The proposed bill, SB101, seeks to establish the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact in Arkansas, 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 aims to enhance access to medical services while ensuring patient safety through mutual recognition of licenses among participating states. Key provisions include the establishment of a data system for tracking licensees, requirements for criminal background checks, and provisions for military personnel and their spouses to obtain compact privileges based on existing licenses. The bill also outlines the authority of state licensing boards to impose adverse actions against PAs and the process for maintaining compact privileges.

Additionally, the bill establishes a PA Licensure Compact Commission, responsible for regulating PAs across state lines, conducting joint investigations, and managing the deactivation of compact privileges in response to adverse actions. It grants the Commission various powers, including establishing a code of ethics and maintaining financial records, while detailing the financing structure through assessments and fees. The bill introduces amendments that allow the Executive Committee to exercise certain powers during interim periods, mandates public access to meetings, and establishes qualified immunity for Commission members. Furthermore, it outlines a process for challenging revisions to the Compact, addresses consequences for defaulting states, and designates the Arkansas State Medical Board as the Compact administrator, requiring initial rules for implementation by January 1, 2026.