SB104 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Jim McClendon

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Physical therapy, eliminate requirement for referral from physician or other health care practitioner to perform physical therapy, Secs. 34-24-191, 34-24-210.1, 34-24-217 am'd.

Summary

SB 104 would remove the requirement that physical therapy must be based on a referral from a licensed health care practitioner.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill would change Alabama law to eliminate the referral requirement for most physical therapy services. Licensed physical therapists would be able to provide physical therapy without needing a referral from physicians, dentists, chiropractors, physician assistants, or nurse practitioners. The changes affect definitions and the rules in related sections (34-24-191, 34-24-210.1, and 34-24-217) and would take effect on the first day of the third month after passage.

Who It Affects

• Licensed physical therapists and physical therapist assistants would gain the ability to treat patients without referrals in more situations.
• Patients seeking physical therapy could access services without needing a prior referral from a doctor or other health care professional.

Key Provisions

• Amends Sections 34-24-191, 34-24-210.1, and 34-24-217 to remove the prohibition on practicing physical therapy without a referral.
• Eliminates the requirement that physical therapy be performed only upon referral from a licensed health care practitioner, expanding how therapy may be initiated and performed.
• Updates the statutory definitions related to physical therapy and licensees in the affected sections.
• Effective date: the act becomes law on the first day of the third month following passage and approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 23, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Physical Therapists