Bill > SB1389

This bill expands the scope of practice for occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech pathologists who are employed by or contracted with the Department of Education (DOE), allowing them to diagnose medical conditions that can be treated through their respective therapeutic services without requiring a physician's prior diagnosis. The legislative findings indicate that this change will help the DOE more effectively bill for therapeutic services and remove barriers to reimbursement, ultimately improving students' access to critical support services. Specifically, the bill amends existing statutes to explicitly permit these licensed professionals to diagnose medical conditions in educational settings, including interventions such as evaluating students' needs, developing individualized treatment plans, improving motor skills, adapting classroom environments, training teachers and parents, recommending assistive technology, and providing targeted therapeutic interventions. The goal is to streamline service delivery, generate additional funding for therapeutic resources, and enable students to participate more fully in educational and social activities by providing timely access to occupational, physical, and speech therapy services. The bill will take effect upon its approval by the appropriate legislative authorities.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1389&year=2026