HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 117

(By Delegates Martin, Ashley, Caputo, DeLong and Morgan)
Requesting that the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study inclusion of athletic trainer licensure and regulation under the laws governing the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapists or other relevant licensing boards.

Whereas, The board regulating the profession of Physical Therapy is charged with protecting the public health, safety and welfare, and to ensure availability of licensed and accredited physical therapist services to the citizens of West Virginia; and
Whereas, Through preparation in both academic education and clinical experience, athletic trainers are part of the health care system associated with physical activity and sports; and
Whereas, The physical therapy and athletic training professions frequently collaborate to provide a variety of services, including injury prevention, assessment, immediate care, treatment, and rehabilitation after physical injury or trauma; and
Whereas, The Legislature is committed to protecting the public through the licensure and regulation of professions and occupations in this state; and
Whereas, The framework and statutes governing relevant licensing boards will require modification to effectuate the licensure and regulation of the athletic training profession; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to authorize a study that identifies the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the Regular Session of the Legislature, 2009, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the legislative expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.