The bill SB181 proposes the adoption of the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact as Article 2 of Chapter 27B of Title 34 in the Code of Alabama 1975. This compact aims to facilitate the interstate practice of respiratory therapy, allowing licensed respiratory therapists to practice across member states while ensuring state regulatory authority to maintain public health and safety. The bill introduces new legal language that establishes requirements for member states, including enacting a similar compact, licensing respiratory therapists, and participating in a data system. It also outlines the responsibilities of member states regarding the investigation of complaints and adverse actions against licensees, while providing key definitions to clarify the compact's scope.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact Commission, which will oversee the administration of the compact and consist of one commissioner from each member state's respiratory therapy licensing authority. The commission is empowered to adopt rules, conduct meetings, and enforce compliance among member states. Key provisions include the ability to conduct criminal background checks, charge fees for compact privileges, and protect active military members and their spouses from certain fees. The bill also outlines a dispute resolution process, enforcement mechanisms, and the effective date of the compact, which will commence once enacted by the seventh member state. Overall, SB181 aims to enhance the regulatory framework for respiratory therapy while preserving state authority.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-27B-1, 34-27B-14
Engrossed: 34-27B-1, 34-27B-14
Enrolled: 34-27B-1, 34-27B-14