The bill amends the licensure requirements for occupational therapy in New Jersey by introducing new definitions and concepts aimed at enhancing the practice. Key insertions include the definitions of "client," "continuing competence and professional development," and "occupational performance," which clarify the services provided by licensed occupational therapists and assistants. The bill mandates that continuing competence and professional development be required for licensure renewal, ensuring practitioners maintain relevant skills and knowledge. Additionally, it acknowledges the diverse communities served by occupational therapy by introducing the term "LGBTQIA+."

The bill also modifies the structure and responsibilities of the Occupational Therapy Advisory Council, increasing the required annual meetings from two to four and extending council members' term limits from two to three successive terms. It updates the eligibility criteria for licensure by removing the requirement for supervised fieldwork experience and instead requiring successful completion of an examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) or another recognized agency. These changes aim to modernize the practice of occupational therapy in New Jersey, ensuring that practitioners are equipped to meet the needs of their clients effectively. The changes will take effect on the first day of the thirteenth month following the bill's passage, applying to initial licensure applications and renewals submitted after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:9-37.53, 45:9-37.54, 45:9-37.55, 45:9-37.57, 45:9-37.61, 45:9-37.62, 45:9-37.63, 45:9-37-64, 45:9-37.68