Bill
Bill > SB981
PA SB981
PA SB981Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Recreational Therapist"; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal
summary
Introduced
08/25/2025
08/25/2025
In Committee
08/25/2025
08/25/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Amending the act of July 9, 1987 (P.L.220, No.39), entitled "An act licensing and regulating the practice of social work; providing penalties; and making an appropriation," further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Recreational Therapist"; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice.
AI Summary
This bill amends the Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors Act to formally recognize and regulate licensed recreational therapists. The bill adds comprehensive definitions for "licensed recreational therapist," detailing the professional practice, methods, and techniques of recreational therapy, which includes activities designed to help individuals with illnesses or disabilities improve functioning, promote health and wellness, and enhance participation in play, leisure, recreation, and community activities. The bill expands the State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors to include a licensed recreational therapist member and establishes specific licensing requirements for recreational therapists, such as being at least 18 years old, maintaining certification from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification, and meeting ethical and professional conduct standards. The legislation also introduces restrictions on using the title "Licensed Recreational Therapist" without proper licensing, imposes potential civil penalties for violations, and provides mechanisms for license reciprocity, endorsement, and renewal. These changes aim to professionalize recreational therapy, ensure practitioner qualifications, and protect public safety by establishing clear regulatory standards for the profession.
Committee Categories
Labor and Employment
Sponsors (15)
Lynda Schlegel-Culver (R)*,
Dave Argall (R),
Amanda Cappelletti (D),
Carolyn Comitta (D),
Jay Costa (D),
Wayne Fontana (D),
James Malone (D),
Tracy Pennycuick (R),
Joseph Picozzi (R),
Devlin Robinson (R),
Nikil Saval (D),
Judy Schwank (D),
Sharif Street (D),
Tina Tartaglione (D),
Elder Vogel (R),
Last Action
Referred to Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure (on 08/25/2025)
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...