Advocacy in Action: Modernizing New Jersey's Occupational Therapy Practice Act

Senate Bill S1493 (Assembly Bill A3381) Signed Into Law by Governor Sherrill

Celebrating a Historic Victory

 

Modernizing New Jersey's Occupational Therapy Practice Act has been a multi-year effort built upon relationships, collaboration, and a shared commitment to advancing occupational therapy across our state. What began as targeted conversations about how to best reflect contemporary OT practice evolved into committee testimony, meetings with state policymakers, and sustained advocacy across multiple legislative sessions.

Today, we celebrate a monumental milestone: Senate Bill S1493 has officially passed both houses of the New Jersey Legislature and was signed into law by Governor Sherrill.

Key Highlights of the Legislation

This bill modernizes our Practice Act to reflect the evolving role of OT practitioners and the diverse needs of the communities we serve:

  • First-of-its-Kind Practice Scope: Expressly recognizes contemporary practice areas, including parental and women's health, pelvic health and intimacy, LGBTQIA+ issues, sports and concussion management, disaster preparedness, and population health management.

  • Foundation for the OT Licensure Compact: Updates continuing competence requirements, establishing the necessary groundwork for New Jersey's future participation in the OT Licensure Compact.

  • National Alignment: Aligns state licensure provisions with current national standards to strengthen the profession across all practice settings.

 

Legislative Journey & Acknowledgments

This achievement was made possible through the dedicated leadership of our sponsors, advocacy partners, and legislative champions:

  • Senate Bill S1493 Sponsor: Senator Joseph P. Cryan (District 20)

  • Assembly Bill A3381 Sponsor: Assemblyman Sterley S. Stanley (District 18)

  • Legislative Supporters: Senators Robert W. Singer and Joseph A. Lagana; Assemblymembers Luanne M. Peterpaul, Margie Donlon, Anthony S. Verrelli, Shama A. Haider, Eddie Freeman Tully, Shanique Speight, Michael Inganamort Azzariti Jr., Gerry Scharfenberger, Ph.D., and Carol A. Murphy.

What Comes Next & How to Get Involved

Advocacy doesn't end when legislation passes. We are now entering the next phase: awaiting the formal drafting of regulations by the New Jersey Occupational Therapy Advisory Council.

NJ OT Advisory Council Vacancies

There are currently two vacant seats on the Advisory Council that need to be filled. If you are interested in representing the profession and serving in this vital role, please reach out directly.

Strengthen the Future of OT in New Jersey

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