Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Pedorthics; provider and facility certification by national entity required, continuing education administrative duties required of Alabama Prosthetics and Orthotics Association

SB 198 replaces Alabama's state licensing requirement for prosthetists, orthotists, and pedorthists with a national certification system. It requires all providers and facilities to hold certification from an approved national entity (like the American Board for Certification) starting October 2026, rather than state board approval. The bill mandates that 50% of required continuing education must be completed through the Alabama Prosthetics and Orthotics Association and authorizes the Association to collect fees into a new certification fund. Violations of the certification requirement carry criminal penalties.