Healthcare (Licensing)

HB 13 creates the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, allowing occupational therapists and assistants licensed in one participating state to practice in other member states without obtaining a new license. It directly affects licensed therapists seeking to work across state lines, patients accessing services in different states, and military spouses relocating with their partners. Key mechanisms include establishing "compact privilege" for interstate practice, requiring states to share disciplinary and investigative information through a national data system, and supporting telehealth delivery of services. The bill aims to improve access to occupational therapy while maintaining each state's authority to protect public health and safety through existing licensure standards.