1. Sara Peidle MS RD LD EPDA Legislative Chair

2. 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!

3. 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!!

4. 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!!

5. How can I form a complaint? Go to http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/plc/plc_complain.shtm 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.

6. 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

7. Need More Information? Contact your local public policy Chair and State Regulatory Specialist Sara Peidle at slpeidle@yahoo.com slpeidle@yahoo.com Contact your Public Policy Coordinator Jessica Coffee at jessicajulstedcoffee@gmail.comjessicajulstedcoffee@gmail.com Contact your State Policy Specialist Debbie King at dlkingrd@gmail.com dlkingrd@gmail.com