Tennessee Senate Bill SB1618

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/24
• Engrossed: 2/5/24
• Enrolled: 2/6/24
• Passed: 2/21/24
• Chaptered: 3/19/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 63, Chapter 13, relative to the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact.

Impact

With the enactment of SB1618, Tennessee will join the growing number of states adopting the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, enhancing accessibility to occupational therapy services for residents and improving workforce mobility for licensed professionals. By allowing occupational therapists to practice in member states without obtaining additional state licenses, the bill aims to alleviate barriers that currently hinder the provision of care, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This change is expected to provide residents with more options for receiving timely therapies while simultaneously addressing workforce shortages in healthcare.

Summary

Senate Bill 1618 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 4, Chapter 29, and Title 63, Chapter 13, to establish the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact (OT Compact). This compact allows for the mutual recognition of occupational therapy licenses across participating states, simplifying the process for occupational therapists to practice in multiple states without the need for multiple licenses. The bill is seen as a significant step towards facilitating interstate cooperation in the field of healthcare, especially in the context of occupational therapy services, which are critical for rehabilitation and patient support.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1618 has generally been positive, particularly among occupational therapy professionals and associations who view the compact as a beneficial move for the profession and the public. Supporters argue that it streamlines the regulatory process, enhances collaboration among states, and ultimately improves patient care by ensuring that qualified therapists can practice where they are most needed. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the implications of joining such compacts, including potential state regulation losses and the need for states to ensure that the quality of care remains high across all member states.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the concern that joining the OT Compact may undermine state-level regulatory authority over occupational therapy practices. Some legislators have voiced worries about ensuring that the standards and practices of therapists in Tennessee do not fall below the established state standards. Additionally, there are discussions about the long-term implications of interstate licensure on local job markets for therapy professionals, with some fearing that it could lead to a reduction in demand for therapists based specifically in Tennessee.