licensure under this Article shall be tested in an examination developed by the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, Incorporated and the standards adopted by professional disciplines granted deemed status or their successor organizations.
(c) Applicants for certification or licensure shall be examined at a time and place and under the supervision that the Board determines. Examinations shall be given in this State at least twice each year.
(d) Applicants may obtain their examination scores and may review their examination papers in accordance with rules the Board adopts and agreements between Board-authorized test development companies. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 10; 1999-164, s. 11; 2005-431, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.41A. Deemed status.
(a) To be granted deemed status by the Board, a credentialing body of a professional discipline or its designee shall demonstrate that its substance use disorder credentialing program substantially meets the following:
(1) Each person to whom the credentialing body awards credentials following the effective date of this act meets and maintains minimum requirements in substance use disorder specific content areas. Each person also has a minimum of a master's degree with a clinical application in a human services field.
(2) The body requires 180 hours, or the equivalent thereof, of substance use disorder specific education and training that covers the following content areas:
a. Basic addiction and cross addiction Physiology and Pharmacology of Psychoactive drugs that are abused.
b. Screening, assessment, and intake of clients.
c. Individual, group, and family counseling.
d. Treatment, planning, reporting, and record keeping.
e. Crisis intervention.
f. Case management and treatment resources.
g. Ethics, legal issues, and confidentiality.
h. Psychological, emotional, personality, and developmental issues.
i. Co-occurring physical and mental disabilities.
j. Special population issues, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, and health status.
k. Traditions and philosophies of recovery treatment models and support groups.
(3) The program requires one year or its equivalent of post-degree supervised clinical substance use disorder practice. At least fifty percent (50%) of the practice shall consist of direct substance use disorder clinical care.
(b) The professional discipline seeking deemed status shall require its members to adhere to a code of ethical conduct and shall enforce that code with disciplinary action.
(c) The Board may grant deemed status to any professional discipline that substantially meets the standards in this section. Once such status has been granted, an individual within the professional discipline may apply to the Board for the credential of licensed clinical addictions specialist.
(d) The Standards Committee of the Board shall review the standards of each professional discipline every third year from the date it was granted deemed status to determine if the discipline continues to substantially meet the requirements of this section. If the Committee finds that a professional discipline no longer meets the requirements of this section, it shall report its findings to the Board at the Board's next regularly scheduled meeting. The deemed status standing of a professional discipline's credential may be discontinued by a two-thirds vote of the Board. (1997-492, s. 11; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, s. 8(k).)
§ 90-113.41B. Change of name or address.
Every person licensed, certified, or registered under the provisions of this Article shall give written notice to the Board of any change in his or her name or address within 60 business days after the change takes place. (2001-370, s. 8; 2005-431, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.42. Violations; exemptions.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person not licensed or otherwise credentialed as a substance use disorder professional pursuant to this Article to engage in those activities set forth in the scope of practice of a substance use disorder professional under G.S. 90-113.31B, unless that person is regulated by another profession or is a registrant or intern as defined by this Article.
(b) It is not the intent of this Article to regulate members of other regulated professions who provide substance use disorder services or consultation in the normal course of the practice of their profession.
(c) This Article does not apply to any person registered, certified, or licensed by the State or federal government to practice any other occupation or profession while rendering substance use disorder services or consultation in the performance of the occupation or profession for which the person is registered, certified, or licensed.
(d) (For effective until date - see note) Only individuals registered, certified, or licensed under this Article may use the title "Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor", "Certified Prevention Specialist", "Certified Clinical Supervisor", "Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate", "Certified Substance Abuse Residential Facility Director", "Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional", "Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern", "Provisional Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist", "Clinical Supervisor Intern", or "Registrant".
(d) (For postponed effective date, see note) Only individuals registered, certified, or licensed under this Article may use the title "Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor", "Certified Prevention Specialist", "Certified Clinical Supervisor", "Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate", "Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional", "Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern", "Provisional Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist", "Clinical Supervisor Intern", or "Registrant". (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 12; 2005-431, s. 1; 2008-130, s. 5; 2012-72, s. 6; 2019-240, ss. 8(l), 9(f).)
§ 90-113.43. Illegal practice; misdemeanor penalty.
(a) (For effective until date - see note) Except as otherwise authorized in this Article, no person shall:
(1) Offer substance use disorder professional services, practice, attempt to practice, or supervise while holding himself or herself out to be a certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, certified substance abuse residential facility director, certified criminal justice addictions professional, clinical supervisor intern, alcohol and drug counselor intern, or registrant without first having obtained a notification of registration, certification, or licensure from the Board.
