2024 sees two new states enact Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact legislation so far
Vermont and Minnesota became the 29th and 30th states respectively to join the OT Compact when in late May Vermont Governor Scott and Minnesota Governor Walz signed legislation into law in their respective states. Additionally, the District of Columbia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island have pending legislation that could still pass in 2024. Looking forward, several state associations where OT Compact legislation was not considered in 2024 are gearing up to introduce OT Compact legislation in 2025. Additionally, states that were not successful in passing such legislation in 2024 will likely introduce new legislation in 2025 as well.
AOTA is working closely with NBCOT®, state occupational therapy associations, and state regulatory boards to create an interstate licensure compact for the occupational therapy profession. The OT Compact will provide licensed occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants with the opportunity to practice in states that join the compact without having to secure a new license in each state.
As of June 2024, compact privilege applications are not yet open. In the coming months, the OT Compact Commission (OTCC) will be working to develop operational infrastructure, including the creation of a data system. The OTCC reports that privileges to practice are expected to be available in 2025.
For more information on the OT Compact, please visit the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact website: https://otcompact.org/.