TITLE 22.EXAMINING BOARDS

Part 3. TEXAS BOARD OF CHIROPRACTIC EXAMINERS

Chapter 71. APPLICATIONS AND APPLICANTS

22 TAC §71.2

The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposes an amendment to §71.2(b), relating to the application for a license. By separate rulemaking in this issue of the Texas Register , the board is proposing to amend §75.7, to accept personal or company checks for payment of fees. At present, except for facility licenses, it requires a money order or a cashier's or certified check. The proposed amendment to §75.7 permit the use of a personal or company check, money order, cashier or certified check. To discourage checks drawn on insufficient funds, the board is also establishing a fee for a returned check in the amount of $25. The proposed amendment also sets out procedures and requirements for processing an application for which a check has been returned. In conjunction with this rulemaking, the board is proposing amendments to §§71.2(b), 73.2(a), 78.1, for consistency and conformity with the proposed amendment to §75.7. By this rulemaking, the board is deleting provisions in subsection (b) of §71.2 that will be covered in the amended §75.7. See also the separate rulemakings published in this issue of the Texas Register . Subsection (b) is also being amended to state when the fee for the initial license must be paid and to provide for prorated fees for the initial license, which reflects the current practice of the board.

Dr. Sergio François, D.C., Chair, Rules Committee, has determined that for the first five-year period the section as amended is in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section as amended.

Dr. François also has determined that for each year of the first five years, the section as amended is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing and administering the section, as amended, along with the changes being proposed in the other related rulemaking, will be more timely compliance with the board license and renewal requirements and collection of required fees. Submission of applications will be simplified and expedited if applicants, licensees and registrants no longer have to acquire money orders or certified checks before sending in their applications. There are no probable economic costs to persons required to comply with the section, as amended. There is no anticipated adverse economic effect on small or micro-businesses.

Comments may be submitted, in writing, no later than 30 days after the date of publication of this proposed rulemaking, to Jessica Harwell, Rules Committee, Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower III, Suite 825, Austin, TX 78701.

The amendment is proposed under the Occupations Code, §201.152, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt rules necessary for the performance of its duties, the regulation of the practice of chiropractic, and the enforcement of the act, and §201.153, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt necessary fees for administration of its programs.

The following are the statutes, articles, or codes affected by the amendment: Chapter 71 -- Occupations Code, §201.152, §201.153

§71.2.Application for License.

(a)

All individuals who wish to practice chiropractic in this state, and who are not otherwise licensed under law, must successfully pass an examination given by or at the direction of the board.

(b)

An applicant for licensure through [ Individuals who seek to take such ] examination shall submit to the board a written application, on a form provided by the board . [ , ] The information contained in the application shall be verified by affidavit of the applicant. Along with the application, an applicant shall also submit a [ accompanied by a ] nonrefundable fee for verification of educational courses/grades for college and an examination fee, as [ in amounts ] provided by §75.7 of this title (relating to Fees and Charges for Public Information ). At the examination, an applicant shall submit the fee for a new license as provided in §75.7 of this title. The amount of the fee shall be prorated from the month of the examination to the birth month of the applicant. [ The information contained in the application shall be verified by affidavit of the applicant. Payment of fees shall be in the form of a bank-certified check, cashier's check, or money order payable to the order of the board. ]

(c)

Applications for examination must be legibly printed in ink or typewritten on the board form, which will be furnished by the board upon request.

(d)

The completed application, required supporting materials, and fees must be received by the board in verified form not later than 30 days before the first day of the examination. Under extenuating circumstances, the board, at its discretion, may accept material supporting the application later than 30 days before the examination.

(e)

The filing of an application and tendering of the fees to the board shall not in any way obligate the board to admit the applicant to examination until such applicant has been approved by the board as meeting the statutory requirements for admission to the examination for licensure.

(f)

Any person furnishing false information on such application shall be denied the right to take the examination, or if the applicant has been licensed before it is made known to the board of the falseness of such information, such license shall be subject to suspension, revocation or cancellation in accordance with the Chiropractic Act, §14a.

(g)

No application fee for examination will be returned to any applicant after the application has been approved by the board, because of the decision of the applicant not to take the examination for any reason.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 14, 2001.

TRD-200102659

Gary K. Cain, Ed.D.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6709


Chapter 75. RULES OF PRACTICE

22 TAC §75.3

The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposes an amendment to §75.3, relating to persons with criminal convictions. The amendment makes changes in text for clarification, delete the reference to "registered" facility and substitute "licensed" facility, to be consistent with the term used in the Chiropractic Act, chapter 201 of the Occupations Code, add a specific deadline for persons to respond to a notice of a conviction sent by the board, and add a specific reference to mail fraud as one of the offenses directly related to professions and businesses regulated by the board, instead of this offense being considered solely in connection with insurance billing fraud or the catch-all provision in paragraph 6 of subsection (k).

Dr. Serge P. François, D.C., Chair, Rules Committee, has determined that for the first five-year period the proposed amendment is in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section as amended.

Dr. François also has determined that for each year of the first five years, the section as amended is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section as amended will be better notice to licensees and the public of board procedures and requirements relating to the licensure and registration of persons with criminal backgrounds. There is no anticipated economic effect on small or micro businesses or economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the proposed section. The section's requirements on these persons reflect current state law requirements; the section does not impose any additional requirements or costs.

Comments may be submitted, in writing, no later than 30 days after the date of publication of this proposed rulemaking, to Jessica Harwell, Rules Committee, Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower III, Suite 825, Austin, Texas 78701.

The amendment is proposed under the Occupations Code, §201.152, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt rules necessary for the performance of its duties, the regulation of the practice of chiropractic, and the enforcement of the Chiropractic Act, and §53.025, which the board interprets as requiring it to adopt guidelines relating to the disciplinary practices of the board under Occupations Code, Chapter 53.

