A significant step forward for physical therapy in New York was taken during the Senate Standing Committee on Higher Education meeting on March 4, 2025. The committee approved a bill that allows licensed physical therapist assistants to perform patient-related activities under the supervision of licensed physical therapists. This move aims to create parity with occupational therapists, who already have similar provisions in place. The bill received strong support, including a memo from the American Physical Therapy Association, with no opposition noted. If passed by the full Senate, the law will take effect one year after its enactment.

In addition to the physical therapy bill, the committee also discussed Senate Bill 5275, which would permit licensed athletic trainers from other jurisdictions to provide services to visiting athletes and performing arts groups. This bill also moved forward without any memos of support or opposition.

Another notable discussion centered on Senate Bill 5392, which seeks to allow not-for-profit corporations to engage in engineering for conservation efforts in New York. While the bill garnered support from organizations like Ducks Unlimited and the Sierra Club, it faced opposition from professional engineering groups. The committee confirmed that any engineering work would still require licensed professionals in New York State, ensuring that standards are maintained.

These legislative efforts reflect a broader commitment to enhancing professional practices in health and environmental sectors, with anticipated benefits for both practitioners and the communities they serve.