This bill, HB110, makes changes to the law regarding the Alabama Physical Therapy Wellness Committee. The committee is given authority to enter into agreements with nonprofit corporations or medical professional associations to undertake certain functions and responsibilities related to impaired physical therapy licensees or compact privilege holders. The bill also establishes procedures for reporting statistical information and disclosing information to the board. It grants immunity from liability to committee members and entities that contract with or receive funds from the board for the committee's operation. The bill also amends the law regarding complaints against licensed physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and compact privilege holders, allowing any person to file a complaint with the board and granting the board the power to issue subpoenas and compel witness testimony and document production. The board may revoke a license or privilege if it determines that the individual has violated the law, and the individual may seek review of the board's decision in the Circuit Court of Montgomery County.

HB110 also makes changes to the licensing requirements and regulations for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in Alabama. The bill allows the board to restrict a license or compact privilege and require licensees or privilege holders to report regularly to the board on matters related to the reasons for the restricted license. It establishes fines and penalties for violations of the licensing requirements and outlines the requirements for licensure, including the submission of fingerprints for a criminal history background check. The bill also includes provisions for compact privilege applicants, who must pass the jurisprudence examination before the privilege is issued. The bill outlines the grounds for refusal, suspension, or revocation of a license and provides exemptions for licensed individuals who have a bona fide employment or independent contract with a physician or physician group. The bill will become effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-24-191, 34-24-193, 34-24-194, 34-24-196, 34-24-210, 34-24-210, 34-24-211, 34-24-212, 34-24-213, 34-24-214, 34-24-217
Enrolled: 34-24-191, 34-24-193, 34-24-194, 34-24-196, 34-24-210, 34-24-210, 34-24-211, 34-24-212, 34-24-213, 34-24-214, 34-24-217