Relating to the treatment of a patient by a physical therapist without a referral.

SB 671 changes Texas law to allow physical therapists to treat patients for up to 10 consecutive business days without a referral from a doctor or other healthcare provider, reducing the previous 20-day limit. After this initial period, therapists must obtain a referral to continue treatment. The bill repeals an existing subsection (453.301(a-2)) and requires the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners to adopt implementing rules by December 1, 2025. This law directly affects physical therapists and patients seeking ongoing care, altering the initial treatment window and referral requirements. It takes effect September 1, 2025.