The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy) supports O&P practitioners in Texas fighting to oppose Texas HB 1161, proposed by Representative Davis, which would allow broad exemptions to licenses in the state of Texas. This will put the orthotic and prosthetic profession and, more importantly, our patients at risk. We urge you to contact your representative TODAY to STRONGLY express your opposition to HB 1161. We have drafted a letter that includes a list of concerns that you can share with your representative.
Below you can read the proposed bill that will undermine licenses and allow for a multitude of unqualified individuals to fit ANY orthotic device.
By: Davis H.B. No. 1161
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to an exemption from the licensing requirement for certain persons who measure or fit orthoses under the supervision of certain licensed health care practitioners.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter G, Chapter 605, Occupations Code, is amended by adding Section 605.306 to read as follows:
Sec. 605.306. EXEMPTION FOR CERTAIN SUPERVISED PERSONS. This chapter does not apply to a person who measures or fits an orthosis under the supervision of:
(1) a physician practicing under Subtitle B; or
(2) a person described by Section 605.303.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2013.
For more information and to send a letter to contact your Texas representative click here (https://www.votervoice.net/AAOP/Campaigns/31816/Respond).
Manisha S. Bhaskar
Director of Publications & Marketing
American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists
1331 H Street, NW, Suite 501
Washington, DC 20005
PHONE (202) 380-3663
FAX (202) 380-3447
WWW.OANDP.ORG
