Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 1042

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Clarifying that the physical therapist scope of practice does not include dry needling.

Sponsors: Representatives Cody, Gregerson, Van De Wege and Moeller.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Prohibits physical therapists from performing dry needling.

Hearing Date: 1/27/15

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Licensed physical therapists may perform a variety of services, including:

The practice of dry needling is nether specifically allowed nor prohibited in statutes and rules relating to the scope of practice for physical therapists.

Summary of Bill:

Dry needling is not included in the term "physical therapy" for purposes of licensing and regulating physical therapists. "Dry needling" is defined as the insertion of a solid filament needle through the skin for a therapeutic effect and includes intramuscular stimulation, intramuscular manual therapy, trigger point dry needling, and intramuscular needling.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.