The Senate passed a bill extending the termination date of the State Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Board. The board is set to expire on June 30 of this year and in voting 16-0 to pass Senate Bill 222, it would be extended to June 30, 2030.
Bill sponsor, Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson said:
“The board provides oversight for medical services utilized by many Alaskans. Extending the board’s termination date, it would allow for continued regulation of the practice of physical and occupational therapy in our state ensuring that the industry adheres to best practices. The legislative auditor determined that the board’s served in the public’s best interests by conducting meetings in accordance to state laws, amending certain regulations to improve the professions of physical therapy and occupational therapy, and effectively licensing and regulating physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapists, and occupational therapy assistants. There is no opposition to the board’s extension, and I urge the body to support this bill.”
The board consists of seven members. The board also can pass on the qualifications of applicants; provide for the examination of applicants; issue temporary permits and licenses to qualified people; suspend, revoke, and or refuse to issue or renew a license; keep a current register listing the name, business address, date, and number of the license of each person who is licensed to practice; and adopt regulations establishing qualifications for licensure renewal.
The bill passed on a 16-0 vote and was transmitted to the House for consideration.
Transcribed audio courtesy of KTOO 360TV.