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.