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<chapter num="16" heading="Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee" title_num="10" subtitle_num="58">
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope.">
    <text>This chapter governs the practice of behavior analysis.</text>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Terms Defined.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>“Asynchronous” means not occurring in real time.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>“Board” means the Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>“Board-certified assistant behavior analyst” means an individual who:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Is credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or a successor organization; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Practices under the supervision of a licensed behavior analyst in accordance with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's description of the role and functions of a board-certified assistant behavior analyst and supervision requirements.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>“Board-certified behavior analyst” means an individual credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or a successor organization.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>“Committee” means the Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>“In-person” means within the physical presence of the individual receiving behavior analyst services or the individual’s caregiver.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>“License” means a license issued by the Board to practice behavior analysis.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>“Licensed behavior analyst” means a behavior analyst licensed by the Board to practice behavior analysis.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>“Paraprofessional” means an individual who:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Practices behavior analysis under the supervision of a licensed behavior analyst in accordance with requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Is not a board-certified assistant behavior analyst; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>May be a registered behavior technician.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>Practice Behavior Analysis.</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>“Practice behavior analysis” means to design, implement, and evaluate systematic instructional and environmental modifications to produce socially significant improvements in human behavior.</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>“Practice behavior analysis” includes:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>The empirical identification of functional relations between behavior and environmental factors, also known as functional assessment and analysis; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Interventions based on scientific research and the direct observation and measurement of behavior and environment.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>“Practice behavior analysis” does not include:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Psychological testing;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Diagnosis of a mental or physical disorder;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Neuropsychology;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Psychotherapy;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(v)">
            <text>Cognitive therapy;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(vi)">
            <text>Sex therapy;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(vii)">
            <text>Psychoanalysis or hypnotherapy; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(viii)">
            <text>Counseling.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(11)">
        <text>“Registered behavior technician” means an individual who:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Is credentialed as a registered behavior technician by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or a successor organization; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Practices behavior analysis under the close, ongoing supervision of a licensed behavior analyst in accordance with requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(12)">
        <text>“Supervisee” means an individual who implements behavior analytic assessment or intervention procedures under the supervision of a licensed behavior analyst. Supervisees include, but are not limited to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Paraprofessionals;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Matriculated undergraduate or graduate students engaging in behavior analytic activities to fulfill requirements for coursework, practica, internships, theses, dissertations, graduate assistantships, or independent study; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Non-students who are completing the supervised experiential training eligibility requirement for certification by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(13)">
        <text>“Supervision” means:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The ongoing monitoring of implementation quality, the frequency of which should be based on the supervisee’s</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Training;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Competence; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Experience;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The nature of the assessment or intervention procedures delegated to the supervisee; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Meeting the minimum supervision requirements of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(14)">
        <text>“Supervisor” means a licensed behavior analyst who:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Provides supervision to a supervisee; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Meets the minimum supervision requirements of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(15)">
        <text>“Synchronous” means occurring in real time.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(16)">
        <text>“Telehealth” has the meaning stated in Health Occupations Article, §1-1001, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(17)">
        <text>“Telehealth practitioner” means an individual authorized to provide telehealth services in Maryland pursuant to Health Occupations Article, Title 17, Subtitle 6A, Annotated Code of Maryland, who performs telehealth services within their respective scope of practice.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>The Board shall appoint members of the committee as follows:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>On or before December 31, 2014, four behavior analysts who:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Are credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board as board-certified behavior analysts or designated as board-certified behavior analysts-doctoral; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Have a minimum of 5 years of clinical experience; and</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>On or after January 1, 2015, four licensed behavior analysts who:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Are credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Have a minimum of 5 years of clinical experience; and</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>One consumer member who:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Is a member of the general public;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Is receiving or has received applied behavior analysis services, or has a child who is receiving or has received applied behavior analysis services; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>May not:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Be or ever have been a behavior analyst or in training to become a behavior analyst;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Have a household member who is a behavior analyst or in training to become a behavior analyst;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Participate or ever have participated in a commercial or professional field related to behavior analysis;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Have a household member who participates in a commercial or professional field related to behavior analysis; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(v)">
