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Bill

SB 1346

physical therapists; disability placards

57th Legislature - First Regular Session Introduced by T.J. Shope

Arizona law now allows physical therapists to issue temporary disability placards, expanding access to accessible parking for mobility-impaired patients in therapy.

Signed by Governor
0
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Bill Summary · SB 1346

Legislative bill overview

SB 1346 authorizes physical therapists to issue temporary disability placards to patients with mobility impairments, a function previously limited to physicians. The bill streamlines access to accessible parking for individuals undergoing physical therapy by allowing qualified therapists to evaluate and certify temporary disability needs.

Why is this important

This change reduces bureaucratic barriers for people with mobility challenges who need accessible parking during recovery or treatment. It recognizes physical therapists' clinical expertise in assessing functional limitations and could expedite placard issuance for patients in active rehabilitation.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice expansion: Some medical boards or physician groups may view this as physical therapists overstepping traditional boundaries or duplicating physician authority
  • Placard misuse concerns: Opponents may worry that broader issuance authority could increase fraudulent or inappropriate placard use without physician oversight
  • Varying therapist qualifications: Questions about whether all physical therapists have equivalent training to reliably assess permanent versus temporary disability status

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

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