The following are the statutes, articles, or codes affected by the amendment: §75.3 -- Occupations Code, §§201.152, 53.025

§75.3.Individuals With Criminal Convictions.

(a)

This section establishes guidelines and criteria on the eligibility of persons with criminal backgrounds, including each person who owns a 10% or more interest in a chiropractic facility, to obtain licenses or registrations as chiropractors , [ or ] chiropractic radiologic technologists (CRTs) or chiropractic facilities [ facility registrations ].

(b)

The board may suspend or revoke a current license or registration, disqualify a person from receiving a license or registration, or deny to a person the opportunity to be examined for a license because of a [ an ] person's conviction of a felony or misdemeanor that directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of a licensed chiropractor, registered CRT, or licensed [ registered ] facility. This subsection applies to persons who are not imprisoned at the time the board considers the conviction.

(c)

The board shall revoke a license or registration on the license or registration holder's imprisonment following a felony conviction[ , ] or revocation of felony community supervision, [ revocation, revocation of ] parole, or [ revocation of ] mandatory supervision. A person in prison is not eligible for a license or registration.

(d)

In considering whether a criminal conviction directly relates to the occupation of chiropractic, chiropractic radiology, or facility operation, the board shall consider:

(1)

the nature and seriousness of the crime;

(2)

the relationship of the crime to the purposes for requiring a license or registration to engage in chiropractic, chiropractic radiology, or facility operation;

(3)

the extent to which a license or registration might afford an opportunity to repeat the criminal activity in which the person had been involved; and

(4)

the relationship of the crime to the ability, capacity, or fitness required to perform the duties and discharge the responsibilities of a licensed chiropractor, registered CRT, or licensed [ registered ] facility.

(e)

In reaching a decision required by this section, the board shall also determine the person's fitness to perform the duties and discharge the responsibilities of a licensed chiropractor, registered CRT, or licensed [ registered ] facility. In making this determination, the board shall consider the following factors listed in paragraphs (1)-(6) of this subsection:

(1)

the extent and nature of the person's past criminal activity;

(2)

the age of the person at the time of the commission of the crime;

(3)

the amount of time that has elapsed since the person's last criminal activity;

(4)

the conduct and work activity of the person prior to and following the criminal activity;

(5)

evidence of the person's rehabilitation or rehabilitative effort while incarcerated or following release; and

(6)

other evidence of the person's present fitness, including letters of recommendation from:

(A)

prosecution, law enforcement, and correctional officers who prosecuted, arrested, or had custodial responsibility for the person;

(B)

the sheriff and chief of police in the community where the person resides; and

(C)

any other persons in contact with the convicted person.

(f)

An applicant for a license , including an owner with a 10% or more interest in a chiropractic facility, or registration from the board [ or a current licensee or registrant ] shall disclose in writing to the board any conviction against him or her at the time of application . A [ or, if a ] current licensee , including an owner with a 10% or more interest in a chiropractic facility, or registrant, shall disclose in writing to the board any conviction against him or her at the time of renewal or no later than 30 days after judgment in the trial court, whichever date is earlier.

(g)

Upon notification of a conviction, the board shall provide a copy of this section to the person and request that the person respond [ , in writing, ] to the board as to why the board should not deny the application or take disciplinary action against the person, if already licensed or registered.

(h)

A person with a [ felony ] conviction shall provide the [ a ] response in writing to the board within 15 days after receipt of the notice of a conviction and may submit any information that he or she believes is relevant to the determinations required by this section. If the person fails to respond, the matter will be referred to the Enforcement Committee or the Licensure/Educational Standards Committee as provided in subsection (i) of this section. The person shall also:

(1)

to the extent possible, secure and provide to the board the recommendations of the prosecution, law enforcement, and correctional authorities specified in subsection (e)(6) of this section;

(2)

cooperate with the board by providing the information required by subsection (e) of this section, including proof, in the form indicated in subparagraphs (A)-(D) of this paragraph, that he or she has:

(A)

maintained a record of steady employment, as evidenced by salary stubs, income tax records or other employment records for the time since the conviction and/or release from imprisonment;

(B)

supported his or her dependents, as evidenced by salary stubs, income tax records or other employment records for the time since the conviction and/or release from imprisonment, and a letter from the spouse or other parent;

(C)

maintained a record of good conduct as evidenced by letters of recommendation, absence of other criminal activity or documentation of community service since conviction; and

(D)

paid all outstanding court costs, supervision fees, fines, and restitution as may have been ordered in all criminal cases in which he or she has been convicted, as evidenced by certified copies of a court release or other documentation from the court system that all monies have been paid.

(i)

Determinations under this section will be considered enforcement matters and made in accordance with this chapter, except that the executive director will review the application for licensure or registration of a person with a criminal conviction and refer it to the Licensure/Educational Standards Committee (LESC), upon receipt of all information required by this section. The LESC shall determine whether the applicant may sit for examination or be granted a certificate of registration or license . Upon a recommendation to deny an application by the LESC, the matter will be referred to the Executive Director for informal settlement or, if necessary, a hearing as provided by §75.9(d) of this title (relating to Complaint and Disciplinary Procedures).

(j)

The board shall notify the affected person in its order that denies, suspends, or revokes a license or registration under this section, or otherwise in writing, after hearing, of:

(1)

the reason for the suspension, revocation, denial, or disqualification;

(2)

the review procedure provided by Occupations Code, §53.052; and

(3)

the earliest date the person may appeal the action of the licensing authority.