            <text>Have had within 2 years before appointment a substantial financial interest in a person regulated by the Board.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Terms.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The term of a member is 4 years.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The terms of members are staggered.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>An individual may be reappointed for a second 4-year term, but the individual may not serve more than two consecutive 4-year terms.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Vacancy.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If a vacancy occurs, the Board shall appoint a new member to serve.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The successor member shall only serve for the remainder of the term, unless reappointed.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Officers. From among its members, the Committee shall elect a Chair and a Vice Chair, annually.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Quorum.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A majority of the members then serving on the Committee is a quorum.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Business may not be conducted at a Committee meeting unless there is a quorum.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>The Committee shall:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Develop and make recommendations to the Board in the following areas:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Regulations governing the practice of behavior analysis;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Code of ethics requirements for the practice of behavior analysis;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Requirements for licensure as a behavior analyst, including:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Criteria for educational and clinical training of licensed behavior analysts; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Criteria for a professional competency examination and testing of applicants for licensure to practice behavior analysis; and</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Continuing education requirements for license renewal;</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Investigate allegations of violations of this chapter and these regulations and make recommendations to the Board regarding disposition of such allegations;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Report to the Board as required; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Keep a record of its proceedings.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Qualifications.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>To qualify for licensure as a licensed behavior analyst, an individual shall:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Be of good moral character;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Be at least 18 years of age;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Have a current certification as a board-certified behavior analyst or board-certified behavior analyst - doctoral verified by the Board with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or its successor organization;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Have received a master’s degree or higher from a behavior analysis educational course sequence that is approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or a successor organization; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Demonstrate oral and written competency in English as required by the Board.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The Board shall waive the educational requirements in §A(4) of this regulation if an individual was certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board on or before December 31, 2014 and is in good standing.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Application Procedure.">
    <text>To apply for a license, an individual shall submit:</text>
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A completed application form to the Board on a form that the Board requires and that is provided by the Committee;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>To a criminal history records check in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §17–501.1, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>The following documentation:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>An official transcript, demonstrating that the applicant has met the minimum degree requirement of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, or its successor, at the time of certification; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A copy of the applicant’s Behavior Analyst Certification Board certificate, demonstrating that the applicant is currently certified in good standing as a board-certified behavior analyst by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, or its successor.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Renewal.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>An individual who has been licensed by the Board as a behavior analyst may renew the license every 2 years on the date specified by the Board by:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Completing a renewal application on a form supplied by the Board;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Submitting evidence of a current certification with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Having current certification verified with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Submitting to a criminal history records check in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §17–501.1, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Submitting satisfactory evidence of compliance with any continuing education requirements established by the Board under Health Occupations Article, §17–6A–15(d), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A licensed behavior analyst who has not renewed his or her license or whose license has not been placed on inactive status by the Board may not practice behavior analysis.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Continuing Education.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A licensed behavior analyst shall complete continuing education units in accordance with the requirements of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or its successor organization.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A licensed behavior analyst shall document completion of continuing education requirements and retain this documentation for the succeeding 4 years for possible inspection by the Board.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Inactive Status.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>The Board shall place a license on inactive status if the licensed behavior analyst submits to the Board a completed application on a form required by the Board and provided by the Committee.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A licensed behavior analyst whose license is inactive may not practice behavior analysis until the license has been reactivated in accordance with Regulation .09 of this chapter.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>A licensed behavior analyst whose license is inactive shall renew the inactive status every year before it expires by completing the form required by the Board and provided by the Committee.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Reactivation.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A license on inactive status may be reactivated by the Board by:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Complying with the requirements for renewal that exist at the time the license changes from inactive to active status;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Meeting any continuing education requirements established by the Board; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Verifying active and current certification with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The Board may reject an application for reactivation if the licensed behavior analyst is found to have violated any provision of Health Occupations Article, Title 17, Subtitle 6A, Annotated Code of Maryland or this chapter.