Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Pedorthics; national entity certification required to provide care; Department of Workforce required to administer and record

This bill would replace Alabama's state licensing system for prosthetists, orthotists, and pedorthists with a national certification requirement administered by the Alabama Department of Workforce. Instead of requiring individuals and facilities to be licensed by the Alabama State Board of Prosthetists and Orthotists, the law would mandate that all providers obtain certification from a nationally recognized credentialing organization approved by the state department. Certified professionals must submit proof of their credentials annually to the department, which may charge a recording fee of up to $100 per person, with funds deposited into the state treasury. The bill also establishes criminal penalties for unlicensed practice and repeals the existing chapter of Alabama law that created the state licensing board.