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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Fifth Legislature, First Regular Session
occupational therapists; fingerprint clearance cards.
Purpose
Beginning January 1, 2022, requires applicants for occupational therapist and occupational therapy assistant licensure to possess fingerprint clearance cards.
Background
Occupational therapy is the use of therapeutic activities or modalities to promote engagement in activities with individuals who are limited by physical or cognitive injury or illness, psychosocial dysfunction, developmental or learning disabilities, sensory processing or modulation deficits or the aging process in order to achieve optimum functional performance, maximize independence, prevent disability and maintain health. Occupational therapy includes evaluation, treatment and consultation based on the client’s temporal, spiritual and cultural values and needs (A.R.S. § 32-3401).
Established
in 1989, the Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (BOTEX) is responsible for
regulating the occupational therapy profession in Arizona, evaluating the
qualifications of applicants seeking licensure as occupational therapists and
occupational therapy assistants, and prescribing examination requirements for
licensure. Licensure applicants must:
1) be of good moral character; 2) successfully complete the academic and
fieldwork requirements of an educational program subject to BOTEX review and
standards prescribed by BOTEX; and
3) take a written examination approved and administered by the National Board
for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Current statute additionally
requires that licensure applicants submit a full set of fingerprints to BOTEX
for the purpose of obtaining a criminal records check (A.R.S.
§§ 32-3404;
32-3423;
and 32-3430).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Requires, beginning January 1, 2022, applicants for original, renewal, reinstated or limited licensure as an occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant to possess a valid fingerprint clearance card, rather than submitting a full set of fingerprints to BOTEX for the purpose of obtaining a criminal records check.
2. Makes conforming changes.
3. Becomes effective on January 1, 2022.
House Action
HHS 2/1/21 DP 7-0-0-2
3rd Read 2/11/21 60-0-0
Prepared by Senate Research
March 8, 2021
CRS/kja