S 256
An Act relative to the occupational therapist interstate licensure compact
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- Passed House
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Bill overview
This bill seeks to establish an interstate licensure compact for occupational therapists. Currently, occupational therapists licensed in one state must obtain a separate license to practice in another state, which can create barriers to care and limit patient access. The compact would allow therapists licensed in participating states to practice in other compact states without needing to meet each state’s individual requirements. This streamlined process aims to improve access to occupational therapy services across state lines.
Key provisions
- Establishes an interstate licensure compact for occupational therapists.
- Allows therapists licensed in one compact state to practice in other participating states.
- Sets forth requirements for participating states to meet regarding qualifications and standards.
- Defines processes for recognizing and transferring licenses between states.
- Addresses reciprocity agreements between states.
- Specifies procedures for disciplinary actions and reciprocal enforcement.
- Includes provisions for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the compact’s effectiveness.
Who is affected
- Occupational Therapists
- Patients seeking occupational therapy services
- State licensing boards for occupational therapy
Notable changes
- Eliminates the need for occupational therapists to obtain separate licenses in each state where they wish to practice.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joan B. Lovely
Cosponsors
James B. Eldridge
Joan B. Lovely
Sal N. DiDomenico
Thomas M. Stanley
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Bill S.256 194th (Current)
An Act relative to the occupational therapist interstate licensure compact
By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 256) of Joan B. Lovely for legislation relative to the occupational therapist interstate licensure compact. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Joan B. Lovely
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.256
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 8/28/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/08/2025 from 10:00 AM-1:00 PM in A-2 |
| 11/13/2025 | Senate | Accompanied a new draft, see S2672 |
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