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Texas AG Says Social Workers Can't Be Prohibited From Refusing To See Clients

Courtesy: Chuck Smith / Red River Radio News

TX SOCIAL WORKERS -  Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton says the state board that regulates social workers can't prohibit them from refusing to see clients based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability status. Paxton issued the non-binding legal opinion Monday on the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. Will Francis heads the Texas Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. He says he's concerned  Paxton's stance will discourage LGBTQ people and people with disabilities from seeking services.  

". . . we want people getting the services they need. And what he's essentially done is frighten people away from that," Will Francis, Texas Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers

"And at time when we know that mental health needs are greater than ever based on COVID, we want people getting the services they need. And what he's essentially done is frighten people away from that,"  Francis explained.  

While the attorney general's opinions do not carry the weight of law, they can be influential for state agencies. 

Chuck Smith brings more than 30 years' broadcast and media experience to Red River Radio. He began his career as a radio news reporter and transitioned to television journalism and newsmagazine production. Chuck studied mass communications at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia and motion picture / television production at the University of California at Los Angeles. He has also taught writing for television at York Technical College in Rock Hill, South Carolina and video / film production at Centenary College of Louisiana, Shreveport.