UtahH.B. 1882025 General SessionHouse

Dry Needling Amendments

Sponsored By: Paul A. Cutler (Republican)

Signed by Governor

BusinessOccupational TherapistsPhysical TherapistsOccupational and Professional Licensing

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Occupational therapy can support mental wellness

Since May 7, 2025, Utah occupational therapy includes mental wellness as part of helping people take part in daily activities. Services must stay within occupational therapy's scope. Occupational therapists remain barred from providing mental health therapy as separately defined by state law.

Patients can start therapy without referrals

Since May 7, 2025, Utah patients can start physical or occupational therapy without another health care provider's referral. Licensed therapists can evaluate patients, start treatment, and provide care, including dry needling when authorized. The law does not guarantee insurance coverage or lower out-of-pocket costs.

More dry needling access, with provider fees

Since May 7, 2025, qualified Utah physical and occupational therapists can provide trigger point dry needling. They need an approved course totaling at least 304 hours: 54 hours of in-person instruction and 250 supervised patient-treatment hours. They must file a completion certificate, register with the state licensing division, and meet its other requirements. The division sets course approval and training rules, including training for needling used to improve physical performance or daily activities. It may charge physical therapists registration fees and must charge occupational therapists registration fees.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Paul A. Cutler
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Todd Weiler
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 128 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/7/2025

Senate/ passed 2nd & 3rd readings/ suspension

Yes: 25 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/26/2025

Senate Comm - Favorable Recommendation

Yes: 6 • No: 0

House vote • 2/18/2025

House/ floor amendment

Yes: 0 • No: 0

House vote • 2/18/2025

House/ passed 3rd reading

Yes: 73 • No: 0

House vote • 2/10/2025

House Comm - Substitute Recommendation

Yes: 12 • No: 0