New York Assembly Bill A08478

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/16/25
• Refer: 5/16/25
• Report Pass: 5/20/25
• Refer: 5/20/25
• Report Pass: 5/21/25
• Engrossed: 5/21/25
• Refer: 5/21/25
• Engrossed: 6/9/25
• Enrolled: 6/18/25
• Chaptered: 6/20/25
• Chaptered: 6/18/25
• Passed: 6/20/25
• Passed: 6/18/25

Caption

Relates to extending provisions of law relating to physical therapy assistant services in public and private primary and secondary schools.

Impact

The impact of A08478 is substantial as it affects how physical therapy services are administered in schools, allowing many students with disabilities or rehabilitation needs to receive support within their learning environments. This is particularly important in the context of inclusive education, where such services promote the educational advancement of students who may have previously faced barriers in education due to their physical limitations. Furthermore, by extending the provisions, the bill helps ensure that the schools have the necessary trained personnel to deliver these services effectively.

Summary

Bill A08478 seeks to amend the education law regarding the provision of physical therapy assistant services in both public and private primary and secondary schools. The core aim of this bill is to extend the current provisions that allow physical therapy assistants to operate within these educational institutions that were previously set to expire in mid-2025. By resetting the expiration date to June 30, 2030, the bill ensures continuity in the provision of essential health services to students who may require physical therapy as part of their educational experience.

Contention

Notable points of contention around this bill could stem from debates regarding funding and resource allocation for these services. Questions may arise concerning whether schools have the requisite budgets to maintain physical therapy services while balancing other educational needs. Additionally, stakeholders might express differing opinions on the adequacy of training and oversight for physical therapy assistants in an educational setting. These discussions highlight the broader implications of integrating health services within the school framework and whether the current training and regulatory measures are sufficient to ensure student safety and effective service delivery.