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Reinstatement.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>The Board shall reinstate the license of a behavior analyst who has not been put on inactive status and who has failed to renew the license for any reason if the behavior analyst:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Meets the requirements set forth in Regulation .09 of this chapter; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Applies to the Board for reinstatement of the license within 5 years after the license expires.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The Board may not reinstate the license of a behavior analyst who fails to apply for reinstatement of the license within 5 years after the license expires.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Notwithstanding the provisions of §B of this regulation, a behavior analyst may become licensed by meeting the current requirements for obtaining a new license under this chapter.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Practice Responsibilities.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Except where there is a consultative agreement, the licensed behavior analyst is ultimately responsible for the design and implementation of behavior analytic services that are in the best interest of the client, under the licensed behavior analyst’s supervision.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Behavior analysis involves the design, implementation, and evaluation of systematic instructional and environmental modifications to produce socially significant improvements in human behavior.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>The responsibilities of a licensed behavior analyst are as follows:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Objective measurement and description of specific levels of client behavior at baseline and throughout treatment;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>An emphasis on understanding the current function or functions and future importance of behaviors targeted for treatment;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Efforts to design, establish, and manage treatment environments in order to minimize problem behaviors and maximize progress on treatment targets;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Use of a carefully constructed, individualized, and detailed behavior analytic treatment plan that:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Utilizes reinforcement and other scientifically validated behavior analytic procedures as opposed to procedures that lack scientific evidence of effectiveness;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Is designed to establish small units of behavior and build toward larger, clinically important changes in behavior that result in improved client health and functioning;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Includes ongoing, frequent, direct observation and objective measurement of treatment targets and analysis of the resulting data in order to adjust treatment procedures to maximize client progress; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Is implemented repeatedly, frequently, and consistently across multiple environments by the licensed behavior analysts’ supervisees, and the client’s caregivers who are trained and supervised by the licensed behavior analyst to implement specified components of the treatment plan; and</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Determination and supervision of tasks to be performed by a supervisee based on the supervisee’s training, experience, and competence, in accordance with the responsibilities for supervision described in Regulation .13 of this chapter.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Delivery of Service Model.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>The provision of behavior analytic services may take one of three forms:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A tiered-service delivery model;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A direct service model; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>A consultative model.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Unless a consultation agreement described in §E of this regulation exists, a licensed behavior analyst shall be ultimately responsible for the design and implementation of behavior analytic services that are in the best interest of the client, under the licensed behavior analyst’s supervision.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Tiered Service Delivery Model.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A licensed behavior analyst may utilize the services of supervisees to deliver behavior analysis services to clients, provided the licensed behavior analyst does so in accordance with this regulation and requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Under a tiered delivery service model:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>A licensed behavior analyst and a supervisee shall comply with the supervision responsibilities specified in Regulation .13 of this chapter and requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>A licensed behavior analyst shall be responsible for all aspects of clinical direction, supervision, and case management, including activities of supervisees;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>A supervisee shall deliver assessment and treatment protocols as directed by and under the close and ongoing supervision of a licensed behavior analyst; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>The licensed behavior analyst may delegate responsibilities to supervisees only if, in the judgment of the licensed behavior analyst:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>The task or procedures can be properly and safely performed by the supervisee;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Delegation does not jeopardize the health or safety of the client; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>The delegation is in accordance with the current supervision requirements of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or successor organization.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Direct Delivery Service Model. Under a direct service delivery model, a licensed behavior analyst shall be responsible for all aspects of case management and implementation of assessment and treatment protocols.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Consultation Agreement. Under a consultation agreement, a licensed behavior analyst:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Shall enter into a contract with the individual or entity for whom the licensed behavior analyst will be consulting that defines:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The frequency of the consultation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The location of the consultation; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The expectations of both parties to the contract;</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Shall act principally in the best interest of the individual or entity for which the licensed behavior analyst will be consulting, with appropriate consent, subject to other relevant considerations, including applicable law and contractual obligations;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>When indicated and professionally appropriate, shall cooperate with other professionals in a manner that is consistent with the philosophical assumptions and principles of behavior analysis, to effectively and appropriately serve their clients; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>May be held responsible for the treatment of a client for whom a behavior analytic treatment plan was recommended.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Telehealth.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Licensure. Subject to the provisions of Health Occupations Article, Title 17, Subtitle 6A, Annotated Code of Maryland, in order to practice telehealth a telehealth practitioner shall be licensed in Maryland when providing telehealth services to a client located in the State.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Standards of Practice.