(2) Use in connection with any name any letters, words, numerical codes, or insignia indicating or implying that this person is a registrant, certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, certified substance abuse residential facility director, alcohol and drug counselor intern, certified criminal justice addictions professional, or licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, unless this person is registered, certified, or licensed pursuant to this Article.
(3) Practice or attempt to practice as a certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, certified criminal justice addictions professional, alcohol and drug counselor intern, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, clinical supervisor intern, certified substance abuse residential facility director or registrant with a revoked, lapsed, or suspended certification or license.
(4) Aid, abet, or assist any person to practice as a certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified criminal justice addictions professional, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, certified substance abuse residential facility director, registrant, alcohol and drug counselor intern, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, or clinical supervisor intern in violation of this Article.
(5) Knowingly serve in a position required by State law or rule or federal law or regulation to be filled by a registrant, certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified criminal justice addictions professional, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, certified substance abuse residential facility director, alcohol and drug counselor intern, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, or clinical supervisor intern unless that person is registered, certified, or licensed under this Article.
(6) Repealed by S.L. 1997-492, s. 13.
(7) Repealed by Session Laws 2008-130, s. 6, effective July 28, 2008.
(a) (For postponed effective date, see note) Except as otherwise authorized in this Article, no person shall:
(1) Offer substance use disorder professional services, practice, attempt to practice, or supervise while holding himself or herself out to be a certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, certified criminal justice addictions professional, clinical supervisor intern, alcohol and drug counselor intern, or registrant without first having obtained a notification of registration, certification, or licensure from the Board.
(2) Use in connection with any name any letters, words, numerical codes, or insignia indicating or implying that this person is a registrant, certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, alcohol and drug counselor intern, certified criminal justice addictions professional, or licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, unless this person is registered, certified, or licensed pursuant to this Article.
(3) Practice or attempt to practice as a certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, certified criminal justice addictions professional, alcohol and drug counselor intern, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, clinical supervisor intern, or registrant with a revoked, lapsed, or suspended certification or license.
(4) Aid, abet, or assist any person to practice as a certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified criminal justice addictions professional, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, registrant, alcohol and drug counselor intern, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, or clinical supervisor intern in violation of this Article.
(5) Knowingly serve in a position required by State law or rule or federal law or regulation to be filled by a registrant, certified alcohol and drug counselor, certified prevention specialist, certified criminal justice addictions professional, certified clinical supervisor, licensed clinical addictions specialist, alcohol and drug counselor intern, licensed clinical addictions specialist associate, or clinical supervisor intern unless that person is registered, certified, or licensed under this Article.
(6) Repealed by S.L. 1997-492, s. 13.
(7) Repealed by Session Laws 2008-130, s. 6, effective July 28, 2008.
(b) A person who engages in any of the illegal practices enumerated by this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Each act of unlawful practice constitutes a distinct and separate offense. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 13; 2005-431, s. 1; 2008-130, s. 6; 2012-72, s. 7; 2019-240, ss. 8(m), 9(g).)
§ 90-113.44. Grounds for disciplinary action.
(a) Grounds for disciplinary action for an applicant or credentialed professional include:
(1) The employment of fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation in obtaining or attempting to obtain licensure, certification, or registration or renewal of licensure, certification, or registration.
(2) The use of drugs or alcoholic beverages to the extent that professional competency is affected.
(2a) The use of drugs or alcoholic beverages to the extent that a substance use disorder professional suffers impairment.
(3) Conviction of an offense under any municipal, State, or federal law other than traffic laws as prescribed by Chapter 20 of the General Statutes.
(4) Conviction of a felony or other public offense involving moral turpitude. Conviction of a Class A-E felony shall result in an immediate suspension of licensure, certification, or registration for a minimum of one year.
(5) An adjudication of insanity or incompetency, until proof of recovery from this condition can be established by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist.
(6) Engaging in any act or practice in violation of any of the provisions of this Article or any of the rules adopted pursuant to it, or aiding, abetting, or assisting any other person in such a violation.
(7) The commission of an act of malpractice, gross negligence, or incompetence while serving as a substance use disorder professional, intern, or registrant.
(8) Repealed by Session Laws 2005-431, s. 1, effective September 22, 2005.
(9) Engaging in conduct that could result in harm or injury to the public.
(10) Entering into a dual relationship that impairs professional judgment or increases the risk of exploitation with a client or supervisee.
