Relates to recreational therapy

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Lanza

Relates to recreational therapy: establishes higher-ed standards for programs, credentialing, and funding, shaping college curricula, student paths, and therapist credentials.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION

S 5901 — Relates to recreational therapy

Overview

Bill Number: S 5901

Title: Relates to recreational therapy

Status: REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION

Introduced: March 3, 2025

Related Bills (prior-session): S 4043, S 5570, S 4299

Legislative Actions: 2025-03-03 — REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION

Note: The available information provided here includes only the bill’s metadata (number, title, committee referral and introduction date) and related bills. The actual text of S 5901 is not included in the provided materials. The summary below outlines what is typically involved in a bill with this subject and what the action as described could imply.

Purpose and intent (based on the title)

The bill “Relates to recreational therapy” indicates a focus on the field of recreational therapy within the higher education context. While the exact objectives are not listed, such bills commonly address higher education policies, program standards, credentialing/education requirements, or funding related to recreational therapy programs.

Potential provisions (illustrative; not prescriptive for this bill)

Because the full text is not provided, the following are typical areas such bills may cover. The actual provisions should be read in the official bill text:
- Definitions: Clarifying what constitutes recreational therapy and related professional standards.
- Education and credentialing: Requirements for degree programs (e.g., bachelor's or master’s programs in recreational therapy), accreditation criteria, instructor qualifications, or credentialing/licensing pathways.
- Program funding and support: Allocation of state funds or grants to higher education institutions for recreational therapy programs, internships, or clinical training partnerships.
- Board or regulatory alignment: Roles for state education or health/regulatory boards in overseeing programs, certifications, or practice standards.
- Grant reporting and accountability: Annual reporting requirements on program outcomes, enrollment, and job placement.
- Collaboration with healthcare and community organizations: Partnerships to enhance clinical training, research, or service delivery in recreational therapy.
- Implementation timelines: Effective dates for new requirements and any phase-in periods.

Affected parties and impact

Higher education institutions: May need to establish or modify recreational therapy programs, coursework, or accreditation processes.

Students and prospective students: Could experience changes in degree requirements, program availability, or credentialing pathways.

Recreational therapists and employers: Impacts on credentialing standards, continuing education, and alignment with state requirements.

State education and health authorities: Potential new or updated oversight, reporting, or funding responsibilities.

Procedural timeline and next steps

Current status: Referred to the Higher Education committee on March 3, 2025.

Next steps (typical): Committee hearings, potential amendments, votes, and, if approved, movement to a floor vote, with possible conference or further actions depending on the legislative process.

For stakeholders: Monitor committee agendas and the bill text for exact language, fiscal notes, and implementation dates.

Related legislation

S 4043 (prior-session)

S 5570 (prior-session)

S 4299 (prior-session)

Note

For a precise understanding of S 5901’s purpose, provisions, and impact, please consult the official bill text, fiscal notes, and committee reports once released.