Bill > S05612

This bill amends the New York education law to authorize and provide guidelines for occupational therapy services in schools for students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. Specifically, the bill allows school districts to provide occupational therapy services to students who have occupational impairments that do not adversely affect their educational performance but do create barriers to functioning at home or in the community. The bill defines occupational therapy services as screening, evaluation, consultation, treatment, and other interventions delivered by licensed occupational therapists or occupational therapy assistants. Students with impairments that significantly impact their educational performance will be referred to the committee on special education for further evaluation. The bill also directs the commissioner of education to issue guidance memorandums to school districts about occupational therapy services, including information about early intervention, mental health-related services, and the scope of practice for school occupational therapists. Additionally, the commissioner is required to update regulations regarding pupil personnel services to include licensed occupational therapists and establish qualifications for school occupational therapists. The bill will take effect 120 days after becoming law.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5612