SF2615 - Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics Practice Act

• Establishes Minnesota Statutes chapter 153B to regulate the practice of orthotics, prosthetics, and pedorthics, requiring state licensure for practitioners in these fields.

• Creates a 9-member Board of Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics with authority to license, examine, and discipline practitioners in seven license categories: orthotists, prosthetists, pedorthists, assistants, fitters (orthotic, mastectomy, therapeutic shoe), and technicians.

• Sets qualifications for each license type, ranging from high school diploma/GED for assistants and technicians to baccalaureate degrees and CAAHEP-accredited education programs plus residencies for orthotists and prosthetists.

• Provides a transition period until January 1, 2016, allowing ABC-certified practitioners and those with equivalent credentials to obtain licensure; after that date, all practitioners must meet the chapter's requirements.

• Prohibits unlicensed practice as a misdemeanor and grants the board authority to investigate violations, conduct hearings, and impose disciplinary actions including license denial, suspension, revocation, or probation.