Session Ends without Passage of the Consumer Access to Physical Therapy Bill

Grassroots support and sound evidence moved the Consumer Access Bill forward in the 2006 Minnesota Legislature, but time ran out and the session ended before SF 637 /HF 854 could be heard on the floors of the House and Senate. Support for the bill mounted as the session progressed, yet end-of-session politics left many such bills to die in queue, forcing proponents to begin the process again next session, in 2007.

Considered one of the strongest direct access bills in the country, SF 637/HF 854 moved successfully through two House Health Committees and a Senate Health Committee. Despite fierce opposition from the Minnesota Medical Association (MMA), the Minnesota Chiropractic Association (MCA) and the Minnesota Podiatric Association (MPA) MN APTA was successful in fighting off amendments that would have allowed some access barriers to remain in place.

Opponents are now claiming the bill was defeated – It wasn’t. Instead, the clock ran out on the session before it was brought to the House and Senate floors, a significant distinction. At each of the three hearings where our bill was considered there was very little vocal opposition from legislators, and when the vote was taken there weren’t any “no” votes cast. The growing support for the bill is a good sign for next year.

MN APTA has been complimented by legislators and lobbyists for other groups for our organized and professional approach to the legislative process. A focus on consumers and strong evidence in support of direct access, coupled with effective grassroots activism were the key to moving the bill as far as it did in a short legislative session. Members who contacted their legislators should know that their participation in the process was critical. The bill could not have moved as far as it did without the personal contacts made by constituents providing objective information.

Countless thanks to:
• Everyone who recruited letters and calls in support from physicians, chiropractors, podiatrists, and consumers.
• Everyone who made calls to legislators and attended hearings in support of the bill.
• The chapter’s UDA workgroup for their infinite optimism, and boundless energy.
• The MN APTA Board of Directors for their support and involvement.
• Alan Schultz for his illustrative testimony as a healthcare consumer (patient).
• Dr. Bill Roberts, MD, for his expert testimony and persuasive arguments.
• Our lobbyists, Randy Morris and Sarah Psick for their patience, advice and direction.

The Consumer Access workgroup is already analyzing last session and planning for next year. Between now and the start of the 2007 legislative session an important election will take place. Your active involvement in someone’s campaign this fall will be a strong message of your commitment to direct access and could position you to help build even more support for our bill next year. Consumer access enjoyed bi-partisan support, so candidates on both sides of the aisle are likely to appreciate your help getting elected.