SRC-DBM S.B. 1347 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1347 76R8780 TBy: Lindsay Health Services 4/26/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, physical therapists and physical therapist assistants are required to obtain a specifically mandated number of continuing education units (CEUs) as a prerequisite to licensure renewal each biennium (three and two, respectively). The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners' agency support staff evaluates and approves programs offering CEUs. Allowing this function to be outsourced will not only allow agency staff to be available for other duties, but can also be expected to enhance the quality of the CEU programs. S.B. 1347 would authorize the evaluation and approval of continuing education for physical therapists. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1347 authorizes the evaluation and approval of continuing education for physical therapists. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 16A, Article 4512e, V.T.C.S., to require the Board of Physical Therapy Examiners to authorize licensee peer organizations to evaluate and approve continuing education courses in accordance with the established process. SECTION 2.Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.