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Committee advances bill to extend salary supplement to certified occupational therapy assistants
Summary
HB 361 would make certified occupational therapy assistants eligible for an existing salary supplement (6%) to help retain nationally certified practitioners in schools; DOE clarified how the code currently distinguishes 12% and 6% categories and asked to coordinate certification language with stakeholders before final drafting.
Representative Moore presented HB 361 to extend an existing salary supplement to certified occupational therapy assistants, saying it would support retention and continuity of care for students with disabilities. "House Bill 361 ensures that certified occupational therapist assistants are eligible for the same salary, 6% salary supplement currently provided to other nationally certified school based specialists," Moore said.
Lisa Henry of the Department of Education told the committee that the relevant section of Title 14 contains both 12% and 6% supplement categories and that the bill aims to place certified occupational therapy assistants within the 6% category. She and committee members recommended additional coordination with DSCA, the Speaker's office and stakeholder groups to clarify the certification and licensing language and ensure coverage of all relevant job titles.
Several nationally certified occupational therapy assistants testified in support, describing the work they do in schools, the importance of continuity, and turnover pressures when clinicians leave for higher-paying health care settings. Ashley Ortiz (Seaford School District), Brianna Schumann, and Amber West said the supplement would help retain experienced practitioners and improve student outcomes.
The committee voted to release HB 361, with members directing sponsors to continue stakeholder engagement and refine statutory language before floor consideration.