(k)

The Chiropractic Act, Occupations Code §201.302, requires that an applicant for licensure be of good moral character. Section 201.502 further authorizes the board to revoke or impose other sanctions for violations of certain specified conduct, including deception and fraud in the practice of chiropractic, conviction of a felony or a misdemeanor of moral turpitude, grossly unprofessional conduct, habitual conduct that is harmful to patients, and lack of diligence in the chiropractic profession. Chiropractors and the healthcare profession generally are held to high standards of professional conduct. To protect the public and patients, the board has a duty to ensure that licensees and registrants are persons who possess integrity, honesty and a high standard of conduct as well the skill, education, and training to perform their duties and responsibilities. The crimes listed in paragraphs (1)-(6) of this subsection relate to the licenses and registration [ license and registrations ] issued by the board. These crimes generally indicate an inability or a tendency for the person to be unable to perform or to be unfit for licensure or registration because violation of such crimes indicates a lack of integrity and respect for one's fellow human being and the community at large. The direct relationship to a board issued license or registration is obvious when the crime occurs in connection with the practice of chiropractic.

(1)

practicing chiropractic without a license and other violations of the Chiropractic Act;

(2)

deceptive business practices;

(3)

medicare or medicaid fraud;

(4)

a misdemeanor or felony offense involving:

(A)

murder;

(B)

assault;

(C)

burglary;

(D)

robbery;

(E)

theft;

(F)

sexual assault;

(G)

injury to a child;

(H)

injury to an elderly person;

(I)

child abuse or neglect;

(J)

tampering with a governmental record;

(K)

forgery;

(L)

perjury;

(M)

failure to report abuse;

(N)

bribery;

(O)

harassment;

(P)

insurance claim fraud , including under the Penal Code §32.55; [ or ]

(Q)

solicitation under the Penal Code §38.12(d) or Occupations Code, Chapter 102; or

(R)

mail fraud;

(5)

delivery, possession, manufacture, or use of or the dispensing or prescribing a controlled substance, dangerous drug, or narcotic; or

(6)

other misdemeanors or felonies, including violations of the Penal Code, Titles 4, 5, 7, 9, and 10, which indicate an inability or tendency for the person to be unable to perform as a licensee or registrant or to be unfit for licensure or registration if action by the board will promote the intent of the Chiropractic Act, board rules including this chapter, and Occupations Code, Chapter 53.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 14, 2001.

TRD-200102660

Gary K. Cain, Ed.D.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6709


22 TAC §75.7

The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposes an amendment to §75.7, relating to board fees. The board is proposing to accept personal or company checks for payment of fees. At present, except for facility licenses, it requires a money order or cashier's check. The proposed amendments permit the use of a personal or company check, money order, cashier or certified check. To discourage checks drawn on insufficient funds, the board is also establishing a fee for a returned check in the amount of $25. If a check is returned, the application for a license, registration or renewal is considered incomplete with all the attendant consequences. A licensee or registrant must immediately submit a money order or check on guaranteed funds before the application will be deemed complete. Any license or renewal cards already issued will be invalid pending resubmission of the fee, and a newly issued license or renewal card may not be displayed until the application is complete. If payment is past due as a result of a returned check, the licensee or registrant must also pay any late fees incurred and may not practice or operate under the license or registration until the application is complete. A person who fails to make good on the check and pay all required fees within 10 days will be required to remit future fees in the form of a money order or cashier's or certified check. Other non-substantive amendments have been made to the section for update and clarification. In conjunction with this rulemaking, the board is proposing amendments to §§71.2(b), 73.2(a), 78.1, for consistency and conformity with the proposed amendments to §75.7. See the separate rulemakings published in this issue of the Texas Register .

Dr. Sergio François, D.C., Chair, Rules Committee, has determined that for the first five-year period the section as amended is in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section as amended. The proposed returned check fee will offset any additional administrative costs as a result of bad checks.

Dr. François also has determined that for each year of the first five years, the section as amended is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing and administering the section, as amended, along with the changes being proposed in the other related rulemaking, will be more timely compliance with the board license and renewal requirements and collection of required fees. Submission of applications will be simplified and expedited if applicants, licensees and registrants no longer have to acquire money orders or certified checks before sending in their applications. There are no probable economic costs to persons required to comply with the rule, as amended, except the fee for returned checks. That cost can be avoided by paying with checks with sufficient funds. There is no anticipated adverse economic effect on small or micro-businesses.

Comments may be submitted, in writing, no later than 30 days after the date of publication of this proposed rulemaking, to Jessica Harwell, Rules Committee, Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower III, Suite 825, Austin, Texas 78701.

The amendment is proposed under the Occupations Code, §201.152, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt rules necessary for the performance of its duties, the regulation of the practice of chiropractic, and the enforcement of the act, and §201.153, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt necessary fees for administration of its programs.

The following are the statutes, articles, or codes affected by the amendment: §75.7 -- Occupations Code, §§201.152, .153

§75.7.Fees and Charges for Public Information.

(a)

Current fees required by the board are listed in the following fee schedule table:

Figure: 22 TAC §75.7(a)

(b)

The board is required to increase its fees for annual renewal, a provisional license, an examination, and re-examination by $200 pursuant to the Occupations Code §201.153(b) [ Texas Civil Statutes, Article 4512b §11B ]. That increase is reflected in subsection (a) of this section under the column entitled "153(b) FEE" . [ "§11B FEE." ] The total amount of each of these fees must be paid before the board will process an application subject to such fee.

(c)

Any remittance submitted to the board in payment of a required fee must be in the form of a personal or company check, cashier's or certified check for guaranteed funds, or money order, made out to the "Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners." Checks from foreign financial institutions are not acceptable. Persons who have submitted a check which has been returned, and who have not made good on that check and paid the returned check fee provided in subsection (a) of this section, within 10 days from notice from the board of the returned check, for whatever reason, shall submit all future fees in the form of a cashier's or certified check or money order.

(d)

An applicant for an initial license or registration, whose check for the application processing, examination or initial licensing fee is returned due to insufficient funds, account closed, or payment stopped, shall be allowed to reinstate the application by remitting a money order or cashier's or certified check for guaranteed funds, for the amount of the fee and the returned check fee, immediately upon receipt of the board's notice that the check was returned. Upon receipt of a returned check, the application is considered incomplete until all fees have been received and cleared through the appropriate financial institution. If the license has already been issued, it shall be invalid and may not be displayed until the application is complete.

