Pros:

I appreciate that this proposed regulatory change would make it easier for occupational therapists to keep their licenses active, especially for those who have taken time away from work for important personal reasons such as parental, family, or medical leave. Allowing for a break of up to two years without losing active license status supports work-life balance and makes it easier for qualified practitioners to return to the field.

Cons/Considerations:

However, I have some concerns about the lack of a requirement for recent active practice when renewing a license. Without any limit on how long someone can be away from practice and still maintain an active license, there’s a risk that individuals may return to work after many years without recent experience or oversight. Given how quickly healthcare practices can change, I encourage the inclusion of additional safeguards, such as reentry requirements or updated competency checks, to help ensure all returning practitioners are well-prepared to provide safe, effective care.