The proposed bill establishes the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact in Arkansas, aimed at enhancing access to medical services while ensuring patient safety. It introduces a new subchapter to Arkansas Code Title 17, Chapter 105, which facilitates the mutual recognition of physician assistant (PA) licenses among participating states. This allows PAs to practice across state lines without obtaining additional licenses, provided they meet specific qualifications, such as holding a current license, passing a national exam, and undergoing a criminal background check. The bill also outlines the authority of state licensing boards to impose disciplinary actions and manage complaints against PAs, thereby streamlining the licensure process and improving medical service delivery.

Additionally, the bill establishes a PA Licensure Compact Commission, which will oversee the regulation of PAs across participating states. The Commission will conduct joint investigations, manage the deactivation of Compact Privileges for PAs facing adverse actions, and create bylaws and a code of ethics. It emphasizes transparency by requiring public meetings and detailed record-keeping. The bill also introduces amendments regarding the Executive Committee's operations, including provisions for qualified immunity for Commission members and employees. Furthermore, it mandates the development of a coordinated data and reporting system for PAs, outlines the process for challenging revisions to the Compact, and details the consequences for states that default on their obligations. The Arkansas State Medical Board will serve as the Compact administrator, responsible for implementing initial rules by a specified deadline.