Understanding the impact of state licensing on social work practice remains a critical concern for social work academics and professionals alike. Given the complex social problems of our times, social workers need to be prepared to intervene with the individual, in various structural dimensions, and to engage in policy debates at the core of human injustice and suffering. Currently, there is insufficient research on the impact of state licensing on the profession and on accredited social work education. The purpose of this article is to begin to address this by providing an overview of the current state of social work licensing across the United States and to analyze the implications of social work regulations as they relate to the future of macro social work practice and education.

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Social work practice spans all stages of life, takes place in a multitude of settings, and targets client systems at all levels-from individuals to groups We thank all of the members of Association of Macro Practice Social Work who have contributed time, energy, and expertise to the creation of this organization.

Implications for state licensing laws, are considered, along with how this impacts education, the work force, and professional identity.

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