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Before providing telehealth services, a telehealth practitioner shall develop and follow a procedure to:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Verify the identification of the client through the use of:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>A government-issued photograph identification;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>An insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare card; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Documentation of the client’s date of birth and home address;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>For an initial client-telehealth practitioner encounter, disclose the telehealth practitioner’s:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Name;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Maryland license number; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Contact information;</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Obtain oral or written informed consent from a client or a client’s parent or guardian if State law requires the consent of a parent or guardian, including informing clients of potential risks and benefits of telehealth services to be performed;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Securely collect and transmit a client’s clinical data and self-reported medical history, as necessary, and prevent access to data by unauthorized persons through encryption or other means;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Notify clients in the event of a data breach;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Ensure that the telehealth practitioner provides a secure and private communication modality and complies with federal and state privacy laws; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>Establish safety protocols to be used in the case of an emergency, including contact information for emergency services at the client’s location.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Except when providing asynchronous telehealth services, a telehealth practitioner shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Obtain or confirm an alternative method of contacting the client in case of a technological failure;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Confirm whether the client is in Maryland and identify the client’s specific location; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Identify all individuals present at each location and confirm they are permitted to hear the client’s health information.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>A telehealth practitioner shall be held to the same standards of practice and documentation as those applicable for in-person sessions.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Client Evaluation.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A telehealth practitioner shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Perform a synchronous or asynchronous client evaluation that is appropriate for the client and the condition with which the client presents before providing services through telehealth; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>If clinically appropriate for the client, provide or refer a client to:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>In-person treatment; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Another type of telehealth service.</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A telehealth practitioner may not treat a client based solely on an online questionnaire.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Telehealth Practitioner Discipline.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The Board shall use the same standards in evaluating and investigating a complaint and disciplining a telehealth practitioner who practices telehealth as it would use for a telehealth practitioner who does not use telehealth technology.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The failure of a telehealth practitioner to comply with this chapter shall constitute unprofessional conduct and may be subject to disciplinary action by the Board.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Supervision.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A licensee shall:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Comply with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board requirements regarding supervision of supervisees; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Use appropriate clinical judgment in determining when and how often to conduct supervision.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Supervision Process.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The supervision shall occur for the duration of clinical service provision (e.g., beginning with assessment and through case closure).</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Supervision activities may involve direct contact with the client or activities related to case management, at the discretion of the licensed behavior analyst providing the supervision and as in accordance with the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>The licensed behavior analyst shall be ultimately responsible and accountable for the design and implementation of behavior analytic services that are in the best interest of the client and outcomes under her or his clinical supervision.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Unless a consultation agreement exists, a licensed behavior analyst shall be ultimately responsible for the design and implementation of behavior analytic services that are in the best interest of the client, under the licensed behavior analyst’s supervision.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Delegation shall only be made if, in the judgment of the licensed behavior analyst:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The task or procedures can be properly and safely performed by an appropriately trained supervisee; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The delegation does not jeopardize the health or safety of the client.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Supervision activities by the licensed behavior analyst may include, but not be limited to:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Direct training of supervisees in implementation of behavior analytic assessment or intervention procedures;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Conducting real-time, live, and person-to-person observation of the supervisee implementing behavior analytic assessment and intervention procedures with clients in natural environments or training others to implement them, with feedback from the supervisor;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Conducting one-to-one real-time, live, and person-to-person interactions between supervisor and supervisee to review and discuss:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Assessment and treatment plans and procedures;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Client assessment and progress data and reports;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Published research;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Ethical and professional standards and guidelines;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Professional development needs and opportunities; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Relevant laws, regulations, and policies; or</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Conducting real-time, live, and person-to-person interactions between a supervisor and a group of supervisees to review and discuss:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Assessment and treatment plans and procedures;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Client assessment and progress data and reports;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Published research;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Ethical and professional standards and guidelines;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Professional development needs and opportunities; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>Relevant laws, regulations, and policies.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>The frequency and nature of supervision interactions are determined by the individualized assessment or treatment plans of the clients served by the licensed behavior analyst and the supervisees.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Code of Ethics.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A licensed behavior analyst shall comply with the current professional disciplinary and ethical code established by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board or its successor organization.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Familiarity with revisions to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s professional disciplinary and ethical code is the responsibility of the licensed behavior analyst.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Prohibited Conduct.">
