AL SB302

Amends Alabama Code sections 34-39-3 and 34-39-7 and adds section 34-39-12.1 to establish an impaired practitioner program for occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants under the Alabama State Board of Occupational Therapy.

Defines "impaired" as the inability of an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant to practice with reasonable skill and safety due to illness, inebriation, excessive use of drugs, narcotics, alcohol, chemicals, or other substances, or physical or mental conditions.

Requires the board to establish an impaired practitioner program beginning January 1, 2022, and authorizes the board to contract with nonprofit corporations or medical professional associations to create an Alabama Occupational Therapy Wellness Committee.

The wellness committee may receive and evaluate reports of suspected impairment, intervene in verified cases, refer practitioners to treatment programs, monitor rehabilitation, and provide post-treatment support, with all committee information protected as privileged and confidential.

Committee members and associated entities are granted immunity from civil or criminal liability for actions taken in performance of their duties, and the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage.