The bill establishes the Rural Health Transformation Program and introduces significant amendments to the regulation of healthcare professionals, particularly focusing on physician assistants (PAs) and the creation of interstate compacts for medical licensure. It mandates the inclusion of a licensed physician assistant on the State Medical Board and introduces the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact and the PA Licensure Compact, which aim to streamline the licensing process for medical professionals across state lines. The bill also outlines the scope of practice for PAs, allowing them to perform various medical services without a collaborative agreement with a physician under certain conditions. Additionally, it requires applicants for expedited licenses to undergo criminal background checks and sets qualifications for PA applicants, including proof of graduation from accredited programs.

Furthermore, the bill establishes the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact and the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, facilitating the practice of telepsychology and the mobility of EMS personnel across state lines. It includes provisions for expedited licensure for veterans and active military service members, and outlines the responsibilities of the respective commissions overseeing these compacts, including rulemaking, compliance enforcement, and financial management. The bill emphasizes the importance of patient safety and accountability while enhancing healthcare access, particularly in rural areas, and establishes a Rural Health Transformation Program Advisory Council to oversee the program's implementation and grant distribution.

Statutes affected:
SB0281A, AM SB 281, introduced 03/25/2026: 08.64.010, 08.64.107, 08.64.101, 08.64.364, 17.30.200, 08.64.253, 08.64.254, 08.64.106, 18.08.089, 08.64.370, U.S.C, 08.64.190, 12.62.160, 12.62.400, 08.64.200, 08.64.230, 08.64.206, 08.64.255, 08.64.250, 08.64.205, 08.64.209, 08.64.270, 08.64.225, 08.64.275, 08.64.279, 08.64.312, 08.64.315, 08.01.065, 08.64.326, 18.16.010, 09.55.535, 08.64.363, 08.64.334, 08.64.336, 44.62.310, 18.23.030, 08.64.360, 08.02.130, 08.64.380, 08.86.070, 08.86.225, 08.86.130, 08.86.140, 08.86.150, 11.71.900, 13.52.390, 18.08.082, 18.08.105, 21.07.010, 23.30.395, 23.30.095, 33.30.901, 47.30.915, 08.68.850, 39.20.180, 44.29.420, 44.29.430, 44.29.410, 44.29.450, 44.29.440, 08.64.170