(e)

A licensee or registrant whose check for the renewal fee is returned due to insufficient funds, account closed, or payment stopped shall remit a money order or cashier's or certified check for guaranteed funds, for the amount of the fee and the returned check fee, immediately upon receipt of the board's notice that the check was returned. If the guaranteed funds are received after the expiration of the renewal deadline, a licensee or registrant must also include a late renewal fee as required by §73.2(d) of this title (relating to Expired Licenses), §74.3(c) of this title (relating to Annual Renewal (Facilities)), or §78.1(e) of this title (relating to Expired Registration (CRT)). Upon receipt of a returned check, the application will be considered incomplete until all fees have been received and cleared through the appropriate financial institution. If the renewal license or registration has already been issued, it shall be invalid and may not be displayed until the application is complete.

(f)

[ (c) ] Copies of public information, not excepted from disclosure by the Texas Open Records Act, Chapter 552, Government Code, including the information listed in paragraphs (1)-(6) of this subsection may be obtained upon written request to the board, at the rates established by the General Services Commission for copies of public information, 1 TAC §§111.61-111.70 ( relating to Copies of Public Information).

(1)

List of New Licensees;

(2)

Lists of Licensees;

(3)

Licensee Labels;

(4)

Demographic Profile;

(5)

Facilities List;

(6)

Facilities Labels.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 14, 2001.

TRD-200102661

Gary K. Cain, Ed.D.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6709


22 TAC §75.11

The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposes an amendment to §75.11, relating to its schedule of sanctions for violations of board rules and orders, or law, including the Chiropractic Act, Occupations Code, Chapter 201. The purpose of the amendment is to update the schedule of sanctions' table, Figure: 22 TAC §75.11(b), by changing the references to the Chiropractic Act and the Health Professions Council Act since their codification in the Occupations Code, and by adding or revising violations listed in the schedule as a result of other rule changes since the schedule was adopted. New listings in the schedule relate to practicing or operating without a facility license or an with an expired license or registration, overcharging for copies of patient records, failing to maintain patient records, displaying an invalid license or renewal card, and failure to report required locum tenens information or a criminal conviction. Other changes in text and form have been made to correct errors in citation and for clarification and consistency. Readers can compare the proposed schedule with the current schedule, by accessing the "attached graphic", in the current §75.11, at the secretary of state's website, for the Texas Administrative Code, at (Click on TAC Viewer, Title 22 Examining Boards, TBCE, Chapter 75, §75.11).

Dr. Serge P. François, D.C., Chair, Rules Committee, has determined that for the first five-year period the proposed amendment is in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section as amended.

Dr. François also has determined that for each year of the first five years, the section as amended is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section as amended will be better notice to licensees and the public of the possible maximum sanctions for violations of the Chiropractic Act, other law, and board rules. There is no anticipated economic effect on small or micro businesses or economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted, in writing, no later than 30 days after the date of publication of this proposed rulemaking, to Jessica Harwell, Rules Committee, Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower III, Suite 825, Austin, Texas 78701.

The amendment is proposed under the Chiropractic Act, Occupations Code §201.152, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt rules necessary for the performance of its duties, the regulation of the practice of chiropractic, and the enforcement of the Act, including Subchapters E, K, and L, which authorize the board to sanction licensees and others for violations of the Act and its rules and orders, and specifically §201.503, which the board interprets as requiring the board to adopt rules establishing a schedule of sanctions for violations of the Act.

The following are the statutes, articles, or codes affected by the proposed rule: §75.11 -- Occupations Code §§201.152, .503, and Subchapters E, K, L

§75.11.Schedule of Sanctions.

(a)

The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1)

AP--Administrative Procedure Act, Government Code, Chapter 2001.

(2)

Board--Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners;

(3)

Chiropractic Act or CA--Occupations Code, Chapter 201 (formerly Texas Civil Statutes, Article 4512b);

(4)

HPCA--Health Professions Council Act, Occupations Code, Chapter 101;

(5)

HRC [ HRS ]--Human Resources Code;

[(6)

H&S--Health and Safety Code;]

(6)

[ (7) ] Licensee--A person who is licensed by the board to practice chiropractic in the State of Texas;

(7)

[ (8) ] MRTCA--Medical Radiologic Technologist Certification Act, Occupations Code, Chapter 601; [ and ]

(8)

Occ. Code--Occupations Code;

(9)

Respondent--an individual or facility regulated by the board against whom a complaint has been filed;

(10)

SOAH--State Office of Administrative Hearings;

(11)

TDH--Texas Department of Health.

(b)

The following table contains maximum sanctions that may be assessed for each category of violation listed in the table:

Figure: 22 TAC §75.11(b)

(c)

In a case where a respondent [ the licensee ] has committed multiple violations or multiple occurrences of the same violation, board staff, the enforcement committee or an administrative law judge may recommend and the board may impose sanctions in excess of a maximum sanction specified in the maximum sanction table provided by subsection (b) of this section, if otherwise authorized by law. For the fourth and subsequent offenses of any violation listed in the maximum sanction table with three levels of sanctions, the maximum sanction is revocation and/or $1000 administrative penalty.

(d)

An administrative penalty may not exceed $1,000 per day for each violation. Each day a violation continues or occurs is a separate violation for the purposes of imposing an administrative penalty.

(e)

For violation of a statute which is not listed in the maximum sanction table and for which the board is authorized to take disciplinary action, the maximum sanction is revocation and/or $1000 administrative penalty.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 14, 2001.

