IL HB5212

Amends the Illinois Occupational Therapy Practice Act to allow the Department to license occupational therapists and assistants by endorsement if applicants file required forms, pay fees, and meet departmental rules regarding education and practice recognition.

Allows applicants with 10 consecutive years of practice in another jurisdiction to qualify for endorsement by providing certified verification of licensure without discipline.

Amends the Illinois Physical Therapy Act with identical endorsement provisions for physical therapists and assistants, including the 10-year practice alternative pathway.

Permits the Department to waive English proficiency examination requirements by rule for physical therapy applicants.

Sets 3-year deadline for applicants to complete the endorsement application process; applications not completed within 3 years are denied, fees forfeited, and applicant must reapply under current requirements.