Sara Peidle MS RD LD EPDA Legislative Chair

Why do we need to modify our current practice act?

 The Current Practice Act for Dietetic Licensure does not have “Scope of Practice”  That means that anyone can practice nutrition in the state of Texas WITHOUT a license  Many states have no licensure at all…  Modification could shut down potentially harmful non-licensed practitioners which would protect the public and YOUR job!

TSBED

 The Texas State Board Examiners of Dietitians (TSBED) meet 1-2 times per year  Discuss complaints against licensed and unlicensed individuals  Periodically hold hearings to address complaints  In the last few years there have been few if any complaints  The only complaints received are against RD, LD professionals!!

What can I do?

 Turn unlicensed individuals practicing in the state of Texas to TSBED  Notify the Texas Dietetic Association Public Policy Panel of any and all instances  Become a licensed professional yourself if you have not already!!

How can I form a complaint?

 Go to http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/plc/plc_complain.shtm

and fill out the complaint form following TSBED’s process  If you would like to remain anonymous please contact a Public Policy Panel Member and a complaint can be made on your behalf.

Stay On Top of Public Policy Issues

 Read the Legislative Platform sent out by TDA  Read ADA Weekly emails for federal information  Attend meet and greets and local meetings with state and federal legislators in your area  Attend the Public Policy Workshop online in the Spring of 2012  Attend Nutrition Day at the Capital in Austin in 2013

Need More Information?

 Contact your local public policy Chair and State Regulatory Specialist Sara Peidle at [email protected]

 Contact your Public Policy Coordinator Jessica Coffee at [email protected]

 Contact your State Policy Specialist Debbie King at [email protected]