House Bill No. by Representative Spell seeks to establish the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT) by amending R.S. 44:4.1(B)(24) and enacting new provisions under R.S. 37:2354(H) and Part II of Chapter 28 of Title 37 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. The compact aims to facilitate the practice of psychology across state lines, allowing licensed psychologists to provide telepsychology services and temporary in-person services in other compact states. The bill outlines the purpose of the compact, which includes increasing public access to psychological services, enhancing public health and safety, and promoting cooperation among states regarding psychology licensure and regulation. It introduces a fee structure for compact authorization and establishes definitions related to the compact, such as "home state," "telepsychology," and "temporary authorization to practice."

The legislation also creates a framework for the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact Commission, which will oversee the implementation of the compact, including rule promulgation, dispute resolution, and enforcement. It mandates that member states conduct criminal background checks and maintain complaint investigation procedures for psychologists practicing under the compact. The bill outlines the requirements for psychologists to obtain compact privileges, including holding an E.Passport for telepsychology and an Interjurisdictional Practice Certificate (IPC) for temporary in-person practice. Additionally, it establishes a coordinated database for sharing licensure and disciplinary information among compact states and grants the commission authority to adopt rules, manage finances, and ensure compliance, while also providing legal protections for commission members against personal liability.

Statutes affected:
HB486 Original: 44:1(B)(24)