AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine is considering joining a multi-state compact that allows licensed counselors to practice in other states.

Supporters of the proposal said it would improve access to counseling and therapy in Maine. The state would join the Counseling Compact, which allows counselors licensed at the clinical level and rising in member states to practice in other states without needing multiple licenses.

The proposal is the subject of a bill before the Maine Legislature presented by Democratic Rep. Jay McCreight of Harpswell. McCreight, who was a practicing counselor before becoming a lawmaker, said she knows “how important this work is and how important it is that we have the needed, highly qualified workforce to do it.”

A legislative committee is expected to hold a work session on the proposal in the coming weeks.