TX
Texas House Bill HB3717

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB3717

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
4/20/09  
Voted on by House
5/6/09  
Out of Senate Committee
5/18/09  
Voted on by Senate
5/26/09  
Governor Action
6/19/09  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Enrolled
5/31/09  

Caption

Relating to exemptions from the requirement to hold a license to practice physical therapy.

Impact

The impact of HB 3717 on state laws is significant as it expands the scope of who can engage in physical therapy without a license. By allowing exemptions for foreign licensed therapists engaged in educational seminars and for military personnel, the bill seeks to enhance the workforce available for providing physical therapy services in Texas. This could lead to increased access to care for patients needing rehabilitation, particularly during emergencies or special projects, where licensed professionals are limited.

Summary

House Bill 3717 proposes amendments to the Occupations Code regarding the exemptions from the requirement to hold a license for practicing physical therapy in Texas. The bill explicitly outlines categories of individuals who would not need to obtain a license, such as physical therapy aides, related students, and licensed therapists temporarily operating within the state for specific short periods. This amendment is intended to ease regulatory burdens related to lower-level physical therapy practitioners and promote healthcare access, especially in situations involving education and emergencies.

Contention

While supporters argue that the bill will facilitate care provision and provide relief to educational institutions hosting physical therapy services, there may be contentions regarding the potential dilution of quality care. Opponents might express concerns that the lack of stringent licensing could allow unqualified individuals to practice, which can be detrimental to patient safety and the overall integrity of healthcare services. The balance between ensuring access and maintaining professional standards in healthcare remains a core point of discussion surrounding HB 3717.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2016

Relating to the eligibility requirements for a license as a massage establishment, massage school, massage therapist, or massage therapy instructor.

TX HB667

Relating to the licensing and regulation of music therapists; requiring an occupational license; authorizing fees.

TX HB1167

Relating to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapist associates, professional counselors, professional counselor associates, and social workers, including certain out-of-state applicants.

TX HB1683

Relating to the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact; authorizing fees.

TX SB1540

Relating to the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact; authorizing fees.

TX HB2553

Relating to the treatment of a patient by a physical therapist without a referral.

TX HB776

Relating to prohibited practices by physicians.

TX HB3579

Relating to the regulation of massage therapists and massage establishments by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and political subdivisions.

TX HB2495

Relating to the requirements to obtain or renew an athletic trainer license.

TX HB2556

Relating to the licensing and regulation of physician graduates and the authority of an insured to select a physician graduate under the insured's health insurance policy; requiring an occupational license; authorizing fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.