TRD-200102662

Gary K. Cain, Ed.D.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6709


Chapter 78. CHIROPRACTIC RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGISTS

22 TAC §78.1

The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposes an amendment to §78.1, relating to registration of chiropractic radiologic technologists (CRTs). By separate rulemaking in this issue of the Texas Register , the board is proposing to amend §75.7, to accept personal or company checks for payment of fees. At present, except for facility licenses, it requires a money order or a cashier's or certified check. The proposed amendments to §75.7 permit the use of a personal or company check, money order, cashier or certified check. To discourage checks drawn on insufficient funds, the board is also establishing a fee for a returned check in the amount of $25. The proposed amendments also set out procedures and requirements for processing an application for which a check has been returned. In conjunction with this rulemaking, the board is proposing amendments to §§78.1, 71.2(b), and 73.2(a), for consistency and conformity with the proposed amendment to §75.7. By this rulemaking, the board is deleting provisions in subsections (c) and (d) of §78.1 that will be covered in the amended §75.7. See also the separate rulemakings published in this issue of the Texas Register .

Dr. Sergio François, D.C., Chair, Rules Committee, has determined that for the first five-year period the section as amended is in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section as amended.

Dr. François also has determined that for each year of the first five years, the section as amended is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing and administering the section, as amended, along with the changes being proposed in the other related rulemaking, will be more timely compliance with the board license and renewal requirements and collection of required fees. Submission of applications will be simplified and expedited if applicants, licensees and registrants no longer have to acquire money orders or certified checks before sending in their applications. There are no probable economic costs to persons required to comply with the section, as amended. There is no anticipated adverse economic effect on small or micro-businesses.

Comments may be submitted, in writing, no later than 30 days after the date of publication of this proposed rulemaking, to Jessica Harwell, Rules Committee, Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower III, Suite 825, Austin, TX 78701.

The amendment is proposed under the Occupations Code, §201.152, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt rules necessary for the performance of its duties, the regulation of the practice of chiropractic, and the enforcement of the act, and §201.153, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt necessary fees for administration of its programs.

The following are the statutes, articles, or codes affected by the amendment: §78.1 -- Occupations Code, §§201.152, .153

§78.1.Registration of Chiropractic Radiologic Technologists.

(a)

Registration required. Any person performing radiologic procedures in a chiropractic facility must register with the board, on a form prescribed by the board. This section does not apply to registered nurses or to persons certified under the Medical Radiologic Technologist Certification Act.

(b)

Eligibility. An applicant for registration must either:

(1)

submit proof of the applicant's registry with the Texas Department of Health (TDH) and completion of training and instruction as required by 25 TAC §143.17 (concerning mandatory training programs for non-certified technicians); or

(2)

perform radiologic procedures for a licensee to whom a hardship exemption was granted by the TDH within the previous 12 months under 25 TAC §143.19 (concerning hardship exemptions).

(c)

Application submission. An applicant shall submit an application for registration, proof of status as provided in subsection (b) of this section, along with the radiologic technologist application fee as provided in §75.7 of this title (relating to Fees and Charges for Public Information ) [ , payable to the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners by cashier's check or money order ].

(d)

Renewal. On or before January 1 of each year, a CRT shall renew his or her registration, by submitting:

(1)

a registration application;

(2)

the radiologic technologist application fee as provided in §75.7 of this title (relating to Fees and Charges for Public Information) [ , payable to the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners by cashier's check or money order ];

(3)

proof of renewal status as provided in subsection (b) of this section; and

(4)

proof of completion of continuing education or enrollment in mandatory training and instruction as provided by subsection (i) of this section.

(e)

Expired registration.

(1)

A CRT registration expires on January 1 of each year if it is not timely renewed.

(2)

If a CRT's registration has expired, a person may renew his or her registration by submitting to the board all of the items required by subsection (d) of this section and a late fee of $25.

(3)

A person who fails to renew his or her registration on or before the expiration date may also be subject to an administrative penalty and other disciplinary sanctions as provided in subsection (h) of this section.

(f)

Incomplete applications. No registration will be issued on an incomplete submission. Application or renewal packages that are submitted without all of the required documents or fees will be deemed incomplete and returned to the applicant.

(g)

TDH authorization. A person may not perform radiologic procedures if that person is removed from the TDH registry or the hardship exemption under which the person is working is expired or revoked even if the person holds a valid CRT registration with the board. A CRT must provide to the board a copy of a hardship exemption granted by the TDH within five days of its issuance if the exemption is granted prior to the registration renewal deadline.

(h)

Disciplinary sanctions. The board may refuse to issue or renew, suspend, or revoke a CRT registration and/or impose an administrative penalty for the following:

(1)

violation of the rules or an order of the board;

(2)

violation of the Medical Radiologic Technologist Certification Act;

(3)

violation of the rules or an order of the TDH;

(4)

violation of the Texas Chiropractic Act; or

(5)

nonpayment of registration fees.

(i)

Continuing education. A CRT shall complete six clock hours of continuing education each year in order to renew his or her registration. The continuing education required by this subsection shall meet the requirements of the rules of the TDH relating to continuing education for medical radiologic technologists. No continuing education will be required for any year in which a CRT is enrolled for the mandatory training and instruction program required by 25 TAC §143.17 (concerning mandatory training programs for non-certified technicians).

(j)

TDH compliance. All registrants shall comply with the rules of the TDH for the control of radiation.

(k)

Supervision required. A CRT shall perform radiological procedures only under the supervision of a licensee physically present on the premises.

(l)

Cineradiography. Procedures that include cineradiography are limited to use by a licensee who has passed a course in its use, approved by the board.

(m)

Non-static procedures. Any non-static procedure has the potential to be more dangerous and hazardous and by definition may only be performed by a licensee or a certified medical radiologic technologist.

