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SB 501

Health occupations: physical therapists; licensing process; modify to incorporate physical therapy licensing compact. Amends secs. 16335, 17801 & 17821 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16335 et seq.) & adds secs. 17820a & 17820b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4101'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sylvia Santana

Michigan adopts interstate Physical Therapy Licensure Compact, allowing licensed PTs to practice across member states under single license while streamlining regulatory processes.

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#healthoccupations:physicaltherapists #stateagencies(existing):licensingandregulatoryaffairs #state:interstatecompactsandagreements
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Bill Summary · SB 501

Legislative bill overview

SB 501 modifies Michigan's physical therapist licensing laws to incorporate the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement that streamlines licensing for physical therapists across participating states. The bill amends existing licensing statutes and adds provisions to align Michigan's regulations with the compact's framework.

Why is this important

Physical therapists currently must obtain separate licenses in each state where they practice, creating administrative burden and cost. The compact allows licensed physical therapists to practice in multiple member states under a single license, potentially improving patient access to care—particularly in rural areas—and reducing barriers for healthcare providers who work across state lines.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer protection standards: Critics may worry that streamlined multi-state licensing could reduce state-specific oversight or create inconsistencies in practitioner qualifications and discipline across jurisdictions
  • Reciprocity concerns: Questions about whether the compact adequately protects against licensing individuals with disciplinary histories in other states, and whether Michigan's standards might be diluted by accepting practitioners licensed elsewhere
  • Economic impact on in-state practitioners: Existing physical therapists in Michigan may face increased competition from out-of-state providers, potentially affecting market dynamics and business viability

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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