Texas social workers can now turn away LGBTQ, disabled clients

[ZiprHead]

A state regulatory board removed the discrimination protections following a recommendation from Gov. Greg Abbott.

Texas social workers can now turn away LGBTQ clients and those with a disability.

The state Board of Social Work Examiners voted unanimously to change a section of its code of conduct last week following a recommendation from Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, to remove protections for sexual orientation, gender identity and disability. Abbott’s office said the change was suggested because the board’s nondiscrimination clause went beyond the state’s policy on social work, according to The Associated Press.

“It’s not surprising that a board would align its rules with statutes passed by the Legislature,” Renae Eze, a spokeswoman for Abbott’s office, said.

Officials and the state Board of Social Work Examiners is now facing backlash for the decision, with some advocacy and professional organizations saying it could put already vulnerable disabled and LGBTQ people at a greater risk.

After the policy change became public, seven advocacy groups released a joint statement condemning the move.

 

[Politesse]

I hope no one takes them up on it! What an atrocious, blatant violation of professional ethical principles.

Also, good luck getting your thus-degraded certification recognized by any other states as a valid qualification, morons.

 

[krypton iodine sulfur]

I was curious if there was any non-discrimination law at a broader level which might offer protections on the basis of sexual orientation and/ or gender identity. That doesn't seem to be the case at the state level. I am not so certain with regard to disabilities. Even if it's not a protected class here, would it not be protected by other legislation (e.g. ADA)? I don't fully understand how things apply at various levels in the US, generally, or Texas, specifically.

 

[Jimmy Higgins]

FREEDOM!!!

 

[Rhea]

Turn away social work clients. I do indeed hope they can’t take their credential on the road. And I hope they change this soon for the sake of their residents.