The bill establishes the Dietitian Licensure Compact in Alaska, aimed at facilitating the interstate practice of dietetics and improving public access to dietetic services. It amends AS 08.38.090 by adding a new subsection that mandates the department to implement the Compact under AS 08.38.200. The Compact allows for licensure portability through a Compact Privilege for qualified professionals while preserving the regulatory authority of states. It includes detailed definitions and requirements for participation, such as the need for member states to license and regulate dietetics practice, and outlines the criteria for obtaining a Compact Privilege, which includes holding an unencumbered license in the home state and meeting educational and professional standards.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Dietitian Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the licensure of dietitians across participating states and facilitate joint investigations and compliance sharing. It mandates the creation of a coordinated Data System for maintaining and sharing licensee information and grants the Commission authority to adopt rules and bylaws, collect fees, and conduct financial reviews. The bill emphasizes transparency and accountability, provides for public hearings and comment on proposed rules, and includes provisions for effective dates, withdrawal procedures, and amendments. Notably, it requires criminal background checks for applicants seeking compact privileges as dietitians, with an effective date set for January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
HB0340A, AM HB 340, introduced 02/23/2026: 08.38.090, 08.38.200, 12.62.160, 12.62.400