FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 6267

                              C 13 L 90

BYSenators Moore, Nelson, Wojahn, Amondson, Johnson, Smith, Matson, Bauer and Niemi

Changing provisions regulating occupational therapy.

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care

House Committe on Health Care

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

The practice of occupational therapy is defined as scientifically designed activity with individuals who are limited by physical injury or illness, psychosocial dysfunction, disability, or the aging process, in order to maximize independence, prevent disability, and maintain health.  The focus for occupational therapy services is to teach these individuals daily living skills, work activities, vocational activities, and play and leisure activities.

The state currently licenses occupational therapists under the Occupational Therapy Practice Act and the profession is governed by the Occupational Therapy Practice Board.  The practice act terminates under the sunset law in June 1990, unless the Legislature repeals the sunset termination.  The Legislative Budget Committee reviewed the need for licensure of the profession and voted to continue licensure.  It recommended that the standing health care committees in the Legislature study the need for mandatory continuing education.  Current statutes provide permissive language allowing the board to establish requirements for continuing competency as a prerequisite for licensure renewal.

SUMMARY:

The sunset termination date is repealed.  The Occupational Therapy Board is directed to establish requirements for license renewal which provide evidence of continued competency.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

     Senate   44    0

     House 96  0

EFFECTIVE:June 7, 1990