The bill establishes the "Occupational Therapy Licensure Interstate Compact," designed to enhance the interstate practice of occupational therapy and improve public access to these services. It creates a framework for member states to mutually recognize licenses while maintaining state regulatory authority. The compact allows for the use of telehealth technology and facilitates the sharing of licensure and disciplinary information among states. Additionally, the bill amends the Occupational Therapy Act to require state and federal criminal history background checks for licensure applicants, ensuring that member states have mechanisms for investigating complaints and complying with commission rules.

Furthermore, the bill creates the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission, which will oversee the regulation of occupational therapy across state lines. The commission will consist of delegates from each member state's licensing board and will have the authority to conduct joint investigations and take adverse actions based on findings from other states. It also introduces provisions for qualified immunity for commission members, mandates the development of a coordinated data system for licensure information, and outlines the responsibilities of the commission and member states in enforcing the compact. The compact will take effect once enacted by the tenth member state, with provisions for withdrawal and termination of membership for non-compliance.

Statutes affected:
JC substitute: 61-12A-9