SB4 Summary

• Amends Section 34-25A-3 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to further define "orthosis" under the Prosthetists and Orthotics Act.

• Expands the definition of orthosis to explicitly include custom-fitted orthoses (devices assembled or modified by licensed practitioners for specific patients), in addition to custom-fabricated orthoses.

• Clarifies that orthosis excludes prefabricated, direct-formed, and off-the-shelf orthotic devices, except for scoliosis treatment, and lists specific excluded items such as commercially available knee braces, arch supports, elastic hose, crutches, and cervical collars.

• Defines off-the-shelf orthotic devices as commercially manufactured items designed for any patient that are self-adjusting without need for assembly or modification beyond patient adjustment.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and Governor approval, with Senate passage on February 8, 2022 and House passage on March 2, 2022.