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PA SB981
Bill
Status
8/25/2025
Primary Sponsor
Lynda Schlegel Culver
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AI Summary
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Creates a new "Licensed Recreational Therapist" credential in Pennsylvania, requiring practitioners to hold certification from the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification and obtain a state license to use the title or provide recreational therapy services.
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Expands the State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors from 13 to 15 members, adding one licensed recreational therapist seat with a four-year term.
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Defines recreational therapy as the professional application of play, recreation, leisure, and community activities to treat individuals with illness or disabling conditions, including assessment, treatment planning, discharge planning, and community integration services.
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Establishes reciprocity provisions allowing out-of-state licensed recreational therapists to obtain Pennsylvania licensure and permits temporary practice during declared emergencies for up to 60 days without a license.
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Authorizes civil penalties up to $10,000 for unlicensed practice of recreational therapy and takes effect 60 days after enactment.
Legislative Description
Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Recreational Therapist"; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice.
Last Action
Referred to Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure
8/25/2025