The bill amends Minnesota's physical therapy laws by updating definitions and supervision requirements for physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students in training. Key changes include an expanded definition of "physical therapy" to include diagnosis, appropriate testing, and health promotion education. The bill emphasizes on-site supervision and direct patient contact for student physical therapists and assistants, limiting licensed physical therapists to supervising no more than two assistants at a time. It also outlines the responsibilities of physical therapist assistants regarding student supervision and introduces new criminal penalties for unauthorized practice, while clarifying disciplinary actions for licensees guilty of gross negligence or unprofessional conduct.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that physical therapists can treat patients without a referral when collaborating with licensed professionals in good standing, and it specifies that the previous 90-day limitation on treatment without a referral does not apply to preventive, wellness, educational, or exercise services. New provisions categorize violations of these regulations as gross misdemeanors, allowing the Board of Physical Therapy to impose civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation and seek court injunctions against violators. The bill also repeals outdated provisions and sections of the Minnesota Statutes related to licensed health care professionals, streamlining the legal framework for physical therapy practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 148.65, 148.706, 148.75, 148.76