    <text>Subject to the hearing provisions of Health Occupations Article, §17–6A–21, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Board may deny a license to any applicant, reprimand any licensed behavior analyst, place any licensed behavior analyst on probation, or suspend or revoke a license if the applicant or licensed behavior analyst:</text>
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Fraudulently or deceptively obtains or attempts to obtain a license for the applicant or licensed behavior analyst or for another;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Fraudulently or deceptively uses a license;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Is convicted of or pleads guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude, whether or not any appeal or other proceeding is pending to have the conviction or plea set aside;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Aids or abets an unauthorized person in practicing behavior analysis or representing oneself to be a behavior analyst;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Practices behavior analysis fraudulently or deceitfully;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Violates the code of ethics adopted by the Board under Health Occupations Article, §17–6A–03, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Willfully fails to file or record any report as required under law, willfully impedes or obstructs the filing or recording of the report, or induces another to fail to file or record the report;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="H.">
      <text>Submits a false statement to collect a fee;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="I.">
      <text>Willfully makes or files a false report or record in the practice of behavior analysis;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="J.">
      <text>Is disciplined by a licensing or disciplinary authority of any state or country or convicted or disciplined by a court of any state or country or disciplined by any branch of the United States uniformed services or the United States Veterans Administration for an act that would be grounds for disciplinary action under the Board’s disciplinary statutes;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="K.">
      <text>Violates any provision of:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Health Occupations Article, Title 17, Subtitle 6A, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>This chapter;</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="L.">
      <text>Uses or promotes or causes the use of any misleading, deceiving, or untruthful advertising matter, promotional literature, or testimonial;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="M.">
      <text>Is professionally, physically, or mentally incompetent;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="N.">
      <text>Promotes the sale of devices, appliances, or goods to a patient so as to exploit the patient for financial gain;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="O.">
      <text>Behaves immorally in the practice of behavior analysis;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="P.">
      <text>Commits an act of unprofessional conduct in the practice of behavior analysis;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="Q.">
      <text>Refuses, withholds from, denies, or discriminates against an individual with regard to the provision of professional services for which the licensed behavior analyst is licensed and qualified to render because the individual is HIV positive;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="R.">
      <text>Fails to cooperate with a lawful investigation conducted by the Board;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="S.">
      <text>Commits an act that is inconsistent with generally accepted professional standards in the practice of behavior analysis;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="T.">
      <text>Fails to submit to a criminal history records check in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §17–501.1, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="U.">
      <text>Habitually is intoxicated;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="V.">
      <text>Provides professional services while under the influence of alcohol or while using any narcotic or controlled dangerous substance, as defined in Criminal Law Article, §5–101, Annotated Code of Maryland, or other drug that is in excess of therapeutic amounts or without valid medical indication; or</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="W.">
      <text>Knowingly fails to report suspected child abuse in violation of Family Law Article, §5–704, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Investigations, Hearings, and Appeals.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Complaints alleging prohibited conduct shall be referred to the Committee to be investigated and reported to the Board according to the Board’s procedures.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A hearing on charges issued under Regulation .15 of this chapter or Health Occupations Article, §17–6A–19, Annotated Code of Maryland, shall be held in accordance with the hearing provisions of Health Occupations Article, §§17–511 and 17–6A–21, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>The Committee shall follow the hearing procedures in accordance with the hearing provisions of Health Occupations Article, §§17–511 and 17–6A–21, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Appeals from a final Board decision shall be taken in accordance with Health Occupations Article, §17–6A–22, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Fines and Penalties.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>An individual who violates any provision of Health Occupations Article, Title 17, Subtitle 6A, Annotated Code of Maryland, is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $10,000, or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year, or both.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The Board may impose a civil fine of not more than $50,000 on an individual who violates any provision of Health Occupations Article, §17–6A–27, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>The Board shall deposit a penalty collected under §B of this regulation into the State General Fund.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".19" heading="Sanctioning Guidelines.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>If, after a hearing or an opportunity for a hearing under Health Occupations Article, §17–511, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Board finds that there are grounds for discipline under Health Occupations Article, §17–6A–19, Annotated Code of Maryland, the Board may place any licensee or certificate holder on probation, reprimand any licensee or certificate holder, or suspend or revoke a license or certificate.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>In addition to placing the licensee or certificate holder on probation, reprimanding the licensee or certificate holder, or suspending or revoking the license or certificate, the Board may impose a penalty as set forth in this regulation.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>General Application of Sanctioning Guidelines. Except as provided in §J of this regulation, for violations of the Maryland Behavior Analysts Act listed in the sanctioning guidelines, the Board shall impose a sanction not less severe than the minimum listed in the sanctioning guidelines or more severe than the maximum listed in the guidelines for each offense.