Alright – so, it has been a minute since my last blog. I have been trying to do vlogs which is challenging because I am tech challenged. Ugh.
This morning, I testified in Health and Human Services committee in MN State Senate regarding a bill by Sen. Zaynab that states social workers cannot call themselves social workers unless they have the education and licensure. What now? No one should call themselves titles they have not earned.
Sadly, and so often, many do especially in counties and others. I have seen so many county staff and those contracted with counties give themselves fancy titles they do not have the education nor the required licensure. If you can believe some counties hire people who call themselves behavior analysts when they are not. Once in a blue while, Sen.. Zaynab will write a cohesive and helpful bill. This was one of them. If you remember, last legislative session, she became the puppet for Sen. Hoffman whose single job is to divide and conquer people.
Below is my testimony.
Minnesota Senate
Health & Human Services
Chair – Sen. Wiklund
March 4th, 2026
Re: SF 3682 Social Work Titles
Dear Madam chair and members, many thanks for the opportunity to be able to testify today. My name is Idil Abdull, I am an autism mom and retired advocate.
I testify regarding this bill and ask that no social worker without the education and licensure call themselves a social worker. As an autism mom, I have encountered many county staff who work in counties. When someone says they are a social worker, you assume they have earned that title and have the education and required licensure. Anything less is not accurate and should not be allowed.
In fact, many counties hire employees or external contractors without the proper education and experience to support individuals with autism including social workers, behavior therapists, etc.
I ask that the standards are higher for people who are hired to work with children like mine and other individuals with autism. As legislators, you are obligated to ensure that.
Thanks for your time.
Idil Abdull
The above words do not reflect any candidate, agency, and committee.
Idil Abdull – Autism Mom & Retired Advocate