The original instrument and the following digest, which constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument, were prepared by Brandi Cannon.
DIGEST
SB 186 Original 2023 Regular Session Peacock
Present law provides that a person who wishes to practice occupational therapy in Louisiana must
meet certain minimum qualifications. Proposed law retains present law.
Proposed law enacts the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact. Proposed law allows Louisiana
to join a multi-state compact for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to obtain
multi-state license privileges to practice in participating compact states to enhance the portability of
an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant license and ensure the safety of patients.
Proposed law provides that each participating state in the compact adopt similar requirements for
expedited licensure including satisfaction of criminal background checks, licensure, and education.
Proposed law requires verification of licensure information through the coordinated information
system and exchange of information regarding discipline and adverse actions by all participating
states. Proposed law provides that the occupational therapy regulatory board in the state where the
patient is located shall regulate the occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant in that
state.
Proposed law establishes the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission and grants each
participating state one delegate on the commission chosen from the current members of the state
licensing board or the administrators of the state licensing board. Proposed law provides for the
powers, duties, financial authority, organization, and rulemaking functions of the commission.
Proposed law authorizes the commission to levy and collect an annual assessment from each member
state. Proposed law authorizes the commission to initiate legal action in federal court in the District
of Columbia or where the commission has its principal offices to enforce the compact's provisions.
Proposed law provides for oversight, enforcement, dispute resolution, and withdrawal from the
compact. Proposed law provides for construction and severability.
Effective January 1, 2024.
(Amends R.S. 37:3001; adds R.S. 37:3021)