**If you are a Texas CCLS please sign the OTHER petition: TEXAS CERTIFIED CHILD LIFE SPECIALISTS LICENSURE *UPDATE-The Texas CCLS Licensure Task Force is re-strategizing and preparing for the 90th legislative session in 2027. Our efforts start now and we need your support. We will make it to the finish line--with your help! As a Texas Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), I am deeply invested in improving the emotional well-being and quality of care for children and families experiencing medical challenges. Texas currently has only 645 CCLSs and due to low salaries and lack of respect, these professionals are leaving the field at an alarming rate. This has increased the risk of employers hiring unqualified individuals to fill open positions. Families that benefit from support provided by CCLSs in Texas pediatric hospitals, adult hospitals, and communities may be at risk of receiving support from unqualified individuals. Without oversight from a licensing board, our duty to provide expert, compassionate support during difficult medical situations is compromised.

Licensure of CCLSs will help ensure that professionals meet high standards of education and practice under the monitoring of a licensing board. This process will better protect and serve Texas children and families, echoing the high training standards and pivotal role that CCLSs play in the medical field. Achieving licensure could also pave the way for billing and reimbursement.

It is our moral obligation to guarantee the safety of children and families. Licensing Texas Certified Child Life Specialists will allow us to enhance the quality of professional support during medical crises. We need families, CCLSs from outside of Texas, and anyone who understands the value of child life services, to raise their voices and advocate for the licensure of these essential specialists, ensuring the right care for the children and families of Texas. Please sign this petition to support better oversight, protection for our children and families, and the Licensure of Texas Certified Child Life Specialists.