Spring 2026 Advocacy Pulse

OOTA is working to expand our presence even further this year, creating new opportunities to highlight OT in action at the Statehouse. No prior advocacy experience is needed, resources and talking points will be provided to help you feel confident and prepared. Statehouse Day holds a special place for me as it first took shape during my capstone experience with the Association. It has been incredible to watch it grow through the collective efforts of OOTA members. I am always happy to talk with anyone who is curious about getting involved for the first time or returning again this year. You can reach me at ErikaEustaquio@gmail.com or a staff member at OOTAStaff@GPSforGrowth.com

Registration is coming soon. Save the date and consider inviting a colleague or student to be part of our growing movement. See you there!

Advancing OT in Ohio

Copay Fairness Act Update

• The Copay Fairness Act was a recent advocacy win that took effect last year thanks to both in-person meetings with legislators and grassroots outreach from OOTA members! The law ensures that patients are not charged higher co-pays for occupational therapy services than they would pay for a primary care visit. With the law now in effect, we are tracking how it is being applied by health plans.
• If you notice co-pays for OT services not being honored as expected, please share your experience member feedback helps us address issues and advocate more effectively at OOTAStaff@GPSforGrowth.com.

OT Licensure Compact Update

• OT Licensure Compact Update Ohio has reached a major milestone in multistate licensure, becoming one of the first states in the country able to grant OT Compact practice privileges! This means eligible OTs and OTAs who hold an active Ohio license can now apply for authorization to work in other compact states without going through the full additional licensure process. This advancement supports greater flexibility for travel therapy, telehealth, and multistate workforce needs. It also puts Ohio at the forefront as other states continue working toward implementation.
• What does this mean for us practitioners? Practitioners whose primary state of residence is Ohio can begin exploring the application process through CompactConnect if they are interested in practicing in another compact member state. This is an important step forward in increasing mobility and access to occupational therapy services across state lines.
• For further details, please visit: https://otcompact.gov/before-you-apply/

Medicaid School Program (MSP) Expansion

• Beginning January 1, 2026, Ohio expanded the Medicaid School Program to allow reimbursement for more services provided to Medicaid-eligible students through their IEP or plan of care. With most Ohio school districts already participating, this change strengthens funding for school-based OT and improves access to supports that help students succeed in the classroom. OOTA is monitoring how implementation will affect practitioners and services.
• For further details, please visit: https://medicaid.ohio.gov/families-and-individuals/citizen-programs-and-initiatives/msp

Orthotics & Prosthetics Coverage (HB 564)

• This bill would help ensure that individuals who rely on prosthetic or orthotic devices have more consistent insurance coverage and are not denied care based on disability. By improving access to equipment that supports mobility, independence, and participation in daily life, the legislation aligns closely with occupational therapy’s focus on function and quality of life. OOTA is monitoring the bill and reviewing the language to ensure occupational therapy practitioners are appropriately included.