The bill amends the Public Health Code by adding Section 16188, which establishes the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact in Michigan. This compact is designed to facilitate the interstate practice of Occupational Therapy, thereby improving public access to services while maintaining state regulatory authority. Key objectives include mutual recognition of licenses among member states, enhanced public health protection, support for military spouses, and the promotion of telehealth technology. Member states must comply with the compact's rules, implement a data-sharing system for licensee information, and establish requirements for exercising Compact Privileges, which allow licensed professionals to practice in other member states under specific conditions.

Additionally, the bill outlines the governance structure of the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission, which will oversee the implementation of the Compact, including rulemaking, financial management, and compliance enforcement. It mandates that meetings of the Commission be open to the public, with provisions for closed sessions under certain circumstances, and requires the maintenance of accurate financial records. The bill also introduces a comprehensive data system for sharing licensure and investigative information among member states, emphasizing transparency and public participation in the rulemaking process. The Compact will take effect once enacted by the tenth member state, and any conflicting laws will be superseded by the Compact's provisions.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (S-1): 333.1101, 333.25211
House Introduced Bill: 333.1101, 333.25211
As Passed by the House: 333.1101, 333.25211