In 2022, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) launched Access MFT, a strategic portability initiative designed to simplify licensure mobility for the marriage and family therapist (MFT) profession.
After receiving unanimous approval in both the Kentucky House of Representatives and Senate, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 459 (HB 459) into law on April 10, 2026, making Kentucky the fourteenth state to pass Access MFTs legislation and the first state to do so in 2026. The new law expands licensure opportunities for MFT applicants who are licensed in another state and wish to practice in Kentucky. The law will take effect on July 15, 2026.
HB 459 introduces three new sections in the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS). Section Two (2) establishes a streamlined pathway for out-of-state MFTs seeking Kentucky licensure. Specifically, it adds a provision to KRS Chapter 335, allowing the Kentucky Board of Licensure of Marriage and Family Therapists (Board) to grant licensure to MFT applicants who:
- Hold an active license from another state;
- Are in good standing with the certifying or licensing boards of that state;
- Are of good moral character;
- Have not been subject to serious disciplinary action;
- Have passed a written examination prescribed by the Board in KRS 335.330(3); and
- Have paid the application fee.
Historically, the Board has required MFT applicants to pass the Marriage and Family Therapy National Examination administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
Importantly, HB 459 exempts qualifying MFT applicants from:
- The education requirement under KRS 335.330(1) and
- The requirement of at least two hundred (200) hours of clinical supervision experience required by KRS 335.330(2).
Prior to HB 459, MFT applicants were required to complete a master’s or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy, or a related field with equivalent coursework, form a regionally accredited institution before obtaining Kentucky licensure. Applicants were also required to complete at least 200 hours of clinical supervision under an AAMFT-approved supervisor, and AAMFT supervisor candidate, or a licensed Kentucky MTF.
By reducing administrative barriers for licensed MFT professionals relocating to or practicing in Kentucky, Strause Law Group anticipates that HB 459 will improve access to MFT services throughout the Commonwealth. The legislation reflects a broader national movement toward professional licensure portability. We believe it may help address workforce shortages while expanding access to care for Kentucky families and communities.
If you have questions about how HB 459 may affect MFT licensure, Strause Law Group is happy to assist in any way.
