Bill > H0867

This bill allows occupational therapists to perform dry needling, a therapeutic technique involving inserting thin needles into specific points in muscles to relieve pain and improve function, by defining "dry needling" and "myofascial trigger point" (a tender spot in a muscle that can cause pain elsewhere in the body) and establishing new requirements for occupational therapists. Specifically, the Board of Occupational Therapy Practice must set minimum standards for performing dry needling, which include having at least two years of licensed practice, completing 50 hours of specialized continuing education covering the theory, safe handling of equipment, indications, contraindications, psychomotor skills, and post-intervention care of dry needling, and either performing 25 patient sessions under supervision or having completed 25 sessions as a licensed occupational therapist. The bill also mandates patient consent and that dry needling be part of a documented care plan, and it prohibits delegation of this procedure to anyone other than a qualified occupational therapist. Furthermore, the Board may require additional training for dry needling of the head, neck, or torso if deemed necessary for patient safety, and the Department of Health must report to the Legislature by December 31, 2028, on the number of occupational therapists performing dry needling, any geographic shifts in their practice, and any adverse incidents. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Health & Human Services Committee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/867