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KY HB117

KY HB117
AN ACT relating to physical therapy.


summary

Introduced
01/08/2025
In Committee
01/08/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
02/04/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Amend various sections of KRS Chapter 327, relating to the practice and regulation of physical therapy, to state legislative findings; allow a physical therapist to refer a patient for tests or examination; require a practitioner or employer to report a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant who has been convicted of a misdemeanor; require potential board members to not have been under any disciplinary action in the past five years; permit the Board of Physical Therapy to purchase professional liability insurance; authorize the board to convene committees and task forces to review and advise the board on pertinent issues; authorize the board to promulgate administrative regulations to establish fee amounts, issue advisory opinions and declaratory rulings related to this chapter, and issue a license to a physical therapist assistant applicant; prohibit physical therapists and physical therapist assistants from engaging in sexual contact with any active patient of record or parent or legal guardian of the active patient of record; require the board to develop guidelines to follow upon receipt of an allegation of sexual misconduct by a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant; allow the board to receive periodic education on issues affecting the practice of physical therapy and public protection; allow the board to determine which disciplinary records may be expunged; authorize the board to establish the amounts, limits, or ranges for any fines imposed; repeal and reenact KRS 327.010 to define terms; repeal and reenact KRS 327.080 to deposit to the credit of a revolving fund for the use of the board; require all expenses of the board to be paid from the revolving fund.

AI Summary

This bill comprehensively updates Kentucky's laws regarding physical therapy regulation, with several key provisions. The bill establishes legislative findings that physical therapy practice should be regulated to protect public health, and clarifies definitions related to physical therapy professionals. It expands the Board of Physical Therapy's powers, allowing them to create committees, issue advisory opinions, and purchase professional liability insurance. The bill introduces new reporting requirements for practitioners, including mandatory reporting of misdemeanor convictions, and prohibits sexual contact between physical therapists and their patients. The legislation also creates more robust disciplinary procedures, including the ability to establish fine amounts, develop guidelines for handling sexual misconduct allegations, and potentially expunge certain disciplinary records. Additionally, the bill updates licensing and renewal processes, establishes a revolving fund for board expenses, and requires criminal background checks for all license applicants. The bill aims to enhance professional standards, improve public protection, and provide clearer regulatory guidelines for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in Kentucky.

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

WITHDRAWN (on 02/04/2025)

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