The California Board of Occupational Therapy (CBOT) is moving towards a significant shift in professional development requirements for occupational therapists, focusing on continuing education rather than traditional examinations. During a recent meeting on March 7, 2025, board members discussed the potential implementation of a continuing education requirement that emphasizes understanding laws and regulations governing occupational therapy practice.

The board's discussions highlighted the need for practitioners to stay informed about evolving laws, with many members expressing concern that current practitioners often lack a comprehensive understanding of legal requirements. A proposal emerged to replace the existing examination model with a continuing education framework, which would allow therapists to engage in ongoing learning rather than a one-time test. This approach aims to enhance awareness and compliance with legal standards over time.

Several board members supported the idea of integrating a jurisprudence component into continuing education, suggesting that this could serve as a more practical and cost-effective solution. The board also considered the possibility of requiring an attestation, where practitioners would confirm their understanding of the laws, as a temporary measure until a more structured continuing education program is developed.

The Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC) expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the board to create relevant continuing education courses. OTAC representatives indicated their readiness to facilitate these educational opportunities, whether in-person or online, to ensure that practitioners are well-informed about the legal landscape of their profession.

Public comments during the meeting reinforced the importance of clarity in the proposed continuing education requirements. Stakeholders emphasized the need for specific guidelines on what laws and regulations should be covered, ensuring that all practitioners have a clear understanding of their responsibilities.

As the board moves forward, it will explore the development of a regulatory package that outlines these new continuing education requirements. This initiative represents a proactive step towards enhancing the professional competency of occupational therapists in California, ultimately benefiting both practitioners and the public they serve. The board plans to continue discussions and gather feedback as it works towards implementing these changes in the coming years.