House Bill 327 establishes the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists, creating a framework that facilitates the practice of school psychology across member states. The bill aims to improve access to school psychological services by allowing licensed school psychologists to obtain equivalent licenses in other member states without facing duplicative requirements. Key provisions include the recognition of active military members and their spouses as holding a home state license, the establishment of an Interstate Compact for School Psychologists Commission to oversee implementation, and the requirement for member states to share information and maintain a list of equivalent licenses. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the commission, including rulemaking, dispute resolution, and ensuring accountability among member states.
Additionally, the bill introduces amendments to existing laws regarding the responsibilities and liabilities of licensees within the compact framework. It clarifies that actions taken by commission members must not result from intentional misconduct to be covered under the compact and specifies that the compact does not limit a licensee's liability for professional malpractice. The bill also details the processes for withdrawal from the compact, licensure agreements with nonmember states, and the amendment of the compact itself. It emphasizes compliance, provides mechanisms for dispute resolution, and ensures that if any part of the compact is deemed unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still be valid. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.