(n)

Licensee responsibility. A licensee shall not authorize or permit a person:

(1)

who is not registered under this section to perform radiologic procedures on a patient unless otherwise authorized under the Medical Radiologic Technologist Act or 25 TAC, Chapter 143 (concerning medical radiologic technologists); or

(2)

to perform radiologic procedures on a patient if that person has been removed from the registry of the TDH or the licensee's hardship exemption has been revoked or has expired.

(o)

Licensee compliance. A licensee shall comply with the Medical Radiological Technologist Certification Act and all applicable rules of the TDH.

(p)

Laws governing disciplinary action. Disciplinary action against a CRT, including the imposition of administrative penalties, is governed by the Administrative Procedures Act, Government Code, Chapter 2001, and applicable enforcement provisions of the Texas Chiropractic Act, Occupations Code, Chapter 201, including Subchapters K through M.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 14, 2001.

TRD-200102663

Gary K. Cain, Ed.D.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6709


Chapter 79. PROVISIONAL LICENSURE

22 TAC §79.3

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners proposes to repeal §79.3 relating to criminal convictions. The subject matter of §79.3 has been transferred to a §75.3. Accordingly, §79.3 is no longer needed.

Dr. Serge P. François, D.C., Chair, Rules Committee, has determined that for the first five-year period the section is repealed, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of the repeal.

Dr. François also has determined that for each year of the first five years, the section as amended is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of the repeal is clearer rules, with the duplicate provision being repealed. There are no probable economic costs to persons required to comply with the section, as amended. There is no anticipated adverse economic effect on small or micro-businesses.

Comments may be submitted no later than 30 days from the date of this publication, to Jessica Harwell, Rules Committee, Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Tower III, Suite 825, Austin, TX 78701.

The repeal is proposed under the Occupations Code, §201.152, which the board interprets as authorizing it to adopt rules necessary for the performance of its duties, the regulation of the practice of chiropractic, and the enforcement of the Chiropractic Act.

The following are the statutes, articles, or codes affected by the repeal: Chapter 79 -- Occupations Code, §201.152

§79.3.Criminal Convictions.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 14, 2001.

TRD-200102664

Gary K. Cain, Ed.D.

Executive Director

Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6709


Part 16. TEXAS BOARD OF PHYSICAL THERAPY EXAMINERS

Chapter 321. DEFINITIONS

22 TAC §321.1

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes an amendment to §321.1, concerning Definitions. The amendment is intended to clarify the meaning of the word "asymptomatic."

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no effect on state or local government.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be a clearer understanding of terms. There will be no effect on small business, and no economic cost to persons having to comply is anticipated.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§321.1.Definitions.

The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in the rules of the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) - (2)

(No change.)

(3)

Asymptomatic-- Without obvious signs or symptoms of disease [ Without any significant perceptible change in the body or its functions that indicates disease ].

(4) - (14)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 8, 2001.

TRD-200102597

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900


Chapter 322. PRACTICE

22 TAC §322.1

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes an amendment to §322.1, concerning Provision of Services. The amendment will allow physical therapists to accept referrals for treatment from physicians and other authorized healthcare practitioners who are licensed only in a country outside the United States.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no effect on state or local government.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be easier access to healthcare, as those who have referrals from physicians outside of the U.S. will be able to seek physical therapy treatment in the state. There will be no effect on small business, and no economic cost to persons having to comply is anticipated.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§322.1.Provision of Services.

(a)

Initiation of physical therapy services

(1)

Referral requirement. A physical therapist is subject to discipline from the board for providing physical therapy treatment without a referral from a qualified healthcare practitioner licensed by the appropriate [ state ] licensing board [ in any of the United States or its territories, or the District of Columbia ], who within the scope of the professional licensure is authorized to prescribe treatment of individuals. The list of qualifying referral sources includes physicians, dentists, chiropractors, podiatrists, physician assistants, and advanced nurse practitioners.

(2) - (3)

(No change.)

(b) - (e)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 8, 2001.

TRD-200102598

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900


Chapter 325. ORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD

22 TAC §325.1

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes an amendment to §325.1, concerning Elections. The amendment eliminates confusion by changing the text of the rule to match the wording of the law more closely.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no effect on state or local government.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be increased administrative efficiency. There will be no effect on small business, and no economic cost to persons having to comply is anticipated.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§325.1.Elections.

Elections of officers shall be held at the first board meeting after new members are appointed [ in odd numbered calendar years ]. Officers will assume duties at the next board meeting [ 60 days after elected ]. Vacancies of offices shall be filled by election at the next board meeting.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 8, 2001.

TRD-200102599

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900


Chapter 329. LICENSING PROCEDURE

22 TAC §329.2

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes an amendment to §329.2, concerning License by Examination. The amendment changes the procedure for notifying the board about additional education, which has to be complete before an applicant can take the exam for the third or subsequent time. Also allows a PTA to be a tutor under certain circumstances, and adds exam review courses as an option.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no effect on state or local government.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be increased administrative efficiency, and faster processing of reexamination candidates. There will be no effect on small business, and no economic cost to persons having to comply is anticipated.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§329.2.License by Examination.

(a) - (e)

(No change.)

(f)

Re-examination.

(1)

First re-examination. An applicant who fails the exam the first time is eligible to take the examination a second time after submitting a re-exam application and fee.

(2)

Second or subsequent re-examination. An applicant who fails the exam twice or more must complete additional education before taking the exam again. The amount of additional education is set forth in the attached chart. To be eligible to register for the exam again, the applicant must submit a letter that identifies the area(s) of weakness and describes the plan that addresses the weakness(s). The letter must be accompanied by proof that the additional education has been successfully completed. Additional education may be one or more of the following: [ All additional education must be approved by the board before the applicant undertakes it. Additional education may be board-approved continuing education programs or individual tutorials. ]

(A)

A commercial review course. Individual tutorials. A tutor must be a physical therapist licensed in Texas. The tutor and the applicant must develop an outline of study to meet the required number of tutorial hours and submit it to the board office. The board will notify the applicant and the tutor when the outline has been approved. When the applicant has successfully completed the tutorial, the tutor must send the board a notarized statement to that effect.

