The state House passed a bill Thursday to encourage more social workers and massage therapists to practice in Georgia.

House Bill 839, sponsored by Republican Rep. Katie Dempsey, would create an interstate compact agreement between Georgia and other member states that would enable bachelor and masters level clinical social workers as well as licensed massage therapists to practice in those states without having to get individually licensed in each state.

Lawmakers approved the legislation in a 161-1 vote.

“This bill will improve public access to competent social work in our state,” said Dempsey, who represents Rome.

She also said the legislation would allow more people to work in Georgia and allow more Georgia workers to provide services to people in other states.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Athens-area voters will vote in a special election on Dec. 9 to fill a vacancy in House District 121. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Featured

Fans celebrate in the stands after Cape Verde defeated Eswatini in a World Cup qualifying soccer match at Estádio Nacional in Praia, Cape Verde, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, to clinch their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. (Cristiano Barbosa/AP)

Credit: AP