CA Joint Manipulation Bill Voted Down, But Reconsideration Granted
Physical therapists (PTs) from across California descended on the state capitol in Sacramento on Monday to show their opposition to Senate Bill 381, legislation aimed at prohibiting physical therapists from performing joint manipulation. California SB 381, authored by state Sen Leland Yee and sponsored by the California Chiropractic Association, was heard on April 15 in the California Senate Business, Professions, and Economic Development Committee.
The legislation would prohibit anyone other than a chiropractor, physician, or osteopath from performing joint manipulation in the state and make the term "joint manipulation" synonymous with "joint adjustment." Under SB 381, any health care practitioner other than a chiropractor, physician, or osteopath who performs a joint manipulation in California would be considered to be engaged in the unlawful practice of chiropractic and result in the possible revocation or suspension of the health care practitioner's license.
While SB 381 was voted down 6-1, the bill was granted "reconsideration," meaning that the Senate committee could reconsider the legislation at a future date. California Chapter members are encouraged to continue contact their state legislators and the members of the Senate Business, Professions, and Economic Development Committee to oppose SB 381, as the bill may be reconsidered as early as this Monday, April 22.
Watch the hearing at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lx_hD1udS4c. (The first part of the video shows testimony from supporters of SB 381; testimony from PTs in opposition to SB 381 begins at the 21:15 mark.)