(B)

An individual tutorial. The completed tutorial must be signed by the tutor and notarized, and include the tutor's curriculum vitae. If the applicant is applying for a PT license, the tutor must be a licensed PT. If the applicant is applying for a PTA license, the tutor must be a licensed PT, or a licensed PTA who is associated with a Texas PTA program. [ Board-approved continuing education. The amount of additional education required is set forth in the following chart. ]

Figure: 22 TAC §329.2 (f)(2)(B)(No change.)

(C)

Board-approved continuing education

(g) - (h)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 8, 2001.

TRD-200102600

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900


22 TAC §329.5

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes amendments to §329.5, concerning Licensing procedures for Foreign-trained Applicants. The amendments will allow an exception to the English language proficiency exam requirement for foreign-trained applicants who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States, and who can prove to the Board's satisfaction that they attended no less than four years of secondary or post-secondary schooling in the United States. The amendments will also allow the board to distinguish between foreign-trained applicants for licensure by exam and by endorsement, so that applicants by endorsement have to prove that they were licensed to practice in the country of education when they received their first U.S. license, and not that they are currently licensed in the country of education. Further, the amendments will remove incorrect references to other rules and procedures, which have been updated, renumbered, or changed; and clarify that applicants must have received a passing grade on coursework required for licensure.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be less delay in the licensure of qualified foreign-trained physical therapists, and increased administrative efficiency. There will be no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Comments on the proposed amendment may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendment is proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amendment.

§329.5.Licensing Procedures for Foreign-trained Applicants.

(a)

The provisions of §329.1 of this title (relating to General Licensing Procedure) apply to foreign-trained applicants [ with the exception of §329.1(a)(1)(A)-(C) ].

(b) - (d)

(No change.)

(e)

After arrival in the United States, the applicant must submit a United States residential address and pay all remaining fees. The residential address must be received before a temporary license may be issued [ the second deadline set for the examination ].

(f) - (g)

(No change.)

(h)

Guidelines for board-approved education credentialing entities.

(1)

The credentialing entity will review all of an applicant's post-secondary professional education credentials earned outside of the United States. The entity will evaluate allowable transfer credit for the 13th year based on recommendations of the National Council on the Evaluation of Educational Credentials or on current published reference materials. The applicant must have completed , with a passing grade of A, B, C, Pass or Credit, 60 semester hours credit or the equivalent in general education courses including courses in biological, social and physical sciences from an accredited institution of higher learning. This requirement may be met by credits earned at U.S. colleges or universities, by College Level Examination Program (CLEP) credits, or Advanced Placement (AP) according to standards of the American Council on Education. The number of credits earned by CLEP or AP may not exceed 12 semester credits.

(2)

The credentialing entity must attest that the institution attended by the applicant has the recognition of the Ministry of Education or the equivalent in that country.

(3)

All foreign-trained applicants must demonstrate the ability to communicate in English by making the minimum score accepted by the board on the following exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), 580 (237 if computer-based test); Test of Written English (TWE), 5.0; Test of Spoken English (TSE), 55. If an applicant makes a score of 50 on the TSE, the board will allow the applicant to submit three original, notarized letters of recommendation from individuals who have practical knowledge of the applicant's ability to communicate successfully in spoken English. Individuals who provide this written testimony must be native English speakers, cannot be related by blood or marriage to the applicant, and at least one of the letters must be from a PT licensed to practice in Texas. These letters must be submitted by their authors directly to the board. At the board's discretion, the letters may be considered satisfactory evidence of proficiency in spoken English. The Board may grant an exception to the English language proficiency exams to an applicant who submits satisfactory proof that he/she is a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States, and has attended 4 or more years of secondary or post-secondary education in the U.S.

(4)

[ Licensing procedures for foreign-trained applicants. ]The credentialing entity must attest that the applicant is or was licensed or [ /registered/ ] authorized to practice in the country in which the entry-level degree in physical therapy was granted. If there is no licensure or authorization in such country, the applicant must be eligible for unrestricted practice there. [ education and training were accomplished if the country has a licensure/registration/authorization system in place. Otherwise, the applicant must be eligible for unrestricted practice in that country. ]

(A)

If the application is by examination, the license or authorization in such country must be in good standing and the licensure current.

(B)

If the application is by endorsement, and the applicant has passed the exam according to Texas standards, the license or other authorization must have been in good standing at the time the license or authorization in such country expired.

(5) - (12)

(No change.)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 8, 2001.

TRD-200102601

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900


Chapter 341. LICENSE RENEWAL

22 TAC §341.1

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes an amendment to §341.1, concerning Requirements for Renewal. The amendment establishes that licensees who are more than 90 days late in renewing a license are not included in the continuing education audit, and must submit documentation of continuing education at time of renewal.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no effect on state or local government.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be increased assurance that PTs and PTAs are meeting the continuing education requirements. There will be no effect on small business, and no economic cost to persons having to comply is anticipated.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§341.1.Requirements for Renewal.

(a)

Biennial renewal. Licensees are required to renew their licenses every two years by the end of the month in which they were originally licensed. A licensee may not provide physical therapy services without a current license or renewal certificate in hand. If a license expires after all required items are submitted, but before the licensee receives the renewal certificate, the licensee may not provide physical therapy services.

(b)

General requirements. The renewal application is not complete until all required items are received by the board. The components required for license renewal are:

(1)

a signed renewal application form, documenting completion of board-approved continuing education (CE), as described in §341.2 of this title, concerning Continuing Education;

(2)

the renewal fee, and any late fees which may be due; and

(3)

a passing score on the jurisprudence examination.

