OTAC Hill Day 2026: Advocacy Wins—and the Work Ahead—at the Capitol

OTAC members, students, and leaders gathered at the Colorado State Capitol on April 7 for a highly successful OTAC Hill Day—an energizing afternoon focused on advocacy, connection, and reinforcing the essential role occupational therapy plays in Colorado’s healthcare system.

The event brought together occupational therapy practitioners, OT and OTA students, faculty, OTAC leaders, and lobbyists to strengthen advocacy skills and build relationships with legislators. Participants gained practical insight during a “Legislative Process 101” session, which reviewed how bills move through the Colorado General Assembly and where professional associations can influence outcomes. The recently passed Dry Needling by Occupational Therapists legislation served as a timely, real‑world example of how coordinated advocacy, clinician input, and long‑term relationship‑building can translate into meaningful policy change for the profession.

A highlight of Hill Day was the opportunity to engage directly with state legislators, including Representatives Ferret and Bradley, and Senators Matt Ball and Kyle Mullica. Legislators shared perspectives on healthcare priorities, effective advocacy strategies, and the importance of hearing directly from clinicians and students. These conversations reinforced that occupational therapists are trusted partners in shaping policy that impacts patient access and quality of care.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees celebrated recent advocacy successes made possible by OTAC members across Colorado. In addition to the successful passage of the Dry Needling bill, OTAC advocacy efforts also helped preserve access to equine‑assisted therapy services, protecting an important intervention for many clients. These wins underscored the impact of persistent, thoughtful advocacy over time.

At the same time, Hill Day emphasized that advocacy remains more important than ever. Legislators and OTAC leaders addressed the reality of significant proposed Medicaid cuts, which pose serious risks to patient access, reimbursement, and the sustainability of occupational therapy services across the state. Protecting these services will require continued advocacy, strong relationships with policymakers, and active engagement from occupational therapy practitioners and students.

Networking throughout the afternoon connected participants across practice settings, geographic regions, and career stages, reinforcing the strength and unity of Colorado’s occupational therapy community.

Hill Day closed with clear next steps for staying involved—following up with legislators, preparing for upcoming Medicaid discussions, and participating in future advocacy opportunities, including town halls and committee involvement. Participants left informed, energized, and unified in both celebrating recent wins and committing to the work ahead.

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make OTAC Hill Day 2026 such a success. Together, we will continue to protect access, advance practice, and advocate for the vital role of occupational therapy for patients and communities across Colorado.