(1) The purpose of this chapter is to: Declare the practice of social work a professional practice affecting the public health, safety, and welfare;
(2) Subject the practice of social work to effective regulation and control to promote, preserve, and protect the public interest; and
(3) Declare a matter of public interest and concern that the practice of social work, as defined in this chapter, merit and receive the confidence of the public and that only qualified persons be permitted to engage in the practice of social work in the State of Arkansas.
(4) This chapter shall be liberally construed to carry out these objectives and purposes.