The proposed bill establishes the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact in Arkansas, aimed at facilitating the licensing and practice of physician assistants (PAs) across state lines. It introduces a new subchapter to Arkansas Code Title 17, Chapter 105, which outlines the compact's purpose of enhancing access to medical services while ensuring patient safety. Key provisions include mutual recognition of licenses among participating states, the establishment of a data system for tracking licensees, requirements for criminal background checks, and provisions for active-duty military personnel and their spouses to obtain compact privileges based on existing licenses. The bill also delineates the authority of state licensing boards to impose adverse actions against PAs and outlines the process for maintaining compact privileges.

Additionally, the bill creates a PA Licensure Compact Commission to oversee the regulation of PAs across state lines, detailing its structure, membership, and powers, including conducting joint investigations and managing adverse actions. It mandates public transparency in the Commission's operations, requiring open meetings for Executive Committee votes and establishing qualified immunity for Commission members. The bill also emphasizes the development of a coordinated data system for PAs, outlines the rulemaking process with public participation, and details procedures for states to withdraw from the Compact. The Arkansas State Medical Board is designated as the Compact administrator, responsible for implementing necessary rules by January 1, 2026.