Relating to authorizing the Board of Occupational Therapy to promulgate a legislative rule relating to competency standards for advanced practice by occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Smith

House Bill 2307 empowers West Virginia's Board of Occupational Therapy to set competency standards for advanced practice, enhancing care quality for patients.

To House Government Organization

#legislature--rulemaking

Summary of House Bill 2307

Bill Number: HB 2307
Title: Relating to authorizing the Board of Occupational Therapy to promulgate a legislative rule relating to competency standards for advanced practice by occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants
Status: To House Government Organization
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Legislature--Rule Making

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2307 aims to authorize the Board of Occupational Therapy in West Virginia to establish and implement competency standards for advanced practice by occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants. This legislative rule is intended to enhance the professional standards and practices within the field of occupational therapy, ensuring that practitioners meet specific competency requirements.

Key Provisions

Authorization of Legislative Rule: The bill specifically authorizes the Board of Occupational Therapy to promulgate a legislative rule concerning competency standards for advanced practice. This rule is based on a previous filing in the State Register and has been modified to address concerns raised by the Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee.

Competency Standards: The rule will outline the necessary competencies that occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants must demonstrate to practice at an advanced level. This may include specific skills, knowledge areas, and professional behaviors that are essential for effective practice.

Impact

Occupational Therapists and Assistants: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants in West Virginia. By establishing clear competency standards, the bill aims to enhance the quality of care provided to patients and ensure that practitioners are well-equipped to meet the demands of advanced practice.

Regulatory Framework: The bill contributes to the regulatory framework governing occupational therapy in West Virginia, potentially leading to improved professional development and accountability within the field.

Procedural Timeline

January 29, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Tony M. McCombie.

February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.

February 12, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Government Organization.

March 4, 2025: Assigned to the Executive Committee.

March 12, 2025: The Executive Committee recommended the bill for passage with a "Do Pass" vote (012-000-000).

March 27, 2025: The bill was held on the calendar for second reading and short debate.

May 31, 2025: The deadline for the third reading was extended under Rule 19(a).

Conclusion

House Bill 2307 represents a significant step towards enhancing the standards of practice for occupational therapists and assistants in West Virginia. By empowering the Board of Occupational Therapy to establish competency standards, the bill aims to ensure that practitioners are adequately prepared to provide high-quality care in their advanced practice roles.