This bill amends various sections of Louisiana's occupational therapy laws, specifically R.S. 37:3006, 3007, 3008, 3009, 3012, and 3013, to update the requirements and processes for licensure of occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants. Key changes include the requirement for applicants to pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification examination instead of previous examinations, and the board will now use the NBCOT for administering licensure examinations. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions for waiving examination requirements for certain applicants, including those certified by the NBCOT prior to the bill's effective date and those currently licensed in other states with equivalent standards.

The bill also revises the fee structure for licensure, increasing initial application fees for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants, as well as renewal fees. For example, the initial application fee for occupational therapists is raised from $50 to $150, while the renewal fee is increased from $25 to $100. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that continuing education requirements do not apply to individuals working as occupational therapists in state facilities or employed by state agencies. Overall, these amendments aim to streamline the licensure process and ensure that it aligns with current national standards.

Statutes affected:
HB1182 Original: 37:3006, 37:3009(B), 37:3012(B)(3), 37:3013(A)
HB1182 Engrossed: 37:3006, 37:3009(B), 37:3012(B)(3), 37:3013(A)
HB1182 Enrolled: 37:3006, 37:3009(B), 37:3012(B)(3), 37:3013(A)
HB1182 Act 933: 37:3006, 37:3009(B), 37:3012(B)(3), 37:3013(A)