S.B. No. 918 amends the Occupations Code to provide a framework for exemptions from licensing requirements for orthotists and prosthetists. The bill allows the commission to exempt individuals from one or more academic, clinical training, or examination requirements established under Section 605.252, provided that the individual presents satisfactory evidence of possessing unique qualifications to practice in the field. Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals granted an exemption will still be issued a license if they meet all other requirements of the chapter, except for those for which an exemption is granted.

The legislation also clarifies that individuals holding a license obtained through an exemption will have the same privileges as those who meet all educational and vocational requirements. Furthermore, the bill specifies that the commission cannot impose the exempted requirements as conditions for license renewal. The changes will apply only to license applications submitted on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 605.254 (Occupations Code 605)
Senate Committee Report: Occupations Code 605.254 (Occupations Code 605)
Engrossed: Occupations Code 605.254 (Occupations Code 605)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 605.254 (Occupations Code 605)
Enrolled: Occupations Code 605.254 (Occupations Code 605)