(11) Practicing as a credentialed substance use disorder professional outside of his or her scope of practice pursuant to G.S. 90-113.31B.
(b) Denial of an applicant's licensure, certification, or registration or the granting of licensure, certification, or registration on a probationary or other conditional status shall be subject to substantially the same rules and procedures prescribed by the Board for review and disciplinary actions against any person holding a license, certificate, or registration. A suspension of a credential resulting from impairment due to substance use, mental health, or medical disorder shall be imposed for at least six months beginning from the date of successful discharge from a residential substance use disorder treatment program or other appropriate treatment modality determined as a result of an assessment by a Board-approved assessor. Disciplinary actions involving a clinical addictions specialist whose licensure is achieved through deemed status shall be initially heard by the specialist's credentialing body. The specialist may appeal the body's decision to the Board. The Board shall, however, have the discretionary authority to hear the initial disciplinary action involving a credentialed professional. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 14; 2001-370, s. 7; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, s. 8(n).)
§ 90-113.45. Enjoining illegal practices.
(a) The Board may, if it finds that any person is violating any of the provisions of this Article or of the rules adopted pursuant to it, apply in its own name to the superior court for a temporary or permanent restraining order or injunction to restrain that person from continuing these illegal practices. The court may grant injunctive relief regardless of whether criminal prosecution or other action has been or may be instituted as a result of the violation. In the court's consideration of the issue of whether to grant or continue an injunction sought by the Board, a showing of conduct in violation of the terms of this Article shall be sufficient to meet any requirement of general North Carolina injunction law for irreparable damage.
(b) The venue for actions brought under this section is the superior court of any county in which the illegal acts are alleged to have been committed or in the county where the defendant resides. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1.)
§ 90-113.46. Application of requirements of Article.
All persons credentialed by the North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board, Inc., as of July 1, 1994, shall be credentialed by the Board pursuant to this Article. All these persons are subject to all the other requirements of this Article and of the rules adopted pursuant to it. (1993 (Reg. Sess., 1994), c. 685, s. 1; 1997-492, s. 15; 2005-431, s. 1; 2019-240, s. 8(o).)
§ 90-113.46A. Criminal history record checks of applicants for registration, certification, or licensure.
(a) All applicants for registration, certification, or licensure shall consent to a criminal history record check. Refusal to consent to a criminal history record check may constitute grounds for the Board to deny registration, certification, or licensure to an applicant. The Board shall ensure that the State and national criminal history of an applicant is checked. The Board shall be responsible for providing to the State Bureau of Investigation the fingerprints of the applicant to be checked, a form signed by the applicant consenting to the criminal history record check and the use of fingerprints and other identifying information required by the State or National Repositories, the fee required by the State Bureau of Investigation for providing this service, and any additional information required by the State Bureau of Investigation. The Board shall keep all information obtained pursuant to this section confidential.
(b) If an applicant's criminal history record check reveals one or more convictions as defined in G.S. 90-113.31A(14), the conviction shall not automatically bar issuance of a credential by the Board to the applicant. The Board shall consider all of the following factors regarding the conviction:
(1) The level of seriousness of the crime.
(2) The date of the crime.
(3) The age of the person at the time of the conviction.
(4) The circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime, if known.
(5) The nexus between the criminal conduct of the person and the job duties of the position to be filled.
(6) The person's prison, jail, probation, parole, rehabilitation, and employment records since the date the crime was committed.
(7) The subsequent commission by the person of a crime as defined in G.S. 90-113.31A(14).
If, after reviewing the factors, the Board determines that the grounds set forth in G.S. 90-113.44 exist, the Board may deny registration, certification, or licensure of the applicant. The Board may disclose to the applicant information contained in the criminal history record check that is relevant to the denial. The Board shall not provide a copy of the criminal history record check to the applicant. The applicant shall have the right to appear before the Board to appeal the Board's decision. However, an appearance before the full Board shall constitute an exhaustion of administrative remedies in accordance with Chapter 150B of the General Statutes.
(c) Limited Immunity. - The Board, its officers and employees, acting in good faith and in compliance with this section, shall be immune from civil liability for denying registration, certification, or licensure to an applicant based on information provided in the applicant's criminal history record check. (2005-431, s. 1; 2014-100, s. 17.1(o); 2023-134, s. 19F.4(zz).)
§ 90-113.47. Repealed by Session Laws 1999-199, s. 3.1.
§ 90-113.48. Reserved for future codification purposes.
§ 90-113.49. Reserved for future codification purposes.