(c)

Notification of license expiration. The board will mail an application to each licensee at least 30 days prior to the license expiration date. The licensee bears the responsibility for ensuring that the license is renewed. Licensees should contact the board if they do not receive a renewal application 30 days prior to the expiration date.

(d)

Late renewal. A renewal application is late if all required items are not postmarked prior to the expiration date of the license. Licensees who do not submit all required items prior to the expiration date are subject to late fees as described.

(1)

If the license has been expired for 90 days or less, the late fee is one-half of the examination fee for the license.

(2)

If the license has been expired for more than 90 days but less than one year, the late fee is equal to the examination fee for the license. Licensees who are more than 90 days late in renewing a license are not included in the audit, and must submit documentation of continuing education at time of renewal.

(3)

If the license has been expired for one year or longer, the person may not renew the license. To obtain a new license, the applicant must take and pass the national examination again and comply with the requirements and procedures for obtaining an original license set by §329.1 of this title (relating to General Licensure Procedure).

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 9, 2001.

TRD-200102610

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900


22 TAC §341.2

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes an amendment to §341.2, concerning Continuing Education Requirements. The amendment establishes that licensees who are more than 90 days late in renewing a license are not included in the continuing education audit, and must submit documentation of continuing education at time of renewal.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no effect on state or local government.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be increased assurance that PTs and PTAs are meeting the continuing education requirements. There will be no effect on small business, and no economic cost to persons having to comply is anticipated.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§341.2.Continuing Education Requirements

(a)

All continuing education (CE) submitted to satisfy renewal requirements must be board-approved, as established in §341.3 of this title, concerning Qualifying Continuing Education.

(b)

Physical therapists must complete a total of 30 hours of CE; Physical therapist assistants must complete a total of 20 hours of CE for each biennial renewal.

(c)

CE taken to fulfill renewal requirements must be taken within the 24 months prior to the license expiration date.

(d)

Effective January 1, 2001, all licensees must take two hours of board-approved courses in ethics and professional responsibility as part of their total CE requirement.

(e)

The executive council will conduct an audit of a random sample of licensees at least quarterly to determine compliance with CE requirements. Failure to maintain accurate documentation, or failure to respond to a request to submit documentation for an audit within 30 days of the date on the request, may result in disciplinary action by the board. Licensees who are more than 90 days late in renewing a license are not included in the audit, and must submit documentation of continuing education at time of renewal. The board or its committees may request proof of CE claimed for renewal purposes at any time from any licensee.

(f)

The licensee must retain original course completion documents or certificates for four years. The documentation for a course must include the name and license number of the licensee, the title, sponsor, date and location of the course, the number of CE units awarded, the signature of an authorized signer, and the course approval number.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 9, 2001.

TRD-200102612

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900


22 TAC §341.8

The Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners proposes amendments to §341.8, concerning Inactive status. These amendments establish the requirement that licensees complete and pass the jurisprudence exam when going inactive and renewing the inactive status, and that the continuing education required is subject to the Board's CE audit.

John P. Maline, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Examiners, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no effect on state or local government.

Mr. Maline also has determined that for each year of the first five years the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be that licensees returning to active practice will be familiar with the Board's rules and will have continued to take continuing education courses on a regular basis. There will be no effect on small business, and no economic cost to persons having to comply is anticipated.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Nina Hurter, PT Coordinator, Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, 333 Guadalupe, Suite 2-510, Austin, Texas 78701; email: nhurter@mail.capnet.state.tx.us.

The amendments are proposed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act, Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code, which provides the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners with the authority to adopt rules consistent with this Act to carry out its duties in administering this Act.

Title 3, Subtitle H, Chapter 453, Occupations Code is affected by this amended section.

§341.8.Inactive Status.

(a)

Inactive status indicates the voluntary termination of the right or privilege to practice physical therapy in Texas. The Board may allow a licensee who is not actively engaged in the practice of physical therapy in Texas to inactivate the license instead of renewing it at time of renewal. A licensee may remain on inactive status for no more than six consecutive years.

(b)

Requirements for initiation of inactive status. The components required to put a license on inactive status are:

(1)

a signed renewal application form, documenting completion of board-approved continuing education (CE) for the current renewal period, as described in §341.2 of this title, concerning Continuing Education; [ and ]

(2)

the inactive fee, and any late fees which may be due ; and [ . ]

(3)

a passing score on the jurisprudence exam.

(c)

Requirements for renewal of inactive status. An inactive licensee must renew the inactive status every two years. The components required to maintain the inactive status are:

(1)

a signed renewal application form, documenting completion of board-approved continuing education (CE) for the current renewal period, as described in §341.2 of this title, concerning Continuing Education; [ and ]

(2)

the inactive renewal fee, and any late fees which may be due ; and [ . ]

(3)

a passing score on the jurisprudence exam.

(d)

Requirements for reinstatement of active status. A licensee on inactive status may request a return to active status at any time. After the licensee has submitted a complete application for reinstatement, the board will send a renewal certificate for the remainder of the current renewal period to the licensee.

(1)

The components required to return to active status are:

(A)

a signed renewal application form, documenting completion of board-approved continuing education (CE) for the current renewal period, as described in §341.2 of this title, concerning Continuing Education;

(B)

the renewal fee, and any late fees which may be due; and

(C)

a passing score on the jurisprudence exam.

(2)

The Board will allow the licensee to substitute one of the following actions for the continuing education requirements:

(A)

re-take and pass the national licensure exam;

(B)

attend a university review course pre-approved by the board; or

(C)

complete an internship (equal to 150 hours of continuing education) pre-approved by the board.

(e)

Licensees on inactive status are subject to the audit of continuing education as described in §341.2 of this title, concerning Continuing Education Requirements.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on May 9, 2001.

TRD-200102611

John P. Maline

Executive Director, Executive Council of Physical Therapy Examiners

Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Earliest possible date of adoption: June 24, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 305-6900