The bill establishes the Dietitian Licensure Compact, which facilitates the interstate practice of dietetics, enhancing public access to dietetics services while preserving state regulatory authority. It allows licensed dietitians who meet uniform requirements to practice across member states without obtaining multiple licenses, thereby reducing administrative burdens and improving public health protections. The compact aims to increase access to dietetics services, support military families, and enhance the exchange of licensure and disciplinary information among states. Key provisions include the compact privilege for licensed dietitians to practice in remote states, requirements for maintaining this privilege, and the handling of adverse actions against licensees.
Additionally, the bill creates the Dietitian Licensure Compact Commission, a joint governmental agency responsible for overseeing the compact's implementation. It outlines the commission's governance structure, powers, and responsibilities, including rulemaking authority and procedures for handling adverse actions against licensees. The commission is tasked with maintaining a coordinated data system for sharing licensure information and ensuring compliance among member states. The bill also includes provisions for oversight, dispute resolution, and enforcement mechanisms, allowing the commission to take legal action against states that default on their obligations and providing a process for states to withdraw from the compact. Importantly, the compact's provisions will not invalidate existing licensure agreements that do not conflict with it, and any conflicting state laws will be superseded by the compact.