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SB 1532

Sunset Laws - As introduced, extends the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact to June 30, 2034. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 63, Chapter 13, Part 5.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Jackson

Tennessee extends occupational therapist interstate licensure compact through 2034, enabling licensed therapists to practice across member states without separate state licenses.

Signed by Senate Speaker
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Bill Summary · SB 1532

Legislative bill overview

SB 1532 extends Tennessee's participation in the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact until June 30, 2034. The compact allows occupational therapists licensed in one member state to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. This bill prevents the compact from expiring by renewing the state's authorization under state law.

Why is this important

The compact reduces regulatory barriers for occupational therapists seeking to work across state lines, which can increase access to therapy services in underserved areas and provide workforce flexibility for healthcare providers. For Tennessee, maintaining compact membership ensures therapists licensed here can continue practicing in other states and vice versa, supporting the state's healthcare ecosystem.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory uniformity concerns: Extending the compact assumes member states maintain compatible licensing standards; significant divergence in occupational therapy regulations across states could create quality assurance questions
  • Interstate reciprocity trade-offs: While mobility benefits therapists, some argue reciprocal agreements may reduce incentives for individual state oversight and accountability
  • Sunset timing: The 8-year extension means the issue won't be revisited until 2034; if licensing standards or healthcare needs shift significantly, the state would be locked into the agreement longer than necessary

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

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