The bill CS/HB 909 establishes the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, designed to enhance the interstate practice of occupational therapy and improve public access to these services. It sets forth requirements for member states, including the necessity to license occupational therapists and assistants, participate in a data system, and have mechanisms for investigating complaints. The compact allows occupational therapists and therapy assistants to practice across state lines, provided they hold a valid home state license, have no encumbrances on their licenses, and complete a criminal background check. The bill also creates the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission to oversee the compact's implementation, manage licensure and disciplinary information exchange, and ensure compliance among member states.

Additionally, the bill amends existing Florida Statutes to strengthen the regulation of occupational therapy practitioners under the compact. It includes provisions for impaired practitioners to withdraw from practice unless authorized by a member state and mandates the appointment of a delegate to the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission. The bill introduces new grounds for disciplinary action against occupational therapists and assistants, including potential adverse actions against their compact privileges for regulatory violations. It also clarifies the status of individuals involved with the commission as agents of the state, providing them with certain protections. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 909 Filed: 456.073, 456.076
H 909 c1: 456.073, 456.076