The Education for the Handicapped Amendments of 1986 (P.L. 99-457) includes two new programs: pre-school special education and related services, including occupational therapy, for ages 3–5 and early intervention services for infants and toddlers birth to age 3, in which occupational therapy is identified as a primary service. The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986 (P.L. 99-509) establishes separate coverage for occupational therapy as a distinct Medicare Part B benefit and OTs as private practitioners, as well as expands Part B availability to skilled nursing facilities and rehabilitation agencies, and establishes a $500 cap for private practitioners in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology.  An autonomous American Occupational Therapy Certification Board is created to separate AOTA membership from certification; OTR and COTA certification-related activities become AOTCB’s responsibility. AOTA establishes the COTA Advisory Committee to AOTA’s Executive Board. Martha Kirkland is hired as AOTF’s first Executive Director.