04/06/2026
The American Association of State Counseling Boards recognizes that the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Chiles v. Salazar introduces genuine complexity for how boards draft, interpret, and enforce professional practice standards. Despite this ruling, AASCB affirms that state counseling boards still retain their core public protection authority, and the professional consensus on client safety is unchanged by this ruling. While the decision arose from a challenge to Colorado law, it may have implications for how similar issues are considered in other jurisdictions. At the same time, state counseling boards continue to play an essential role in protecting the public through the regulation of licensure, professional standards, competence, and ethical practice—and this role has not diminished.
AASCB’s role is not to provide legal advice or clinical practice guidance, but to support member boards in responding to developments affecting counselor regulation. As boards consider the potential impact of Chiles within their jurisdictions, they may wish to work closely with legal counsel and remain attentive to how statutes, rules, and policies are drafted, interpreted, and enforced—particularly in areas where regulatory action may intersect with constitutional considerations. AASCB affirms that state counseling boards retain the authority to establish and enforce standards requiring licensees to deliver care consistent with professional, ethical, and evidence-based practice.
AASCB will continue to monitor Chiles and other relevant legal developments in the months ahead and will share information and resources with member boards as new information becomes available. Our goal is to serve as a steady partner to state counseling boards as they navigate emerging questions while upholding their core public protection mission. Member boards are encouraged to reach out to AASCB for support, shared resources, and collaborative conversations.
