 | RI Occupational therapy association |
Legislation & AdvocacyRIOTA is committed to protecting and advancing the practice of occupational therapy through active engagement in legislative advocacy. We work tirelessly to represent the interests of occupational therapy practitioners and clients at the local, state, and national levels. From supporting impactful legislation like the OT Interstate Licensure Compact to providing updates on policy changes, RIOTA empowers our members to stay informed and make their voices heard. Explore the highlights from this year’s RIOTA Business Meeting by viewing our Everyday Advocacy presentation. View the PowerPoint here.
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Legislative Advocacy
RIOTA works to keep members informed of legislative updates and provides opportunities to engage in advocacy efforts. Our mission is to protect and advance occupational therapy at the local, state, and national levels. RIOTA actively monitors legislation at both the state and national levels to advocate for policies that advance the profession of occupational therapy and ensure access to quality care. Our legislative efforts are guided by the needs of our members and the communities we serve.
Key Legislative Efforts
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National Advocacy:
RIOTA supports national initiatives highlighted by the AOTA Advocacy and Policy Center. Key federal bills we’ve monitored include:- U.S. Senate Bill S-3513: Providing Americans Insured Days of Leave Act of 2020.
- H.R. 6150: Paid Sick Days for Public Health Emergencies and Personal and Family Care Act.
Both bills aim to enhance paid sick leave provisions, expand the definition of family care, and remove restrictive work hour requirements to qualify for benefits.
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State-Level Advocacy:
In Rhode Island, RIOTA’s Legislative Committee remains engaged with lawmakers and healthcare stakeholders. Notable efforts include:- Supporting the OT Interstate Licensure Compact, which was successfully passed in 2024.
- Providing input on reinstating occupational therapy services at the Veterans Hospital.
- Advising on legislation requiring progress updates for parents of children with IEPs, ensuring clear communication about existing practices.
Bills We’re Monitoring
RIOTA is actively tracking and providing input on several state bills, including:
- H7229 / S2225: Physical Therapy Copay.
- H7234 SubA: Physical Therapy Ordering of Diagnostic Imaging.
- S2117 / H7178: Expanding in-home care coverage for Alzheimer’s care.
- S2236: Insurance coverage for accessible residence modifications.
- H7053: Exempting home healthcare products from taxation.
Legislative Resources
National Advocacy
Stay informed about federal policies impacting occupational therapy and take action with these resources:
- AOTA Advocacy and Policy Center: Explore key federal initiatives and access the Legislative Action Center to support OT advocacy.
- Federal Legislation: Look up the text of federal bills, track their progress, and stay updated on legislative developments.
Rhode Island Advocacy
Learn about your state legislature and stay engaged with Rhode Island’s legislative process:
- State of RI General Assembly: General information about the legislature and tools to find your state Representative and Senator.
- Bill Tracker – State of RI General Assembly: Subscribe for free email updates on bills of interest.
- Legislation Information – State of RI General Assembly: Look up the text and details of individual bills.
- State of RI General Assembly Capitol TV: Watch committee hearings and legislative sessions live as bills are introduced, reviewed, or voted upon.
- Governor’s Commission on Disabilities: Learn about statewide initiatives to promote accessibility and support for individuals with disabilities.