This bill amends various sections of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to strengthen the regulation of occupational credentials, particularly for marriage and family therapists and occupational therapy practices. It allows for the issuance of licenses and certificates to marriage and family therapists licensed in other jurisdictions, contingent upon meeting specific criteria, such as holding a valid license in good standing and passing the Nebraska jurisprudence examination. The bill also modifies the scope of practice for occupational therapy, introducing new definitions and requirements, including the roles of occupational therapy aides and assistants, and emphasizing the importance of supervision and competence in service delivery.

Additionally, the bill revises the Occupational Therapy Practice Act to clarify licensing and practice requirements, including the introduction of a temporary license for applicants awaiting examination results. It specifies that occupational therapists can perform certain services based on their training while prohibiting independent diagnosis of medical conditions. The bill also establishes new definitions related to occupational therapy modalities and amends the Child Care Licensing Act to require proof of liability insurance for child care license applicants. Stricter regulations for background checks for child care staff are introduced, including national criminal history checks and eligibility criteria based on criminal backgrounds. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the safety and quality of child care services while ensuring that occupational therapy practitioners meet necessary standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 38-2125, 38-2130
Final Reading: 38-2125, 38-2130, 38-2501, 38-2503, 38-2506, 38-2507, 38-2510, 38-2511, 38-2512, 38-2513, 38-2514, 38-2516, 38-2517, 38-2518, 38-2520, 38-2526, 38-2527, 38-2530, 38-2531, 71-1911.03, 71-1912, 71-1913
Slip Law: 38-2125, 38-2130, 38-2501, 38-2503, 38-2506, 38-2507, 38-2510, 38-2511, 38-2512, 38-2513, 38-2514, 38-2516, 38-2517, 38-2518, 38-2520, 38-2526, 38-2527, 38-2530, 38-2531, 71-1911.03, 71-1912, 71-1913