NY A09371

Amends education law to require occupational therapists to complete "at least" a baccalaureate or master's degree program, or its equivalent as determined by the department, removing previous language about certificate programs.

Allows the department to determine equivalencies to degree programs through commissioner's regulations rather than specifying a fixed standard.

Modifies requirements for occupational therapy assistants to require completion of "at least" a two-year associate degree program, or its equivalent as determined by the department.

Permits equivalencies for assistants' education to be determined by the department through commissioner's regulations in accordance with national accreditation standards.

Takes effect 120 days after becoming law, with a contingency provision aligning with the effective date of chapter 470 of the laws of 2015 for the assistant provisions.