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Ranking of Sanctions.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>For the purposes of this regulation, the severity of sanctions is ranked as follows, from the least severe to the most severe:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Reprimand;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Probation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Suspension; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Revocation.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A stayed suspension in which the stay is conditioned on the completion of certain requirements is ranked as probation.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>A stayed suspension not meeting the criteria of §D(2) of this regulation is ranked as a reprimand.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>A penalty listed in the sanctioning guidelines may be imposed in addition to but not as a substitute for a sanction.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The addition of a penalty does not change the ranking of the severity of the sanction.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>The Board may impose more than one sanction provided that the most severe sanction neither exceeds the maximum nor is less than the minimum sanction permitted.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Any sanction may be accompanied by conditions reasonably related to the offense or to the rehabilitation of the offender. The inclusion of conditions does not change the ranking of the sanction.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>If a licensee is found in violation of more than one ground for discipline as enumerated in this regulation, the sanction with the highest severity ranking shall be used to determine which ground will be used in developing a sanction and the Board may impose concurrent sanctions based on other grounds violated.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="H.">
      <text>Notwithstanding the guidelines set forth in this regulation, in order to resolve a pending disciplinary action, the Board and licensee may agree to a surrender of license or to a consent order with terms, sanction, and penalty agreed to by the Board and the licensee.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="I.">
      <text>If the Board imposes a sanction that departs from the sanctioning guidelines set forth in this regulation, the Board shall state its reasons for doing so in its final decision and order.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="J.">
      <text>Aggravating and Mitigating Factors.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Depending on the facts and circumstances of each case, and to the extent that the facts and circumstances apply, the Board may consider mitigating and aggravating factors in determining whether the sanction in a particular case should fall outside the range of sanctions established by the guidelines.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Nothing in this regulation requires the Board or an Administrative Law Judge to make findings of fact with respect to any of these factors.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>A departure from the guidelines set forth in this chapter is not a ground for any hearing or appeal of a Board action.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The existence of one or more of these factors does not impose on the Board or an Administrative Law Judge any requirement to articulate its reasoning for not exercising its discretion to impose a sanction outside of the range of sanctions set forth in this chapter:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The absence of a prior disciplinary record;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The offender self-reported the violation to the Board;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The offender’s full and voluntary admissions of misconduct to the Board and cooperation during Board proceedings;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>The offender implemented remedial measures to correct or mitigate the harm arising from the misconduct;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>The offender made timely good-faith efforts to make restitution or to rectify the consequences of the misconduct;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>The offender has been rehabilitated or exhibits rehabilitative potential;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>The absence of premeditation to commit the misconduct;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(h)">
          <text>The absence of potential harm to patients or the public or other adverse impact; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(i)">
          <text>The offender’s conduct was an isolated incident and is not likely to recur.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Aggravating factors may include, but are not limited to, the following:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The offender has a previous criminal or administrative disciplinary history;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The violation was committed deliberately or with gross negligence or recklessness;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The violation had the potential for, or caused, serious patient or public harm;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>The violation was part of a pattern of detrimental conduct;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>The offender was motivated to perform the violation for financial gain;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(f)">
          <text>The vulnerability of the clients;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(g)">
          <text>The offender lacked insight into the wrongfulness of the conduct;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(h)">
          <text>The offender committed the violation under the guise of treatment;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(i)">
          <text>The offender attempted to hide the error or misconduct from patients or others;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(j)">
          <text>The offender did not cooperate with the investigation; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(k)">
          <text>Previous attempts at rehabilitation of the offender were unsuccessful.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="K.">
      <text>Payment of a Penalty.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A licensee shall pay to the Board a penalty imposed under this chapter as of the date the Board's order is issued, unless the Board's order specifies otherwise.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Filing an appeal under State Government Article, §10-222, Annotated Code of Maryland, or Health Occupations Article, §17-512, Annotated Code of Maryland, does not automatically stay payment of a penalty imposed by the Board under this regulation.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>If a licensee fails to pay, in whole or in part, a penalty imposed by the Board under this regulation, the Board may not restore, reinstate, or renew a license until the penalty has been paid in full.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>In its discretion, the Board may refer all cases of delinquent payment to the Central Collection Unit of the Department of Budget and Management to institute and maintain proceedings to ensure prompt payment.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The Board shall pay all monies collected under this regulation into the State's General Fund.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <annotations>
    <annotation type="Authority">Health Occupations Article, §1-606, 1-1001—1-1006, and Title 17, Subtitle 6A, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 22, 2017 (44:10 Md. R. 473)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .02B amended effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 799)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">New Regulation .13 adopted effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 799)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .13—18 recodified to be Regulations .14—.19 effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 799)</annotation>
  </annotations>
</chapter>