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Bill

HB 1218

TO CREATE LICENSURE FOR THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SPECIALISTS; AND TO CREATE THE THERAPEUTIC RECREATION PRACTICE ACT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Duffield and 3 co-sponsors

Arkansas bill establishing state licensure for Therapeutic Recreation Specialists to standardize qualifications and professional standards in clinical healthcare settings; died in Senate committee.

Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1218

Legislative bill overview

HB 1218 would establish a state licensure system for Therapeutic Recreation Specialists in Arkansas and create the Therapeutic Recreation Practice Act to govern their professional standards. The bill sets requirements for practitioners working in clinical settings to use recreation and leisure activities as therapeutic interventions for patients with disabilities or illnesses.

Why is this important

Licensure would create standardized qualifications, accountability, and consumer protections for a growing healthcare field. It could expand access to evidence-based therapeutic recreation services in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mental health facilities while establishing clear professional boundaries and legal liability frameworks.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice clarity: Defining what therapeutic recreation specialists can do versus what requires physician oversight or conflicts with physical therapy/occupational therapy scopes could create jurisdictional disputes with established professions
  • Regulatory burden and cost: New licensure requirements may increase barriers to entry, reduce workforce availability in rural areas, and impose compliance costs on small facilities
  • Evidence base: Some healthcare stakeholders may question whether recreational therapy warrants independent licensure compared to existing professions, particularly if outcome data is limited in Arkansas's healthcare market

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

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