§ 17-97-311 — Denial, suspension, revocation, or other penalty - Proceedings

(a) (1) (A) The Arkansas Psychology Board may investigate or cause to be investigated any allegation or evidence that appears to show that a person: (i) Is practicing psychology without a license; or (ii) Licensed to practice in Arkansas and anyone under his or her supervision is or may be in violation of this chapter or of any of the rules adopted by the board. (B) The board shall adopt rules to ensure that: (i) Any individual selected by the board to conduct an investigation does not have a conflict of interest that would disqualify the individual from being an impartial investigator in the matter being investigated; and (ii) Any investigation of a respondent in an investigated matter involves the input of an advisor who possesses qualification or experience, or both, substantially comparable to or greater than that of the investigated respondent. (2) The board may not recommend suspension, revocation, or any other penalty described in § 17-97-310 affecting a certificate or license or refuse to issue or to renew any certificate for any cause listed in this chapter unless the person accused has been given at least twenty (20) days' notice in writing by registered mail, with return receipt demanded, of the charges against the person and an opportunity for a public hearing by the board. (3) The written notice shall be mailed to the person's last known address, but the nonappearance of the person shall not prevent such a hearing. (b) At the hearing the board may administer an oath and procure by its subpoenas the attendance of witnesses and the production of relevant books and papers. (c) Any action of or ruling or order made or entered by the board declining to issue a certificate, declining to recommend licensure, or recommending suspension, revocation, or other penalty described in § 17-97-310 that affects a certificate or license shall be subject to review by the courts of this state in the same manner and subject to the same powers and conditions that are now provided by law in regard to rulings, orders, and findings of other quasi-judicial bodies in Arkansas where not otherwise specifically provided.

Legislative History

Amended by Act 2019, No. 315,§ 1639, eff. 7/24/2019. Acts 1955, No. 129, §§ 11, 14; A.S.A. 1947, §§ 72-1511, 72-1514; Acts 2001, No. 1502, § 7; 2003, No. 1482, § 17.